In this article you will know in detail what to eat in Tokyo, as Japan has a very rich and diverse gastronomic culture, but we will focus on a top 10 typical dishes of Tokyo and add some extra.
Tokyo Gastronomy (What to eat in Tokyo)
Japan is a country that is internationally recognized for its rich culture full of traditions and, among them, stands out its varied and appetizing gastronomy in Tokyo, among other cities.
Although there are many Japanese food restaurants in different countries, many of them offer modified versions of what is true traditional Japanese food and Tokyo gastronomy.
Therefore, the best way to enjoy the authentic gastronomy of Tokyo is to visit the Nippon country. And undoubtedly, one of the cities with the greatest culinary diversity is its capital, Tokyo, where you can find delicious dishes in every corner, that is why below we will introduce you to the typical dishes of Tokyo.
What to eat in Tokyo (Typical japanese dishes) – Gastronomy of Tokyo
If you are traveling in Japan and have arrived or are in the capital, you are probably wondering what to eat in Tokyo or where to find good food, as there are many options available all over the place.
In the capital, you can find luxury restaurants with Michelin stars, but you don’t need to go to one of them and therefore spend a lot of money to try the typical dishes of Tokyo, as you can find them for less than 2000 yen.
Sushi is one of the best-known Japanese dishes in the world, and although it can be eaten in Tokyo, along with the 28 types of sushi that exist, there are many more options to choose from when it comes to typical Tokyo dishes.
So without further ado, in this article we share with you a list of the Top 10 typical dishes of Tokyo that you should not miss if you travel to this great city.
1. Onigiri (What to eat in Tokyo) – Typical japanese dishes
Onigiri is a traditional food in Tokyo and throughout Japan, which has been popular for centuries.
Onigiri is a steamed rice ball rolled with hands and stuffed with various ingredients such as smoked salmon, seaweed, pork, among others. It is an easy to carry and very versatile food, which is why it is considered a popular meal among the Japanese and is a great meal if you don’t know what to eat in Tokyo, it is easy and quick to eat.
Where to find Onigiri one of the typical dishes of Tokyo
Onigiri can be found in almost any convenience store or supermarket in Japan, as well as in specialized restaurants called “onigiri-ya”. They can also be purchased at fast food establishments, where the filling and shape of the onigiri can be customized.
Onigiri is usually eaten as a quick meal or snack, but can also be enjoyed as a full meal if accompanied with other Japanese dishes such as soup or salads. In addition, it can also be enjoyed as an appetizer before a traditional Japanese dinner.
How to prepare onigiri at home – Traditional Tokyo food
The preparation of onigiri is quite simple, it consists of steamed rice that is kneaded with the hands, then the filling is added and formed into a ball. A specific mold can also be used to shape the onigiri.
Onigiri is a very versatile and popular food in Japan, as it can be customized with different fillings and is easy to take anywhere. It is a traditional Japanese food that has been valued for centuries and remains a popular choice among Japanese people today.
2. Karaage (What to eat in Tokyo) – Typical japanese dishes
Karaage is a traditional Japanese dish and one of the typical dishes in Tokyo, consisting of fried chicken pieces.
The chicken is marinated in a mixture of seasonings and flour before being fried, which gives it a delicious, crispy flavor. It is a popular food in Japan and can be found in a variety of places, from specialty restaurants to fast food stores and convenience stores.
Karaage became popular in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868) and has become a classic Japanese food. The marinade used in Karaage varies according to the region of Japan, but commonly consists of ingredients such as soy, sake, mirin, ginger and garlic.
How to eat Karaage one of the typical dishes of Tokyo
Karaage is usually served as a side dish with rice or as a quick meal. It can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or in a bento (take-out box). It is a popular meal among the Japanese due to its delicious taste and versatility.
How to prepare Karaage at home – Typical Tokyo Food
Karaage is very easy to prepare at home, it can be cooked in a frying pan with hot oil or in a deep fryer. The key to getting the perfect flavor is to marinate the chicken long enough to absorb the flavors of the marinade, and make sure the oil is hot before frying the chicken.
