What Food To Try in Tokyo and Food Prices

Tamago Kake Gohan - Raw Egg Over Rice (simple breakfast) - A comforting dish of steamed rice topped with a raw egg and soy sauce, often mixed together for a creamy texture. It’s a popular breakfast choice, typically enjoyed at home for its simplicity and quick preparation.

Yaki Imo - Baked Sweet Potato (street food) - Roasted sweet potatoes that are soft and sweet on the inside, often sold from trucks with steaming hot boxes. Locals love to grab these as a warm snack during colder months while strolling through parks.

Gyudon - Beef Bowl (main course) - Thinly sliced beef simmered in a sweet soy-based broth served over rice, often garnished with green onions and pickled ginger. This stir-fried comfort food is a favorite for lunch or dinner, commonly found in casual restaurants.

Monjayaki - Tokyo-style Savory Pancake (local specialty) - A runny mixture of flour, dashi, and various toppings cooked on a hotplate, where diners use small spatulas to eat directly from the grill. It’s a fantastic way to socialize, especially in neighborhoods like Tsukishima, known for its monjayaki shops.

Negitoro Don - Chopped Tuna Over Rice (surprising combination) - A flavorful bowl featuring finely chopped fatty tuna mixed with green onions served over rice. It’s an unexpected twist for visitors; the soft texture contrasts nicely with the crunchy greens, and it’s often enjoyed for dinner as a hearty and satisfying meal.

Sakura Ebi Tempura - Cherry Blossom Shrimp Tempura (seasonal variation) - Lightly battered and fried tiny shrimp known for their floral scent and delicate taste, often enjoyed during the spring. You’ll find this dish traditionally served as part of seasonal celebrations, showcasing the beauty of Japan’s cherry blossom season, especially cherished in local restaurants.

Onigiri - Rice Balls (casual snack or meal) - Shaped rice balls typically filled with umeboshi (pickled plum) or salmon, wrapped in seaweed for added flavor. Locals often grab these from convenience stores for a quick lunch or snack, providing a taste of home that’s hard to beat. By the way, be careful how you bite into it—not everyone knows you don’t eat the seaweed first!

Matcha Latte - 抹茶ラテ (green tea latte) - Smooth blend of premium matcha green tea whisked into steamed milk, creating a creamy, vibrant drink. Often enjoyed in cozy tea houses, especially during the cooler months when locals seek warmth and refreshment.

Yuzu Lemonade - ゆずレモネード (citrus drink) - A refreshing mix of yuzu citrus juice, sparkling water, and a touch of sweetness, served over ice. Commonly enjoyed in the summer heat, it’s the perfect palate cleanser while you stroll through the park.

Shōchū - 焼酎 (Japanese spirits) - Distilled alcoholic drink made from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice, served either straight, on the rocks, or diluted with water. Locals often enjoy it at izakayas with friends, particularly during social gatherings and celebrations.

Melon Pan - メロンパン (sweet bread) - Sweet, buttery bread topped with crispy cookie-like crust, resembling a melon but not actually flavored with melon. It's a favorite snack for busy commuters, often picked up from local bakeries right before heading to work.

Shaved Ice - カキ氷 (icy dessert) - Fluffy, finely shaved ice topped with various flavored syrups, condensed milk, and sometimes sweet red beans. Typically relished during summer festivals or hot afternoons, offering a cooling sensation that makes you feel like a kid again.

By the way, don’t be surprised if you see random melon pan flavor variations popping up—it’s truly a local favorite that everyone seems to have their own twist on!