Places
90 places across Tokyo. All verified by people who lived here. No tourist traps.
90 places
Green Thumb Bakery
Coffee ShopOne of our favorite bakeries in Tokyo. It’s a bit out of the way and as with most bakeries the items are best in the morning. There are some nearby parks and playgrounds to sit and enjoy in.
Don't MissThe items vary daily but are all great. My favorite chocolate chip cookie in the city.
Skip It IfYou are on a strict schedule or are just looking for a coffee.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Hedy Daikanyama
Shop / RetailSecond hand designer handbags (Prade, Celine, etc) and jewelry in Daikanyama. Well-edited with fair albeit high prices.
Don't MissThe jewelry selection is good too, don’t miss it just looking at the bags.
Skip It IfYou're on a budget - all the bags are designer and their prices reflect that.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Monkey Cafe
Coffee ShopBeautiful coffee shop with rotating local art exhibitions. I always order to go and then take in the art while my drink is made. There may be a line to sit but you can skip it if you’re getting to-go.
Don't MissThe Hojicha Brown Sugar latte (with an espresso shot) and the local art exhibitions.
Skip It IfYou’ve already had 5 coffees today.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
NUMBER SUGAR Daikanyama
Shop / RetailIndividually wrapped caramel candies in a dozen flavors. Sounds odd, tastes incredible. Perfect to bring back as a gift.
Don't MissThe ginger and salted caramels. Buy a box to take home.
Skip It IfYou don't have a sweet tooth.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Okura
Shop / RetailJapanese indigo-dyed clothing and denim in one of the coolest concept stores you'll walk into anywhere. The upstairs is a bit hidden but is worth checking out as well.
Don't MissBlue blue is my favorite Japanese brand and they have the best selection in the world.
Skip It IfYou are looking for cheaper menswear.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Osteria Urara
RestaurantA unique concept restaurant in a more remote area of Daikanyama. A chalkboard lists their daily incidents and you can ask for pretty much anything that includes them. Heavy menu translation is needed here and be sure to work with the staff.
Don't MissTheir set menu if you want to streamline the process.
Skip It IfYou are uncomfortable with heavy translation.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Siki Daikanyama
Shop / RetailReworked and redyed clothes (by the owner) alongside am awesome ceramics selection. Talk to the staff they are so so nice. You can work with them to have clothing custom dyed.
Don't MissTheir one of a kind reworked pieces.
Skip It IfYou want conventional fashion. This is very much an artist's shop.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Tsutaya Books Daikanyama
ExperienceOne of the best bookstores in the world. Multiple floors across 3 buildings with everything from design/art/fiction/magazines. A must stop.
Don't MissThe local art and fashion magazine selection (Popeye, etc) and stunning cafe upstairs.
Skip It IfYou're in a rush. This requires time.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Utsuwa Marukaku Nanpeidai
Shop / RetailAntique Japanese ceramics on the Daikanyama/Shinsen border. Huge selection, great for gifts with a different stock from the Shinsen location.
Don't MissThe antique selection especially is awesome. Pieces from different eras for all budgets.
Skip It IfYou've already been to the Shinsen location.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
A10
BarTrendy speakeasy record bar with super inventive cocktails. Sit as close to the vinyl wall and DJ as you can. Make a reservation ahead of time if you can.
Don't MissOpen the fake locker door behind locker A10 to enter.
Skip It IfYou don’t want a trendier bar.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Bar Trench
BarRegularly on the top 50 bars in Asia / the world list. Beautiful cocktails, great table snacks, and very cool vibe. Make a res if possible. There is Bar Trench and the larger Bar Trench Annex across the street. We prefer the original but its the same menu and drinks.
Don't MissMy favorite bar snacks in Tokyo. All the cocktails are great.
Skip It IfYou don't want to spend on drinks. There can be a line if you don’t have a reservation.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Ebisu Ramen Kamuro
RestaurantSmall - no frills ramen spot specializing in chicken broth. Order at the vending machine. Pairs great with the Ebisu bars.
Don't MissOur favorite chicken ramen in Tokyo
Skip It IfYou want a more traditional ramen experience.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Spincoaster Music Bar
BarTiny 10-person record bar in Ebisu. Intimate, great sound system, solid drinks and unlimited snacks. A gem if you can get in. Make sure to check hours and consider reaching out on IG. We found they occasionally are closed with no reasoning.