In short, Karaage is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of fried chicken pieces marinated with a variety of seasonings.
3. Shogayaki (What to eat in Tokyo) – Typical japanese dishes
Shogayaki is one of the typical dishes of Tokyo and one of the best options if you do not know what to eat in Tokyo.
Shogayaki consists of grilled pork seasoned with a mixture of ginger, sake, mirin and soy.
The dish originated in Hiroshima prefecture, but has gained popularity throughout Japan and especially in Tokyo. The name “shogayaki” comes from the words “shoga” meaning ginger and “yaki” meaning grilled or roasted.
The pork used for shogayaki is usually the loin or steaks, as these parts are tender and have a good flavor. The meat is sliced thinly and marinated in the seasoning mixture before grilling or pan-frying.
How to eat shogayaki – Traditional food in Tokyo
Shogayaki is usually served with rice and can be accompanied with vegetables such as onion or cucumber. It is also common to serve it with a spoonful of mustard or a slightly spicy soy sauce to give it a little extra flavor.
Shogayaki is a popular meal among the Japanese, due to its delicious taste and simplicity. It is an easy meal to prepare at home and can be found in a variety of Japanese restaurants, especially in Hiroshima prefecture and central Tokyo.
4. Ramen (What to eat in Tokyo) – Typical japanese dishes
Imagine one day walking around the capital, and suddenly you get hungry and you think “What to eat in Tokyo”, and you go on, “I would like to try one of the typical dishes of Tokyo, but I don’t know exactly what they are”.
Well, that’s why I’m here, to explain the 10 typical dishes of Tokyo, and ramen is the most famous among the Japanese, because, after work, when they are discouraged, students, people who live alone, or when they go with friends, always think of Ramen, and this is a dish deeply rooted in the cuisine of Tokyo.
Brief summary: What is Ramen (Tokyo Gastronomy) – Typical japanese dishes
Ramen is one of Tokyo’s most popular Japanese dishes in Japan.
Ramen contains a meat or fish broth with thick noodles, vegetables and pieces of meat or egg.
The origin of ramen is in China, but it has evolved over time to become one of the most representative dishes of Japanese gastronomy and especially of Tokyo gastronomy, as it is a dish that you can even prepare at home super fast and without cooking knowledge if you buy the prepared sachet or the small container to which you simply add water.
Types of Ramen (Tokyo Gastronomy) – Typical japanese Dishes
There are many types of ramen in Tokyo cuisine and Japanese cuisine in general, each with its own variety of broth, noodles and ingredients, such as:
- Soybean ramen is a dark, thick broth with thick noodles and pork.
- Miso ramen has a miso paste broth and is served with thin noodles and vegetables.
- Tonkotsu ramen is very popular in southern Japan and is characterized by a thick, creamy broth made from pork bones and meat.
In addition to the different types of ramen, there are also regional variations in the way it is served. In Tokyo cuisine, ramen is generally served with a clear broth and thin noodles, while in the Kyushu region, ramen is served with thick broth and thick noodles.
How to prepare Ramen (What to eat in Tokyo) Gastronomy of Tokyo
The preparation of ramen in Tokyo cuisine, and also in Japanese cuisine itself, is an art in itself.
The broth is cooked for hours to extract all the flavors and nutrients from the ingredients, and the noodles are cooked to just the right texture.
In addition, ramen is served with a variety of ingredients and toppings, such as boiled egg, onion, scallion, bean sprouts, pork, etc.
Where to find Ramen, one of the typical japanese dishes (Tokyo Gastronomy)
In Japan, ramen can be found in a wide variety of establishments, from specialized restaurants to street ramen stores, and even as I mentioned before, in industrial bags or small jars to which you only have to add water (Note that this will not taste the same as in a Japanese Ramen restaurant, although I personally like the taste, it reminds me of when I was studying there and I had to cut costs and my Japanese friends rediscovered the world with ramen).
In conclusion, ramen is one of the most typical dishes of Tokyo, but also one of the most popular throughout Japan and also representative of Japanese cuisine.
