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Must-Try Foods in Japan: A Culinary Guide for Food Lovers

4 min read

Japan’s culinary landscape is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and artistry. From iconic sushi to sweet matcha desserts, Japanese cuisine is a must-experience for any traveler. In this blog, we’ll explore the top must-try foods in Japan, the best restaurants to enjoy them, and tips for navigating the country’s vibrant food culture.


1. Sushi: A Timeless Classic

Sushi is Japan’s most iconic dish, combining fresh seafood with perfectly seasoned rice. It’s not just a meal—it’s an art form that reflects Japanese culture’s dedication to quality and simplicity.


Best Sushi Restaurants


  • Sukiyabashi Jiro (Tokyo)

    A Michelin-starred restaurant led by master chef Jiro Ono, known worldwide for its impeccable sushi.

  • Sushi Saito (Tokyo)

    One of the highest-rated sushi restaurants, offering Edomae-style sushi with a personal touch.

  • Daiwa Sushi (Tokyo)

    Located in Toyosu Market, this spot serves fresh, affordable sushi in a bustling environment.

Tips for Enjoying Sushi in Japan

  • Make reservations early for Michelin-starred restaurants.

  • Visit local conveyor belt sushi (kaitenzushi) for a casual and fun experience.

    Close-up of sushi roll with chopsticks, featuring fresh ingredients like crab, avocado, and rice. Ideal for showcasing must-try foods in Japan and iconic Japanese cuisine.

2. Ramen: Comfort in a Bowl

Ramen is Japan’s ultimate comfort food, with rich broths and springy noodles. Each region offers a unique twist, from creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) in Kyushu to soy-based shoyu ramen in Tokyo.


Best Ramen Restaurants


  • Ichiran Ramen (Tokyo)

    Famous for its customizable tonkotsu ramen served in private dining booths.

  • Ramen Jiro (Tokyo)

    Known for its heaping portions and flavorful soy-based broth.

  • Ippudo (Tokyo)

    Renowned for its creamy tonkotsu broth and modern vibe.

Pro Tip: Slurping noodles is not only polite but enhances the flavor!

Close-up of a steaming bowl of ramen with rich broth, seaweed, and noodles being served with a spoon. Highlights traditional Japanese cuisine, perfect for showcasing must-try foods in Japan.

3. Takoyaki: Osaka’s Street Food Staple

Takoyaki, or octopus balls, are a popular street food made of batter, octopus, and savory toppings. This crispy, tender snack originated in Osaka and is a must-try in the Kansai region.


Best Takoyaki Restaurants


  • Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka (Osaka)

    A local favorite known for its crispy takoyaki.

  • Aizuya (Osaka)

    The birthplace of takoyaki, offering a traditional recipe since 1933.

  • Kogaryu (Osaka)

    Known for its flavorful batter and unique topping options.

4. Wagyu Beef: A Luxurious Treat

Wagyu beef, known for its marbled texture and buttery flavor, is a culinary experience like no other. Kobe, Matsusaka, and Hida beef are the top varieties.


Best Wagyu Restaurants


  • Kobe Steak Ishida (Kobe)

    A top spot for premium Kobe beef prepared teppanyaki-style.

  • Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M (Osaka)

    Specializes in Matsusaka beef, one of Japan’s most luxurious cuts.

  • Yoroniku (Tokyo)

    Offers a refined yakiniku dining experience with high-quality Wagyu.

5. Matcha Desserts: Sweet Meets Green Tea

Matcha, powdered green tea, is a beloved ingredient in Japanese desserts, from parfaits to mochi.


Best Matcha Dessert Spots

  • Nakamura Tokichi Honten (Kyoto)

    Famous for its matcha parfaits and traditional sweets.

  • Tsujiri (Kyoto)

    Renowned for matcha ice cream, lattes, and wagashi.

  • Gion Kinana (Kyoto)

    Known for its seasonal matcha desserts and intimate atmosphere.

6. Tempura: Light and Crispy Perfection

Tempura is a Japanese delicacy of lightly battered and fried seafood and vegetables.


Best Tempura Restaurants

  • Tempura Kondo (Tokyo)

    Michelin-starred for its delicate and flavorful tempura.

  • Tempura Motoyoshi (Tokyo)Known for its seasonal ingredients and innovative approach.

  • Tsunahachi (Tokyo)Offers a traditional tempura dining experience.

7. Okonomiyaki: Japanese Savory Pancakes

Often referred to as "Japanese pizza," Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with batter, shredded cabbage, and a variety of toppings such as pork, seafood, and cheese. It’s cooked on a hot griddle, and the name "okonomiyaki" means "grilled as you like it," reflecting the dish's customizable nature.


Best Okonomiyaki Restaurants


  • Okonomiyaki Mizuno (Osaka)

    A family-run restaurant known for its yam-based okonomiyaki, offering a unique twist on the classic dish.

  • Kiji (Osaka)

    Located in the iconic Umeda Sky Building, this spot serves authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki in a cozy atmosphere.

  • Botejyu (Osaka)

    A long-standing chain offering modern variations of okonomiyaki, including seafood and cheese options.

Pro Tip: Try a DIY okonomiyaki experience at a teppan-style restaurant where you can grill it yourself—it’s fun and interactive!

A chef preparing okonomiyaki on a teppan grill, pouring batter and toppings onto the hot surface. Highlights the interactive and customizable nature of this Japanese savory pancake, a must-try food in Japan.

8. Soba: Japan’s Traditional Buckwheat Noodles

Soba noodles, made from buckwheat flour, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They can be served cold with a dipping sauce (zaru soba) or in a hot broth for a comforting meal. Soba is not just delicious but also a healthier noodle option.


Best Soba Restaurants


  • Yabu Soba (Tokyo)

    One of the oldest soba establishments in Tokyo, known for its authentic zaru soba.

  • Owariya (Kyoto)

    A historic soba restaurant that has been serving locals and travelers for over 500 years.

  • Kanda Matsuya (Tokyo)

    A charming spot where soba noodles are made fresh daily using traditional techniques.

Pro Tip: For the full soba experience, pair cold zaru soba with tempura or warm soba with mountain vegetables (sansai).

A plate of freshly prepared soba noodles garnished with vegetables and

Tips for Food Lovers in Japan


  • Plan Ahead: Many popular restaurants require reservations, especially Michelin-starred ones.

  • Visit Markets: Explore local markets like Tsukiji in Tokyo or Kuromon Ichiba in Osaka for authentic street food experiences.

  • Respect Dining Etiquette: Follow Japanese customs, such as not sticking chopsticks upright in rice or talking loudly in restaurants.


Japan offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. Whether you’re savoring sushi in Tokyo, slurping ramen in Fukuoka, or indulging in matcha desserts in Kyoto, every bite is a journey into Japan’s rich culture.

Plan your culinary adventure today and share your favorite Japanese dish in the comments!

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