Don't MissTheir house special tequila drinks (less common in Tokyo)
Skip It IfYou want a big night out. This is for a longer hang or an early drink.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Tokyo Photographic Art Museum
ExperiencePhotography only museum just outside of Ebisu in a beautiful building. Exhibitions rotate quarterly so do some advanced research to make sure you like the photographers being shown.
Don't MissThe best photography centric museum in Tokyo.
Skip It IfYou want to see more than just photography.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Endress
Shop / RetailVintage sterling silver jewelry store in Gakudai. Pricey but beautiful, good for a special piece. They also carry vintage but the sterling is the highlight.
Don't MissUnique sterling silver pieces
Skip It IfYou're not in the market for jewelry / looking to splurge.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Issue Vintage
Shop / RetailGreat mens vintage curation with high highs and low lows in Gakudai. Also a great fragrance selection. Pricey but well-curated.
Don't MissThe outerwear - they have great men’s jackets.
Skip It IfYou're on a budget. Prices are on the higher end for vintage.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Matterhorn Bakery
Coffee ShopShowa-era charm with staff in vintage uniforms. Sit down, get a slice of cake and a coffee.
Don't MissOrder and sit at a table. Food is fine but you’re there for the old school vibe.
Skip It IfYou're in a rush. This is a slow old school spot.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Recycle Boutique ABC
Shop / RetailUnassuming second hand store in Gakudai. At first glance its easy to skip but gems found here include a Balmain jacket, Max Mara coat and more.
Don't MissThe hunt - the good stuff is randomly mixed in
Skip It IfYou don't have the patience to sift through inventory.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
TreFacStyle Gakugei-daigaku
Shop / RetailMy favorite second hand store. Always finding designer Japanese brands at huge discounts. Its a chain but this one is where I had the best luck. Highly recommend them all if you find yourself by one though.
Don't MissThe selected brands section for men and women.
Skip It IfYou want a more curated experience and don’t have time to search through a larger store.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Akai Bar
BarChic bar in the very cool K5 hotel that is built into an old bank in the old financial district. Small bar but good cocktails and space.
Don't MissTheir unique highball selection.
Skip It IfYou are looking for an upbeat place for a drink.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Itoya Stationery
Shop / Retail7 stories of pens, journals, stationery, paper goods, stickers. A dream for anyone who loves beautiful office supplies. Budget a full hour minimum.
Don't MissThe pen floor, the paper selection, and the custom journal selection.
Skip It IfStationery doesn't excite you. Otherwise, mandatory.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo
ExperienceOne of the largest art museums in Tokyo. The rotating exhibit’s can vary in quality so do some research ahead of time.
Don't Miss14,000+ modern and contemporary art pieces
Skip It IfYou don’t have time for museums
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Tamai Nihonbashi Main Branch
RestaurantOld school eel rice bowl restaurant. You can choose the preparation and type of eel that you like the most. Can get busy so make a reservation if you can.
Don't MissThe grilled anago meal.
Skip It IfYou don’t like Japanese eel.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Gotokuji Temple (Lucky Cat Shrine)
ExperienceThe famous waving cat shrine on a beautiful temple grounds. Located a short walk from a fun local neighborhood.
Don't MissBuying a small cat figurine at the shrine. Great souvenir that actually means something.
Skip It IfYou've maxed out on temples or don’t have time to go to Gotokuji.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Horos
Shop / RetailColorful funky vintage store in Gotokuji. Unique compared to a lot of the shops in Tokyo. Carries clothes and jewelry.
Don't MissThe bright color selection that is hard to find in Tokyo.
Skip It IfYou shop neutrals only.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Iron Coffee
Coffee ShopIts a 10-15 minute walk from the station to the Gotokuji Temple and the side streets are incredibly peaceful and nice to walk around. Grab a coffee here on for the walk.
Don't MissEthiopian Tariku Natural if they have it
Skip It IfYou're in a rush to get to the temple.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Recycle Tifana
Shop / RetailFun little second hand shop with a cute old lady owner. Great finds especially for women. Located right by Gotokuji station so easy to make a quick stop on the way to the temple.
Don't MissThe Burberry section. Great trench coats at reasonable prices.