Ramen, with a great variety of types and preparations, is a dish that has evolved over time to adapt to local and regional preferences of the Japanese, so if you think about what to eat in Tokyo, do not miss its regional variety.
5. Yakizakana (What to eat in Tokyo) – Typical japanese dishes
Yakizakana is a traditional Japanese dish and one of Tokyo’s signature dishes, consisting of fish grilled with salt and/or a mixture of seasonings.
The name “yakizakana” comes from the words “yaki” meaning grilled or roasted and “zakana” meaning fish.
Which fish is used in Yakizakana – Traditional food in Tokyo
The fish used for Yakizakana may vary according to region and season, but some of the most popular fish are salmon, ayu, saury, tai and buri. The fish is cleaned and prepared before being grilled. It is important that the fish is fresh and of high quality to get the best flavor.
How to eat Yakizakana – Traditional food in Tokyo
Yakizakana is usually served with rice and can be accompanied with vegetables such as onion or cucumber. It is also common to serve it with a spoonful of mustard or a slightly spicy soy sauce to give it a little extra flavor.
The way Yakizakana is cooked varies according to the region of Japan.
For example, in the Kanto region of Tokyo, it is cooked grill style, while in the Kansai region it is cooked grill style with a mixture of seasonings.
Yakizakana is a popular meal among the Japanese, due to its delicious taste and simplicity. It is an easy meal to prepare at home and can be found in a variety of Japanese restaurants, especially in coastal regions.
It is one of the most common ways to eat fresh fish in Japan.
6. Takoyaki (Tokyo Gastronomy) – Typical japanese dishes
If you want to try another delicacy of Tokyo gastronomy and Japanese gastronomy in general, you must try Takoyaki.
What is Takoyaki (Tokyo Gastronomy) – Typical japanese dishes
Takoyaki is a culinary delicacy of Japanese origin, especially popular in the Kansai region.
Takoyaki are dumplings of wheat flour dough stuffed with cooked octopus, onion, and cabbage, sometimes other varieties have soy bean sprouts and seaweed.
It is one of the most popular dishes in Japan and is commonly served at street festivals and in specialty stores, but in recent years it has made a niche in the gastronomy of Tokyo.
History of Takoyaki (Tokyo Gastronomy) – Typical dishes of Tokyo
The history of takoyaki dates back to the 1930s in Osaka. The creation is attributed to a street vendor named Tomekichi Endo, who had seen okonomiyaki hawkers making their delicious food on a spherical griddle and decided to create his own version with octopus. It eventually became one of Osaka’s most popular dishes and quickly spread to other parts of Japan, leaving its mark on Tokyo’s typical dishes.
How to prepare Takoyaki (Tokyo Gastronomy) – Typical japanese dishes
The preparation of takoyaki begins with mixing the dough of wheat flour, egg, fish broth and milk. Then, the dumplings are placed on a spherical plate with small cavities to shape them. Next, the stuffed ingredients such as cooked octopus, onion and cabbage are added.
The takoyaki is turned several times while cooking so that it cooks evenly.
Once cooked, they are served hot and can be eaten with a variety of sauces and toppings, such as mayonnaise, soy sauce, aonori (seaweed) and shredded dried bonito. In some places, you can also find takoyaki with different fillings such as pork, cheese and vegetables, or even just the octopus without cabbage.
Where to find Takoyaki in Tokyo (Tokyo Gastronomy) – Typical japanese Dishes
In Japan, takoyaki is a very popular delicacy and can be found in many specialty stores. In addition, it can also be found at street festivals and special events in the famous Japanese Yatai.
7. Oyakodon – Typical japanese Dishes (What to eat in Tokyo)
Oyakodon is a traditional Japanese dish and one of the best things to eat in Tokyo if you have children.
Oyakodon consists of rice cooked with chicken and eggs cooked on top of it. The name “oyakodon” comes from the words “oya” meaning father or mother and “ko” meaning child or son, referring to the combination of chicken and egg in the dish.
