One of the most exciting aspects of travel is the opportunity to experience new foods, or even foods prepared in new ways. While every city and country has their delicacy, their bistable dish, or even the very thing they are known for, the city of Tokyo, Japan may be one of the most unique food centers in the world. If you are planning a trip to Tokyo, or even Japan in general, there are a number of different dishes you must take the time to introduce to your palette. Even if you are not staying in Tokyo long term, and are just merely passing through, you can take the time to find luggage storage in Tokyo, leave your things for a day and go on an adventure of the taste buds. Here are seven Tokyo delicacies that you need to try!
1. Sushi
I know, I know, sushi in itself is not something that you can only find in Tokyo. But sushi in Tokyo is drastically different from any sushi you might find in the United States or otherwise.
First of all, sushi in Tokyo is made from fresh, quality fish by chefs who are intensely skilled in their craft. You will find pairings of ingredients that you would never find in western nations, and a quality that you would have to pay far more for anywhere else. Wherever you are in Tokyo, finding and trying different sushis will not be a regrettable decision, and may end up surprising your tongue with flavors you have not experienced before. So go out, find some sushi, experience the many combinations that seafood, rice, and seaweed can produce.
2. Tendon
Tendon is a specialty dish in Tokyo, a combination of tempura and donburi. It is a seafood salad of sorts: fried seafood, vegetables, and novelties served over a bed of white rice. This delicious food—whether indulged in whilst on the street, or within the walls of a restaurant—is a great starting off point in Tokyo cuisine. It isn’t too new for an unaccustomed palette, and can be a great vessel to begin introducing new flavors to your repertoire.
Tendon is a great form of fast food in Tokyo, so if you see it, give it a try! It might surprise you.
3. Monjayaki
Monjayaki is a difficult dish to describe, but in its essence it is a savory pancake, or crepe that is cooked with all of its ingredients within. This pancake is usually of a slightly more ‘runny’ texture than a western pancake would be, but usually boasts a number of different vegetables, meats, and other ingredients that make its flavor and feel unique. This is truly a dish that you can enjoy at any time of the day, and one that you can find all around Tokyo. Give Monjayaki a try, and you may find one of your new favorite foods.
4. Tokyo Buns
It’s in the name right? There are a number of different forms that Tokyo buns take, but all of them are native to the city. Tokyo buns can range from something like a filled donut, to a savory experience, or simply a perfectly prepared and cooked dough. These puns are great handheld snacks and treats to pick up and take around with you as you explore the city of Tokyo. You will likely find new flavors and experiences within these buns, but don’t be afraid to branch out!
5. Tsukemen
Tsukemen is essentially ramen broken into its separate parts, in fact, the name itself means “dipping noodles.” Tsukemen is a great way to try many new flavors within a familiar form. You can try different noodles, different broths, and different accompanying ingredients in a fun format. Tsukemen, like many famous Tokyo foods, is something you can find nearly anywhere, all of which will demonstrate different collections of flavors and opportunities.
6. Chanko Nabe
If you are ready to really dive into the possibilities of different meats in Tokyo, then chanko nabe is a great place to start. This is essentially a seafood stew, prepared in chicken broth with an assortment of other meats and veggies. It is meant to be extremely high in protein and to be an athlete’s fuel, so make sure you have plenty of room in your stomach if you decide to chow down on some chanko nabe.
7. Anago
Anago is saltwater eel, and is a native fish to Tokyo Bay. This fish is known for having an incredibly clean taste, and is frequently served alongside, or on top of sushi. However, you can also get anago individually prepared in both sweet, spicy, and savory ways, making it an excellent, protein rich exciting snack for your adventures in Tokyo.
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