Skip It IfYou want menswear. This skews strongly women's.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Conveyor Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera
RestaurantIncredibly high quality sushi in a very casual setting. Order on your tables ipad and it comes out very fast. It has recently gotten quite popular and their can be a long line. Be prepared to take a number and walk around the area.
Don't MissOur favorite a la carte sushi.
Skip It IfYou want omakase / don’t want to wait in line.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Cosme
Shop / RetailThe biggest fancy cosmetics store in Tokyo with international and Japanese brands. Budget cosmetics are also found at local drug stores (including next door).
Don't MissThe local skin care brands that hard to find elsewhere.
Skip It IfYou're not a beauty shopper.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Corner
RestaurantNo frills good vibes lunch spot off a busy road by the Ikejeri Ohashi station. Would be very easy to miss it but has one of the most dependable lunch sets in Tokyo.
Don't MissThe ginger pork set for lunch is a favorite staple of ours.
Skip It IfYou dont want to go Ikejiri Ohashi
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
SiCX
BarKyoto gin distillery’s Tokyo outpost. They have an awesome gin and tonic menu. Ask if Fuji is in (the owners adorable French Bulldog). They also have good happy hour options.
Don't MissObviously the gin drinks but don’t sleep on the karaage
Skip It IfYou don’t prefer gin or want a very upbeat bar.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Yakumo Ramen
RestaurantMy favorite “nicer” ramen in Tokyo. Michelin Guide pork and shrimp wontons. Usually quite crowded with locals so go on slightly off hours or prepare for ~20+ minute wait.
Don't MissGet the full order (I prefer the white broth but both are good)
Skip It IfYou want bold, heavy ramen. This is refined and subtle.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Komiyama Book Store
Shop / RetailMulti-story shop selling everything from vintage magazines to present day art and photography and everything inbetween. Some very cool finds here although it can be a bit NSFW.
Don't MissThe photography and art prints upstairs.
Skip It IfYou are looking for a pure shop. Treat this almost like a gallery.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Pharos Coffee Jimbocho
Coffee ShopFancier coffee shop that makes a great break from all the book and art shops in Jimbocho. Skip the long lines at nearby popular Glitch coffee and come here instead.
Don't MissYou won’t go wrong if you work with barista and tell them what you like.
Skip It IfYou want a no frills cheaper coffee.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Rice Curry Manteen
RestaurantHole in the wall curry spot that is packed with salarymen. There is often a line out the door so be prepared for a short wait. You will likely be the only non-local eating there.
Don't MissMy favorite katsu curry.
Skip It IfYou don’t want to eat at gritty hole in the wall.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Artifex Gallery
Shop / RetailAffordable modern ceramics in Kichijoji that is a good entry point if others feel too pricey or antique feeling. Wide variety of colors and shapes in everyday items.
Don't MissVery functional pieces. Tons of mugs and bowls you'd actually use.
Skip It IfYou want antique pieces. Go to PukuPuku down the street instead.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Inokashira Park
ExperienceBig pond with a beautiful park, adjacent to Kichijoji. Make sure to take a lap if you’re in the neighborhood. Particularly stunning in the fall.
Don't MissA relaxing walk around the lake to get out of the chaos.
Skip It IfIts a dreary winter day. Way better with foliage.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
PukuPuku Ceramics
Shop / RetailAntique Japanese ceramics store in Kichijoji. Great selection from different eras, across different price points. A treasure trove including a large sale section out front.
Don't MissTranslate the sticker on the back of each piece to see what era it's from.
Skip It IfYou're looking for modern ceramics.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Koenji Antique Alley
Shop / RetailA cluster of vintage and antique shops. The main alley can get crowded but some of the best finds are on the side streets.
Don't MissIf you’re willing to venture further Koenji is similar to Shimokitazawa without the same crowds
Skip It IfYou have no interest in vintage or antiques. This is a shopping spot.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Antonic Gin Bar
BarMassive gin selection (200+ types) in a relaxing neighborhood spot. The menu is strictly gin and tonics but the different types of gins and tonics create unique drinks. We don’t even like gin that much and love it here.
Don't MissTalk to the bartender and get a recommendation. The menu is overwhelming on its own.
Skip It IfYou hate gin and won't be persuaded otherwise.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Coverchord
Shop / RetailBeautiful concept store on the river strip. Expensive men’s and women's clothing but inspiring to walk through even if you're just browsing.
Don't MissThe clothes are top of the line but don’t sleep on the ceramics.