How to prepare Oyakodon at home – Tokyo Gastronomy in your home
To prepare the dish, first cook the chicken in a pan with onion and add the beaten egg. Cook until the egg is cooked and mix with the cooked rice. It is common to add a little soy sauce and mirin to flavor the dish. The oyakodon is served in a bowl and can be garnished with chopped green onion.
Oyakodon is a very popular dish in Japan, especially as a fast food or take-out meal. It is easy to prepare and can be found in a variety of Japanese restaurants, from fast food restaurants to traditional restaurants. It is also a popular dish to take home or to take to work.
8. Tamagoyaki – Typical japanese Dishes (What to eat in Tokyo)
Tamagoyaki is a traditional Japanese culinary delicacy consisting of beaten egg cooked in a special pan called makiyakinabe.
What is tamagoyaki, one of the typical japanese dishes of Tokyo?
It is a traditional form of fried egg in Japan, and is used as an ingredient in a variety of dishes, from sushi and onigiri to bento and ramen dishes.
Tamagoyaki is one of Japan’s culinary specialties and is very popular among the Japanese and is one of Tokyo’s signature dishes as well.
History of Tamagoyaki (Tokyo Gastronomy) – Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo
The history of tamagoyaki dates back to the Edo period in Japan, it has become a traditional culinary delicacy and is very popular among the Japanese.
The process of cooking tamagoyaki is quite complex and requires skill and practice. The beaten egg is cooked in a special frying pan called makiyakinabe, it is rolled and more egg is added and it is a slow and painstaking process.
How and where to make and serve tamagoyaki – Typical japanese dishes
There are various recipes and methods for cooking tamagoyaki, but generally a mixture of egg, sake, mirin and salt is used. Sometimes other ingredients, such as onion, carrot or seaweed, are also added for additional flavor.
Tamagoyaki can be served in many ways, usually sliced thinly and used as an ingredient in sushi, onigiri, Japanese bento, and other traditional Japanese dishes. Sometimes, it is also served alone as a side dish for breakfast or dinner.
9. Udon / Soba – Typical japanese Dishes (What to eat in Tokyo)
Soba and udon are two types of traditional Japanese noodles popular in Tokyo dishes.
Both are made from wheat flour, but differ in their preparation process and texture.
Soba is a thin, thin noodle handmade from buckwheat flour and wheat flour. It is usually cooked in boiling water and served hot or cold with a variety of sauces and toppings.
Soba is considered a healthy and light food in Japan, and is believed to have medicinal properties. It is very common in northern Japan, especially in Nagano prefecture.
On the other hand, udon is a thick, soft noodle made with wheat flour and water. It is also cooked in boiling water and served with a variety of sauces and toppings.
Unlike soba, udon is considered a heartier meal and is believed to be more suitable for cold weather. It is very common in southern Japan, especially in Kagawa Prefecture.
Both soba and udon are very popular in Japan and can be found in a variety of restaurants, from specialty establishments to fast food restaurants. In addition, they can also be found in stores and supermarkets ready to cook at home.
10. Sushi – Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo (What to eat in Tokyo)
Sushi is one of the most iconic and famous dishes in Japanese cuisine, and Tokyo is one of the best places to try it. The city is famous for its high quality sushi and for its highly trained sushi chefs who have perfected the art of sushi preparation.
Types of Sushi – Typical japanese Dishes
There are several types of sushi, but the most commonly known sushi is nigiri sushi, which consists of a portion of rice with a portion of fish or seafood on top.
The rice is slightly sweet and is mixed with rice vinegar, sugar and salt before being placed on top of the fish or seafood. Sushi maki is another common type, which is a roll of rice with fish, vegetables and seaweed inside.
Where to eat sushi in Tokyo
Tokyo has a wide variety of sushi restaurants, from traditional izakayas to upscale sushi restaurants.
- In upscale sushi restaurants, chefs use the finest ingredients, including high-quality fresh fish and seafood imported from around the world, and sushi is served in a sophisticated atmosphere.
- At izakayas, the best sushi and other traditional dishes can be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere.
