Choosing the perfect destination for a vacation can be overwhelming at times, with so many excellent options available. Japan is among the most popular destinations worldwide as it blends ancient culture with modernity. Tokyo, a buzzing metropolis, is the epicentre of Japanese fashion, and food. If you’re a foodie, this might be just the ideal choice for a lovely holiday.
Being the political centre of Japan for years, Tokyo has naturally exerted considerable influence on Japanese cuisine. It is very well-known for its fine dining. The decade long devotion and perfectionism to artistry have earned this food heaven the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. However, the question remains- With so many incredible choices, how do you make the most of your trip to Tokyo? Here’s a guide to help you with that and save some time you would otherwise spend researching. Read on to learn about five dishes you should eat in this city.
Being the political centre of Japan for years, Tokyo has naturally exerted considerable influence on Japanese cuisine. It is very well-known for its fine dining. The decade long devotion and perfectionism to artistry have earned this food heaven the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. However, the question remains- With so many incredible choices, how do you make the most of your trip to Tokyo? Here’s a guide to help you with that and save some time you would otherwise spend researching. Read on to learn about five dishes you should eat in this city.
The first thing that comes to any person’s mind when talking about Japanese food is sushi. Tokyo is the birthplace of this delicious food item, though it is available in almost all parts of the globe today. Two winning factors set Japanese sushi apart from the rest of the world- an abundance of fresh seafood and time-honoured skills for making sushi rice.
Presented in a number of shapes and styles, there is no doubt that sushi is on the culinary bucket list of every traveller. Pair it with Stagg Jr for an amazing gastronomical experience. You can eat great sushi on a budget in local restaurants or even in fine-dining. There is an excellent variety of fresh fish that you can choose from. Don’t miss out on Hokkaido, and O-taro- the most famous local fishes. It would be best not to visit restaurants during peak times if you want to avoid long queues.
Ramen is one of the quintessential Japanese soul foods, loved by young and old alike. It has a rich, milky soup base, made by simmering pork bones for hours. The defining element of ramen is Kansui. It gives the noodles a yellowish tint and helps achieve the desired flavour and consistency. There are about twenty-six different types of ramen based on the flavour of the broth- be it soy sauce, salt, pork, or oil-based. Apart from being remarkably cheap, it will leave you feeling full and satisfied after just a bowl.
Tokyo has more than 1,00,000 restaurants that offer ramen in a dynamic range of textures. Whether you’re craving for meaty tonkatsu styles or something light and refined, there’s something for all ramen lovers. There are vegan options as well. Make sure you eat this authentic from a quality food joint to get a taste of the finest broths made with fresh ingredients. Happy slurping!
Almost all food cultures around the world seem to have barbecued meat dishes close to their hearts, and Japan is no exception. Yakitori is one such dish that makes use of all parts of the chicken, including its liver, heart, and even the chicken comb.
Preparing this dish is relatively easy. The meat is cooked over charcoal grills and is crispy outside and tender on the inside. You can season it with salt or savoury tare sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, and dashi broth. You can try this iconic food in Tokyo as a casual, cheap snack when hungry. Many Yakitori-specialized restaurants have a strict and specific way of preparing it.
Tonkatsu is a fried Japanese pork cutlet usually served with a savoury and sweet mustard sauce. After coating with flaky panko breadcrumbs, it is deep-fried to a golden crisp and is juicy and delicious on the inside. This simple and quick dish includes only a few ingredients. The most enjoyable way to eat tonkatsu is as a meal with rice, raw shredded cabbage, and Japanese style pickles.
Today, it is one of the most commonly eaten dishes in Tokyo. The recipe for tonkatsu may vary slightly with different restaurants.
Hand-made soba, one of the most popular Japanese dishes, is nothing less than a work of art. These buckwheat flour noodles have a chewy taste and a refreshing nutty flavour. Artisans spend years studying the intensely complicated process of making these noodles as it takes an immense amount of skill and experience in producing high-quality soba. You can eat these noodles in a hot clear broth or chilled with a dipping sauce, as per your preference or the weather.
Usually served with topping or side dishes, these noodles go best with tempura i.e. deep-fried shrimp with vegetables. As compared to ramen, it is low in calories and is an excellent source of protein and fibre. This delicious and healthy option is a must-try when you’re visiting Tokyo.
A trip to Tokyo would not be complete without trying the authentic food. This post would help you make an informed decision regarding what local foods you must try. If you’re a food lover, you are bound to have a delightful experience in Tokyo.