Skip It IfBudget is tight. Prices are high but they do have occasional sales.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Kindal Nakameguro
Shop / RetailSecond hand designer chain with mixed results store by store but this is the best one. High prices to go with great curation and occasional great finds.
Don't MissThe large stock of second hand designer (Japanese and Western)
Skip It IfYou want bargains. Prices here reflect the neighborhood.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Oreryu Shio-Ramen
RestaurantDown-and-dirty late night ramen. Perfect after a night out, there are multiple locations across the city but this one is my favorite.
Don't MissThe spicy creamy salt ramen.
Skip It IfYou want elevated fancier broth.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
PLEST Concept shop “TOKYO JUNGLE”
Shop / RetailTiny concept store in a more residential area of Nakameguro. The staff was incredibly friendly and their in house Japanese denim was better than anything at Hinoya.
Don't MissThe best Japanese denim I found in Tokyo.
Skip It IfYou aren’t looking for menswear / denim.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Ramen Jazzy Beats
RestaurantModern elevated ramen with excellent toppings. A big step up from the classic hole-in-the-wall with constant jazz music creating a nice ambiance.
Don't MissThe wonton and chashu ramen
Skip It IfYou want traditional old-school ramen. This is more new-wave.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Schoolbus Coffee
Coffee ShopTrendy, cute light filled coffee shop with great drinks and a relaxing place to hang/work. It can get crowded at peak lunch hour as they also serve light food.
Don't MissCaramel latte. Our favorite coffee shops to work out of.
Skip It IfYou see a line. There’s other great coffee nearby.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Sidewalk Coffee Stand
Coffee ShopSmall coffee shop on the Nakameguro river walk. A must stop if you’re in the area for a matcha or coffee to go.
Don't MissThe matcha drinks and bitter orange espresso if they have it.
Skip It IfYou need somewhere to sit.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Tsukiji Sushiko Takumi
RestaurantGood chain sushi (this location is our favorite) with a traditional and relaxing atmosphere. Easy to walk in for lunch and sit at the sushi counter.
Don't MissThe tuna sampler is a perfect thing to split at lunch
Skip It IfYou want a fancy sushi experience. This is a casual but great chain.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Yakiniku Ushicoco Nakameguro
RestaurantGreat Yakiniku (think KBBQ) in an unassuming Nakameguro location on the 4th floor. They will show you all the various cuts if you ask - order a variety to try and then double down on your favorites.
Don't MissThey are known for their Yukhoe (beef tartare).
Skip It IfYou don’t want your clothes to smell like beef and smoke (from cooking).
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Kappabashi Kitchen Street
Experience100+ kitchen stores on one long street. Endless affordable ceramics, every kind of cooking tool. A ceramic lover's paradise. Budget extra time and luggage space.
Don't MissDengama, Touan Yabukita, Takaso, FU WA RI, and Komatsuya are a few of many worth going into.
Skip It IfYou can't carry fragile things home.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Lobby Bar
BarSwanky beautiful bar on the 31st floor of the Edition Hotel. The drinks are solid (Plum and Yuzu margarita was our favorite) and they also offer an afternoon tea. You’re here for the view and the vibe over the drinks though.
Don't MissThe best view of Tokyo Tower
Skip It IfYou’re looking for a cheaper drink
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
National Photo
Shop / RetailMy go to film lab for my whole time in Tokyo. They do a great job but can take a few days to turn around scans.
Don't MissTheir film dev and scan services.
Skip It IfYou want to bring your negatives home with you and are only in town a few days.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Oi Racecourse Flea Market
Shop / RetailSeasonal weekend only flea market with insane quantity. Some of our favorite finds came from here - easy to spend an entire day and find real gems. This is a half-day commitment if you're serious about it.
Don't MissExploring the largest flea market in Tokyo.
Skip It IfYou only have a few days in Tokyo. It’s amazing but too far out for a casual browse.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Ramen Hirataishu Ajian Gotanda
RestaurantThe heaviest and most garlicky bowl of ramen you will ever eat. The food is amazing and preparation in the kitchen is just as fun. Worth going out of the way if you have time.
Don't MissOrder the special ramen and prepare yourself.
Skip It IfYou are looking for a refined ramen and/or don’t have mints.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
菱田屋酒場
RestaurantIncredibly local and delicious Izakaya with a rotating food and drink menu. Everything is in Japanese so be prepared for some menu translation and nonverbal communication.