- At kaiten sushi restaurants, customers can select the sushi of their choice directly from a conveyor belt.
Japanese sushi in Tokyo is very versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from a quick meal at a kaiten sushi to an upscale dining experience at a traditional restaurant.
The quality of sushi is exceptional due to the availability of the best ingredients and the skill and experience of the sushi chefs.
11. Chirashizushi – Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo (What to eat in Tokyo)
Chirashizushi is a popular variety of Japanese sushi that means “scattered sushi”.
Unlike other types of sushi, chirashizushi is served in a flat bowl and the ingredients are arranged on top of the rice rather than rolled.
What’s in Chirashizushi, the traditional food of Tokyo?
The ingredients used in chirashizushi can vary, but often include fresh fish, vegetables, egg, seafood and seaweed.
Chirashizushi is considered a traditional Japanese food and in Tokyo cuisine and is served on special occasions such as Children’s Day, Mother’s Day and Ancestor’s Day.
It is also served at ceremonies such as Hanami (cherry blossom festival) and at the Japanese New Year celebration.
How to prepare chirashizushi (What to eat in Tokyo) Tokyo Gastronomy
In terms of its preparation, chirashizushi is made by mixing rice with rice vinegar and then placed on a flat plate. The ingredients are arranged on top of the rice. Often, a mixture of different ingredients both salty and sweet is used to achieve a balance of flavors.
In terms of presentation, chirashizushi is usually presented in a colorful and attractive manner, with the ingredients arranged in layers and in different shades. It is a very visual food and is one of the reasons why it is so popular.
12. Yakitori – Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo (Traditional food in Tokyo)
Yakitori is one of the most popular and representative dishes of Japanese cuisine in Tokyo, it is grilled chicken skewers seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, sake and sugar.
It is a traditional Japanese culinary delight that has become a popular delicacy in Tokyo’s gastronomic culture.
Where to eat Yakitori, one of the typical japanese dishes of Tokyo
Yakitori can be found in a variety of establishments in Tokyo, from traditional izakayas to specialized yakitori bars, it is one of the fast and inexpensive food options in the city.
Chicken is the main meat used in yakitori, but it can also be found with other types of meat such as pork or lamb.
How to prepare yakitori (What to eat in Tokyo)
Preparation of the yakitori begins with selecting the best cuts of chicken, then seasoning it with a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, sake and sugar.
It is placed on skewers and placed on a bamboo charcoal grill, cooked over medium-low heat and turned several times until cooked and browned.
Once cooked, it is served hot and can be enjoyed with a variety of sauces and toppings, such as mayonnaise or tartar sauce.
13. Sashimi – Typical japanese dishes (What to eat in Tokyo)
sashimi is a traditional dish in Tokyo and throughout Japan, but is most famous in its capital due to the influx of foreigners, and consists of thinly sliced raw fish or raw seafood.
The term “sashimi” literally means “thin cuts” and refers to the technique of cutting fish or seafood into thin, flat slices. Sashimi is served with a variety of condiments and sauces, such as wasabi, ginger and soy sauce.
Sashimi is considered one of the most representative dishes of Japanese gastronomy and Tokyo cuisine and is highly appreciated for its freshness and flavor.
It is usually served as a main dish in sushi restaurants and is a delicacy for fish and seafood lovers.
Sashimi is made with a variety of seafood, the most popular being tuna, salmon, kohada (catfish), tai (mahi mahi) and tako (octopus).
The fish used for sashimi must be fresh and of high quality, as the flavor and texture of the raw fish are essential to the taste of the dish.
How to prepare sashimi at home (Traditional Tokyo cuisine at home)
The preparation of sashimi is an art in itself and great skill is required to cut the fish into thin, flat slices. Sashimi chefs use a special knife called hankotsu to cut the fish. The knife must be sharp and in optimum condition to achieve the perfect cut.
In terms of presentation, sashimi is usually served on a flat plate with the fish cuts arranged in an attractive manner.
