7 Must-Try Lunch Spots in Tokyo's Ueno and Okachimachi for Food Lovers

Tokyo’s Ueno and Okachimachi areas are a treasure trove for food enthusiasts, with a rich tapestry of dining options that cater to all tastes. From the health-conscious to the indulgent, from the traditional to the innovative, these neighborhoods offer a gastronomic adventure that is both delightful and diverse. Join us as we explore seven lunch spots that stand out in this bustling part of Tokyo, each with its own unique charm and culinary delights.

1. Mr. Glass: A Vegetarian Oasis

Nestled a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station, Mr. Glass is a haven for those who appreciate the bounty of nature. This vegetable-centric restaurant has a warm, wood-themed interior that invites patrons of all ages, predominantly female, to enjoy its daily-changing lunch menu. The standout dish is the signature substitute plate, showcasing an array of about 20 freshly picked vegetables, all bursting with flavor and texture. The menu is completed with healthy tofu muffins, known for their chewy insides and crispy exteriors, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to wellness and taste.

2. Isen Honten: Mastering the Art of Chopstick-Cut Pork Cutlet

Just a 3-minute walk from Ueno Hirokoji, across the road from Matsuyano, Isen Honten is a time-honored establishment founded in 1930. Renowned for its foot-sliced pork cutlet, this restaurant has been recognized as one of Tabelog’s top 100. The interior is a mix of counter seats on the ground floor and tatami seating upstairs, frequented by a diverse clientele from young adults to octogenarians. The fillet cutlet set meal is the star of the menu, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that defies the norm with its ability to be cut with chopsticks. This dish is a testament to Isen Honten’s culinary prowess, rewriting the traditional concept of pork cutlets.

3. Crown Ace: A Budget-Friendly Curry Haven

Conveniently situated right across from Ueno Station’s ticket gate exit, Crown Ace is a curry lover’s dream. With a price point of only 450 yen, it’s the most affordable curry option a stone’s throw away from Ueno Station. The restaurant, located under a train overpass, offers about 10 counter-style seats, attracting a crowd ranging from their 30s to their 70s. Despite the basic menu, the curry is thick, slightly spicy, and boasts a delicious roux. While the pork belly may be on the tougher side and the rice quite flavorful, Crown Ace’s unbeatable location and price make it a go-to option for office workers looking for a quick, satisfying meal.

4. American Diner Andra: The Gourmet Burger Haven

A 5-minute walk from Ueno Station or Inaricho Station, American Diner Andra is a burger enthusiast’s paradise. With a counter and about 7 seats, plus additional tables, the diner is a popular spot for both solo office workers and families from the neighborhood. The specialty is a hamburger with cheese inside, complemented by a range of sandwiches and burritos. The cheeseburger set, priced at 2,500 yen, is a crowd-pleaser, with a meaty patty and surprisingly light cheese that perfectly complements the rich meat flavors. The live kitchen adds to the experience, allowing diners at the counter to witness the burger-making process firsthand.

5. Ueno Yabu Soba: A Taste of Tradition

Nestled between Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station, Ueno Yabu Soba is a long-standing soba restaurant founded in 1899. The restaurant exudes a historic Japanese atmosphere, appealing to solo travelers and families alike. The menu’s standout is the Nanoha Tenseirou, a set of generously sized shrimp, tails, and shishito peppers in a tempura steamer. The shrimp tempura is notably crunchy and satisfying, while the soba noodles have a smooth texture that satisfies. The Yabu soba is elegant and delicious, albeit on the pricier side. However, the restaurant’s charm lies in its ability to transport patrons back in time, offering a relaxing dining experience that honors Japanese traditions.

6. Cafe Kissa Musume: A Symphony of Japanese Sweets

Cafe Kissa Musume, located in the park and just a short walk from Ueno Seiyoken, is a must-visit for those seeking a unique Japanese sweet experience. Known for its fantastic desserts that can only be savored here, Cafe Kissa Musume is a delightful discovery. For lunch, Insho-tei, situated adjacent to Cafe Musume, is highly recommended. However, for a cafe sweet experience, Cafe Musume is the place to be. The cream anmitsu, featuring matcha ice cream and a touch of Ikuka, is a visual and taste sensation. The dish is a quartet of black, red, green, and white, with an array of handmade ingredients that harmonize beautifully. The cafe’s limited opening hours, from 3:00 to 5:00 in the evening, add to its exclusivity, making it a must-try for those in the know.

7. Biers Booth: A Hidden Gem of Cost-Effective Western Cuisine

A 5-minute walk from Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station, Biers Booth is a Western restaurant that boasts exceptional cost performance. This one-man operation by the owner is a true hidden gem, offering a serene space with 3 counter seats and 8 tables. The menu’s most popular dish, the grilled pork shoulder loin, is a delight for the senses. The generous serving of salad, featuring crunchy lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a curry-flavored carrot rapée, is a standout starter. The pork shoulder loin, served with steamy mashed potatoes and tomatoes with a hint of curry, is a meat lover’s dream. The combination of flavors and textures, coupled with the free bread to soak up the delicious sauces, makes Biers Booth a must-visit for those in search of a satisfying meal.

Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure in Ueno and Okachimachi

From the nourishing dishes at Mr. Glass to the innovative burgers at American Diner Andra, and from the traditional soba at Ueno Yabu Soba to the delightful sweets at Cafe Kissa Musume, Ueno and Okachimachi offer a diverse and delightful culinary landscape. Each restaurant on this list represents a unique facet of Tokyo’s rich food culture, inviting both locals and visitors to savor the flavors that have made these neighborhoods a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re in the mood for healthful eating, a gourmet burger, or a taste of tradition, these seven lunch spots are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a memorable dining experience.