Don't MissTry to sit at the counter if you can. Very impressive to watch the chef at work.
Skip It IfYou aren’t willing to feel a bit out of place or don’t want to translate menus
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Bianchi
RestaurantUpscale Thai restaurant on the second floor. Great ambiance especially if you can get a private booth. We loved every dish we had here. Make a reservation if possible.
Don't MissTheir coriander salad and khao soi.
Skip It IfYou only want to eat Japanese food.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Mori Art Museum
ExperienceIncredibly popular (for a reason) contemporary art museum in Roppongi Hills. Get tickets in advance and do some due diligence on the current exhibitions.
Don't MissThe coolest contemporary art museum in the area.
Skip It IfYou don’t have time for a museum stop
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Atsurae Vintage
Shop / RetailOur top vintage pick in Sangenjaya. Great selection of unique items and must stop if you’re in the neighborhood.
Don't MissTheir beautiful color curation
Skip It IfYou don’t have time for Sangenjaya
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Analog Record Bar
BarSlightly hidden record bar on the 3rd floor of an inconspicuous building that makes the perfect first-stop of the evening. No reservations so there can occasionally be a line. Getting more touristy but still an awesome record bar experience with incredible sound.
Don't MissPick out a record and trade your pin to play a song from it. Truffle chips great as well.
Skip It IfYou want a quiet bar. Analog gets loud with the music.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Jomon Yakitori
RestaurantOur favorite yakitori in Tokyo - try to make a res if you can.
Don't MissSit upstairs in the sunken tables (shoes off). Order everything. The atmosphere is as good as the food.
Skip It IfYou can't get a reservation and don't want to risk a walk-in wait.
Verified by Jeremy (lived in Tokyo 6 years)
S Spiral
RestaurantSeafood focused Japanese with an Italian flair. Smaller quieter restaurant so reservations are recommended. Try to sit at the chef’s counter if possible.
Don't MissThe shrimp toast. Non-negotiable.
Skip It IfYou want a lively upbeat restaurant. This is a cozier spot.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
SG Club
BarSerious cocktail bar in Shibuya that Sip and Guzzle in NYC is the follow up to. One of the best and most popular in the city, needs a reservation. Can feel very crowded.
Don't MissTheir incredibly inventive cocktails (Parmesan sour especially)
Skip It IfYou didn't book ahead. It will fill up quickly.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
SG Low
RestaurantHidden-entrance spot (go to the nondescript door on the second floor) with excellent food and energy. Getting more tourist attention but still very good. Reservation is required.
Don't MissTheir wagyu and karaage.
Skip It IfYou hate the idea of an 'Instagram-discovered' spot.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Shibuya Oiran
BarDive bar in central Shibuya that often has a DJ upstairs on the weekend. We prefer to sit downstairs at the big open windows to people watch and hang out with friends.
Don't MissGood lemon sours and people watching.
Skip It IfYou want a fancier cocktail bar, this is more of a dive bar.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Big Time
Shop / RetailOne of our top women’s vintage pick in Shimokitazawa. Well stocked with belts, bags, cute clothes in fun colors.
Don't MissThe belts and bags selection.
Skip It IfYou're shopping for menswear.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Little Trip to Heaven
Shop / RetailDresses, tops, and accessories with an eccentric feminine feel. One of the better women’s vintage stops in Shimokitazawa.
Don't MissThe vintage dress and sweater selection.
Skip It IfYou're looking for Y2K leaning vintage.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Coffee Swamp
Coffee ShopHip coffee shop hidden in the alleys west of Shinjuku station. Great coffee and records playing. If you can get a seat its the perfect reprieve from the chaos of Shinjuku.
Don't MissGreat vinyl being played and our favorite coffee in Shinjuku.
Skip It IfYou don’t want to wait in line - it can get crowded.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Lemon-Sha Shinjuku Store
Shop / RetailCamera store with a massive selection of used film cameras. There are a bunch of great camera stores in this area so wander around.
Don't MissThe used film cameras.
Skip It IfYou have no interest in photography.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Omoide Yokocho
BarA narrow alley of tiny yakitori stalls behind Shinjuku station.
Don't MissSit at any counter that has a free stool. Order yakitori and a beer. The atmosphere is the point.