It is often accompanied with a variety of condiments and sauces, as well as vegetables and seaweed. Sashimi is a delight for the senses, both for the palate and the eyes.
14. Tonkatsu – Typical japanese dishes (Tokyo Gastronomy)
Tonkatsu is one of the most popular dishes of Japanese cuisine in Tokyo, consisting of breaded and fried pork slices, it is a versatile delicacy and can be enjoyed in many ways.
Its history dates back to the 1890s in Japan and it has become an emblematic dish of Japanese cuisine in Tokyo.
Where to eat Tonkatsu, one of the typical japanese dishes of Tokyo
Tonkatsu is very popular in Tokyo cuisine, and can be found in a variety of restaurants, from traditional establishments to restaurants specializing in tonkatsu.
It is a versatile delicacy and can be enjoyed in many ways, either on its own or with rice, cabbage or ramen, it is an affordable and accessible treat to enjoy a traditional meal in Tokyo.
How to prepare Tonkatsu (What to eat in Tokyo)
The preparation of tonkatsu begins with the selection of the best cuts of pork, then it is dredged in flour, egg and breadcrumbs before being fried in hot oil.
It is served hot and can be enjoyed with a variety of sauces, such as soy sauce or apple sauce.
It is often accompanied by cooked shredded cabbage and can also be found with fillings such as cheese or mushrooms.
15. Japanese Curry – Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo (What to eat in Tokyo)
Japanese curry, known as “kare” in Japanese, is a popular dish in Japan and Tokyo cuisine, i.e. a typical Tokyo food, which has evolved over the years to suit local tastes and preferences.
Although the original curry comes from India, Japanese curry has become distinctive and has become a traditional food in Japan.
How to eat Japanese curry – Typical japanese Dishes
Japanese curry is usually served over rice and usually includes meat, vegetables and a variety of spices, including cumin, turmeric, cinnamon and ginger. The consistency is generally runnier than the Indian version and is usually less spicy.
Japanese curry can be found in a variety of places, from fast food restaurants to high-end restaurants. It is often served at home as a family dish and can also be found canned in grocery stores.
Japanese curry has also become a popular ingredient in other dishes, such as pan curry, a kind of fried curry-filled patty, and udon curry, a dish of udon noodles in a curry broth.
In Japan, there are local variations of curry such as Katsu Curry, which is a piece of chicken or pork breaded in flour and egg, fried and served with rice and curry.
There is also Curry Rice, a dish that has become a classic and consists of rice with beef, vegetables and a curry sauce.
16. Wagyu Beef or Kobe Beef – Typical japanese dishes (Tokyo Gastronomy)
Wagyu or Kobe beef is one of the most famous and coveted delicacies of Japanese gastronomy and Tokyo’s own gastronomy.
Kobe beef refers to beef raised in Hyogo Prefecture in western Japan, and is known for its marbling, soft texture and delicate flavor. Kobe beef is considered a high-quality delicacy due to its high marbled fat content, which gives it that unique texture and distinctive flavor.
Where to eat Kobe Beef, one of the typical japanese dishes of Tokyo
As to whether it is consumed in Tokyo, the answer is yes, it is possible to find Kobe beef in some high quality restaurants in Tokyo, specialized in high quality meats, and in some izakayas or yakiniku (grilled meat restaurants) , and it is considered a luxury having a high price due to its high quality and exclusivity in breeding, but it is a culinary experience highly valued by meat lovers in Tokyo.
How Kobe Beef is Raised (Traditional food in Tokyo)
The breeding of Kobe beef is a very careful process, the animals are raised with special feed, daily massages and are given Sake wine, in addition to being vaccinated, all this in order to improve the quality of the meat.
In addition to this, the name “Kobe” is only allowed to be used for beef raised in Hyogo prefecture, following strict regulations and quality standards.
17. Japanese Tempura – Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo (Tokyo Gastronomy)
Japanese tempura is one of the most popular dishes in Tokyo cuisine, known for its delicacy and crispy texture.
It consists of ingredients such as vegetables and seafood, wrapped in a light batter and fried in hot oil. Tempura is usually served with a soy sauce and wasabi, and eaten with rice.
