Shinsen
A Passed Over Gem
We lived right outside of Shinsen and love it here. A quaint little walking street sits between Shibuya and the Daikanyama/Nakameguro corridor. You're in a real residential neighborhood but with excellent food and bars. The winding walk from here to Shibuya station passes everything you need.
Stay here if
You want to be adjacent to Shibuya without being IN Shibuya
Skip It If
You’d rather stay directly in Shibuya.
Top Picks
Explore all places in Shinsen →All Places in Shinsen
ANDS
RestaurantJapanese-Italian local spot a bit hidden in Shinsen. Rotating menu with inventive Japanese inspired pastas. It’s a small place and can get a bit cramped so be prepared for that.
Don't MissThe dashi tomato and buratta cut tableside.
Skip It IfYou’re in a rush - the staff is so nice but it can take a while.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Kari Kari Spice
RestaurantTiny spot with some amazing curry rice dishes. Chef counter seating only. Chat with the chef, she’s a sweet former nutritionist now making amazing curry! Also fun craft beer options.
Don't MissThe combo curry of her daily specials.
Skip It IfYou want heavy, traditional curry. This is lighter and more unique.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Kitchen Hasegawa
RestaurantOur most frequented lunch spot. Japanese-Western style food specializing in amazing lunch sets. There is almost always a ~10-15 minute line, but it’s always worth it.
Don't MissSay 'full set' to get the soup, salad and ice cream. They are known for their hamburg steak but the garlic butter chicken is my favorite.
Skip It IfYou're in a rush. There's usually a line, though food comes out fast.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Lucky Alexander China
RestaurantOur favorite Chinese in central Tokyo and one of our most visited restaurants overall. Occasionally can get very busy so make a reservation if possible.
Don't MissGyoza, cucumber salad, spicy fried chicken and cashews.
Skip It IfYou don’t like dumplings or want to eat only Japanese food.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Misawa Soba
RestaurantStanding-only soba made by a super old and cute grandma. They will be happy to have you but you will get some looks as it is very locals only. The ordering process is a bit complicated so watch someone go through it or let them help you.
Don't MissGet the soba with extra meat and whatever fried side looks good.
Skip It IfYou need to sit down or hate feeling out of place.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Neo Natural Wine Bar
BarStanding-only natural wine bar with excellent food. The staff has told us the best time to go is 4-5 pm. We loved grabbing a drink and appetizer here before dinner.
Don't MissGo early (4-5pm) before it fills up. The food is as good as the wine.
Skip It IfYou're arriving after 7pm on a weekend. It will be difficult to get in.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Utsuwa Marukaku
Shop / RetailThe best ceramics store in Tokyo. Tons of unique pieces, great space, and some antique stock too. Worth a stop especially if you want a nicer gift.
Don't MissStunning ceramics from contemporary ceramists.
Skip It IfYou can't carry fragile things home. (Buy them anyway and pack carefully.)
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)