Skip It IfYou want a quiet, local experience. This is touristy but worth doing once if you’re in the area at night.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Sushiro
RestaurantFun conveyor belt chain sushi. Inexpensive, essentially all-you-can-eat. They’re throughout the city but this one is our favorite. There can be a line so put your name in ahead online.
Don't MissPlaying the games on the screen at your booth.
Skip It IfYou want a traditional sushi experience.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
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)
Camelback Coffee
Coffee ShopA Tomigaya neighborhood staple that became a regular stop for us. The staff is incredibly friendly. It’s to go only and a bit trendy so there can occasionally be a small line.
Don't MissThe egg omelet sandwich is super unique and tasty - get it with their iced coffee.
Skip It IfYou are looking for a place to sit and relax.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Kakan Tomigaya
RestaurantBest Mapo Tofu in Tokyo. A great lunch set that comes a ton of food. They don’t take reservations so put your name on the list and walk around Tomigaya.
Don't MissGet the minced pork rice addition to the mapo tofu set if you’re hungry.
Skip It IfYou don’t want to wait in line or only want to eat Japanese food
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Onigily Cafe
RestaurantQuick onigiri snack stop on the Tomigaya walking street. They have great lunch sets as well and the food is better to stay than to go.
Don't MissThe fried chicken onigiri.
Skip It IfYou're looking for a nicer sit down meal.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Senrigan Ramen
RestaurantThe heaviest and thickest ramen (in the best way). Its an incredibly local spot. I have no idea how salarymen eat this and go back to work.
Don't MissThe pork back fat ramen
Skip It IfYou want something light - this may put you to bed.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Shibuya Publishing & Booksellers
Shop / RetailA charming little (mostly Japanese) book and trinket store on the Tomigaya strip. Great for a browse and an interesting souvenir.
Don't MissThe small trinkets and Japan-specific books you won't find elsewhere.
Skip It IfYou're maxed out on shopping.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Style Department
Shop / RetailMenswear and jewelry store on the Tomigaya walking street that brings together some of Tokyo’s coolest brands. Also stocks unique perfume brands.
Don't MissSome of the best curated menswear in Tokyo - Still by Hand especially has great items.
Skip It IfYou're not into menswear or you’re looking for affordable options.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Tonkatsu Tsukiuma
RestaurantOur favorite katsu in Tokyo. It’s heavy but worth it if you’re in the area for a great lunch. Get the green onion salt on the side and ask to grind sesame seeds on the side for the full experience.
Don't MissNumber 1 or Number 4 Super Deluxe depending how hungry you are
Skip It IfYou don't like pork. (Why are you in Tokyo?)
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Yoyogi Park
ExperienceBeautiful park that sits between Tomigaya and Harajuku. Walking between the two and adding in Meiji Jingu shrine makes for a great half day excursion.
Don't MissThe fall foliage. This is a must in late Oct to early Nov.
Skip It IfYou are there on a day with bad weather.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Hinoya
Shop / RetailPopular Japanese denim dealer that carries all of the most popular brands. Work with the staff as they will help you find the best pair for you. Same day tailoring is offered for free.
Don't MissBig John denim was my favorite brand here.
Skip It IfYou are shopping for anything besides Japanese denim.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Ella Records
Shop / RetailCute record store on a fun street in north Yoyogi-Uehara. The staff is very friendly and will help you find something cool.
Don't MissGreat collection of City Pop records
Skip It IfNot worth going out of your way if you aren’t already in the neighborhood.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Igor Cozy
RestaurantUpscale but approachable izakaya. Lots to sample, often with a mix of tourists and local customers. Consistently excellent but we recommend a reservation.
Don't MissOrder widely and out of your comfort zone. We love the shumai and handroll.
Skip It IfYou don’t want to go to Yoyogi-Uehara (there’s another location in Shibuya)
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Nadoya No Katte
Coffee ShopWell designed coffee space with a traditional zen feel. Worth getting the coffee to stay and sitting outside on a nice day.
Don't MissTalk with the barista and figure out the perfect cup for you
Skip It IfYou want simple or cheap coffee
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Wineshop Flow
BarNatural wine bar that draws people from around Tokyo for their vast bottle selection with great music. A bit hidden downstairs.
Don't MissTheir unique natural wine selection
Skip It IfYou don’t like natural wine
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)