Tempura has its roots in Portuguese cuisine, and was introduced to Japan in the 16th century by Catholic missionaries. However, over time it has adapted and evolved to become a traditional Japanese dish.
Types of Japanese Tempura (Traditional food in Tokyo)
There are several types of tempura, some of which are:
- Ebi tempura: shrimp tempura is one of the most popular types of tempura.
- Kakiage tempura: a mixture of different vegetables and/or seafood, cut into small pieces and fried together in a tempura batter.
- Atsuage tempura: a kind of tofu tempura, fried in large pieces and often served with a soy sauce.
- Yasai tempura: vegetable tempura, may include vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, etc.
In addition to traditional tempura, there are also other varieties, such as ten-don, a rice dish with tempura on top, or tendon-curry, a mixture of tempura and curry.
In short, Japanese tempura is a traditional and popular dish of Japanese cuisine, known for its delicacy and crispy texture. There are several types of tempura such as Ebi tempura, Kakiage tempura, Atsuage tempura and Yasai tempura, each with its specific ingredients and ways of preparation.
18. Dango – Typical japanese dishes (Tokyo Gastronomy)
Mitarashi dango is a traditional Japanese sweet that has become very popular throughout the country, especially in Tokyo cuisine.
It consists of dango balls (glutinous rice sweets) steamed and dipped in a delicious sweet caramelized soy sauce.
This sweet is very versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways, either alone or in combination with other ingredients.
Where to eat Mitarashi Dango, one of the typical japanese dishes of Tokyo
This sweet can be found in many different places in Japan, from traditional sweet stores to fairs and festivals in their corresponding Yatai.
In Tokyo it is possible to find it in specialized stores and also in some traditional markets, such as the Tsukiji market. It can be enjoyed either hot or cold, it is a versatile sweet that adapts to any taste.
How to prepare Mitarashi Dango (What to eat in Tokyo)
Dango is a traditional Japanese sweet and a typical food in Tokyo, made from glutinous rice and steamed.
Mitarashi dango is distinguished by the caramel or sweet soy sauce used to dip the dango balls. The preparation of the sauce is very simple: soy, sugar and mirin are mixed and cooked until a smooth, thick caramel is formed.
19. Unagi – Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo (Tokyo Gastronomy)
Unagi is a traditional Japanese dish and one of Tokyo’s signature dishes, which refers to freshwater eel.
It is often served in a variety of dishes, such as unadon (eel rice dish) or unaju (eel rice dish in a wooden bowl).
Freshwater eel is considered a delicious and nutritious food in Japan, and its meat is soft and tender with a slightly smoky flavor. It is commonly cooked in a sweet soy sauce and served with rice.
How to prepare Japanese unagi at home (traditional Japanese dish)
There are many different ways to prepare unagi, but one of the most popular is called kabayaki, in which the eel is cooked in a sweet soy sauce and mirin before being grilled over coals.
Another popular form is Hitsumabushi, in which unagi is cooked and then grated and mixed with rice, served in a bowl and mixed with different seasonings.
In some regions of Japan, unagi is also used in dishes for parties and celebrations, such as unaju at weddings or unadon at the Father’s Day festival.
In short, unagi is a traditional Japanese dish that is highly appreciated for its delicious taste and texture, and is an important part of Japanese food culture.
20. Yoshoku and Omurice- Typical japanese dishes (Tokyo Gastronomy)
Yoshoku is a Japanese term that refers to Western food adapted to Japanese tastes.
It often refers to dishes that have been created in Japan from Western recipes, but have been modified to suit local tastes and culinary preferences. These dishes are very popular in Japan and are an important part of Japanese cuisine and typical Tokyo dishes as it is famous among the locals.
Omurice, the most famous food of the Yoshoku (Tokyo Gastronomy)
One of the most popular yoshoku dishes is Omurice, a rice dish wrapped in an egg omelet and filled with rice and stewed chicken. Another popular dish is Katsu-don, a rice dish with a portion of fried breaded meat topped with soy sauce. Korokke, a kind of potato croquette stuffed with meat, is also a popular yoshoku dish.
Yoshoku also includes Japanese versions of Western dishes such as hamburgers, meatloaf, and fried fish. Overall, yoshoku is a blend of Western and Japanese culinary influences and is highly regarded in Japan.
As for the types of tempura at Yoshoku, there are several different types of tempura, each with its own texture and flavor.
Some of the most popular types include:
- Ebi-ten, shrimp tempura
- Kanpyo-ten, seaweed tempura
- Yasai-ten, vegetable tempura
- Tako-ten, octopus tempura
- Kaki-ten, oyster tempura
In short, yoshoku is an important part of Japanese cuisine and a great variety of Western dishes adapted to Japanese tastes. Tempura dishes are one of the most popular dishes in Japan and there are several different types of tempura, each with its own texture and flavor.
21. Dorayaki – Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo (Typical Tokyo food)
Dorayaki is a traditional Japanese dessert consisting of two round, flat pancakes made with chickpea flour, which are filled with a layer of anko (red bean paste) in the middle usually.
Dorayaki is especially popular in the TÅkyÅ area making it a good dish to try in Tokyo, and is believed to have been first created in the 1910s in the city of Ueno.
History of Dorayaki, one of Tokyo’s typical dishes
The history of dorayaki dates back to the Edo period, when a Buddhist monk named Usagiya Ichibei dedicated himself to making dorayaki at his temple in Ueno.
His recipe became famous and quickly spread throughout the region, and today dorayaki specialty stores can be found all over Japan.
Today it can be found in any grocery store, bakery, supermarket or specialty store.
How to eat dorayaki one of Tokyo’s typical dishes
Dorayaki is a very versatile dessert that can be enjoyed both for breakfast and as an afternoon snack. It is often served with green tea, as its smooth texture and sweet taste perfectly complement the flavor of the tea.
Dorayaki is also used as an ingredient in other culinary preparations such as dorayaki parfait, dorayaki ice cream sundae, and dorayaki burger.
How to prepare dorayaki (Traditional food in Tokyo)
In addition to its versatility in taste, Dorayaki is also popular for its ease of preparation, as it is a simple recipe that can be made at home with just a few ingredients. Once you have mixed flour, egg, sugar and baking powder, you can make pancakes with the perfect consistency.
Nowadays, there are also varieties of dorayaki with innovative flavors and fillings, such as dorayaki with choco-banana or matcha, a variety of Japanese green tea known for its antioxidant properties and unique flavor.
22. Gyozas- Typical japanese dishes of Tokyo (Tokyo Gastronomy)
Gyozas are one of the most popular dishes in Japanese cuisine, especially in traditional food in Tokyo.
They are a variety of dumplings or Chinese dumplings filled with pork or vegetables with garlic, onion and ginger, and are served fried or steamed.
Where to eat Gyozas, one of the typical dishes of Tokyo
In Tokyo, gyozas can be found in a variety of places, from specialty restaurants to street food stalls. Some of the best places to try gyozas in Tokyo are places like Harajuku Gyozaro, a famous gyoza restaurant in the Harajuku district, or Gyoza no Ohsho, a chain of gyoza restaurants with several locations in the city.
However, not only in specialized restaurants you can find delicious gyozas, there are also street stalls or markets that offer high quality gyozas, some of these places are Tsukiji Market, the largest fish and seafood market in Tokyo, or Shinjuku Gyoen, a beautiful park that offers a wide variety of street food, including gyozas.
In addition to the delicious food, the experience of eating gyozas in Tokyo is also unique. Many of the restaurants specializing in gyozas have a casual and cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal place to enjoy a casual meal with friends and family.
In addition, street stalls offer a more authentic and close-up experience of Tokyo’s food culture, where you can watch gyozas being prepared and cooked in real time.
In conclusion, these typical dishes or traditional food in Tokyo, are a delicious culinary option in Tokyo, with a variety of places where you can try from specialized restaurants to street stalls.
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