Tokyo's Top 10 Must-Try Lunch Spots: A Culinary Journey Through the City

Tokyo, the bustling metropolis that never ceases to amaze with its vibrant culinary scene, presents a plethora of dining options that cater to all palates and preferences. From traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavors, Tokyo’s food landscape is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. In this blog, we delve into the top 10 truly delicious lunch spots in Tokyo, handpicked from over 600 restaurants reviewed annually. Whether you’re a local looking to spice up your lunch routine or a traveler planning your next Tokyo adventure, this guide is your key to unlocking the city’s gastronomic gems.

10. Inaniwa Udon Tomeshi Kaneko Hannosuke: A Fusion of Udon and Tempura

Nestled in the heart of Coredo Muromachi 2, directly connected to Mitsukoshimae Station, Inaniwa Udon Tomeshi Kaneko Hannosuke is a delightful fusion of udon, tempura, and seafood bowls. The brainchild of Chef Kaneko Hannosuke, known for his famous tempura, this restaurant offers a serene atmosphere with Japanese aesthetics, attracting a diverse clientele from young adults to the elderly. Their Akita specialty Inaniwa udon is a must-try, complemented perfectly by fresh seafood and crispy tempura. If you’re a fan of Tsujihan’s Kaisendon or Kaneko Hannosuke’s Tendon, you’ll find the harmony of flavors at this restaurant equally tantalizing.

9. CHILLAX BURGERS & WINE: Ikebukuro’s Finest Burgers

Just a six-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station’s east exit, CHILLAX BURGERS & WINE is a haven for burger lovers. Known for their exquisite homemade hamburgers, this bright and clean space is frequented by office workers and groups, making it a bustling lunch spot. The highlight of the menu is the Smash Burger, a rage in America, where the patty is pressed to distribute meat juices evenly, trapping umami. Paired with homemade tartar sauce, honey mustard, and fresh, seasonal fries, CHILLAX BURGERS & WINE sets a new standard for burgers in Ikebukuro.

8. The Traditional Restaurant: A Vegetarian’s Delight

Tucked away behind Kabukiza in Higashi Ginza, The Traditional Restaurant is a savior for those craving pesticide-free vegetables. This restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring fresh vegetables grown in Chiba Prefecture, beautifully arranged and presented. The calm, wood-like atmosphere and predominantly female clientele make it a popular spot for a healthy and satisfying lunch. With a focus on the fresh taste of vegetables, this restaurant stands out from the typical salad bar experience.

7. Yagenbori: The Taste of a High-End Japanese Restaurant for a Fraction of the Price

Yagenbori, situated between Akasaka and Akasaka-mitsuke Stations, is a hidden gem where you can indulge in the flavors of a premium Japanese restaurant for a mere 1,000 yen during lunch. The dashimaki tamago, a signature dish, is a sight to behold at 15 cm in length, 20 cm in width, and 3 cm in height. Its fluffy texture and gentle dashi soup provide a soothing and satisfying dining experience. With counter and semi-private seating, Yagenbori is a delightful spot for a Japanese lunch that won’t break the bank.

6. Ginza Yoshitei: A Peking Duck Specialty Store

Ginza Yoshitei, located on the 7th floor of a building right next to Ginza 1-chome Station, offers a high-quality dining experience that is perfect for special occasions or casual lunches. The spacious and bright interior, coupled with views of Ginza, creates a relaxing atmosphere. The menu features a mapo tofu set meal that is both generous and spicy, served in a pot style to retain heat. The Keika Lunch Course, priced at 2,200 yen, includes an appetizer, shark fin soup, Peking duck, dim sum, sweet and sour pork, duck ramen, and dessert, making it an exceptional value for money.

5. CIRCULO: An Elegant Bistro for Fashionable Lunches

CIRCULO, found in the Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Main Branch Building next to Otemachi Station and Tokyo Station, is a chic bistro suitable for dates and girls’ night out. Its elegant space with wooden accents and terrace seating during the warm season make it a favorite among office workers and couples. The casual weekday lunch course features mascarpone cheese from Ohm Dairy, homemade marinated salmon, and dishes like red wine beef shank, each item showcasing exquisite quality. The Basque cheesecake and coffee complete a meal that delights both the heart and the stomach.

4. Bal Marche Kodama Steak & Lobster: An All-You-Can-Eat Delight

Bal Marche Kodama Steak & Lobster, located on the 2nd floor of Atre Meguro 2, directly connected to Meguro Station, offers an all-you-can-eat buffet of raw ham, roast beef, and canelé. This bright space, frequented by a mix of ages and group types, features a buffet table with prosciutto, marinated salad, and bread, among other items. The raw ham and meat, sourced from a butcher shop, are of exceptional quality, and the canelé is a must-try dessert. With a numbered ticket system, it’s best to plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid long waits.

3. Sushi Takumi: A Premier Sushi Experience

Sushi Takumi, a four-minute walk from Yotsuya Station, is a premier sushi restaurant that offers a 3,000 yen lunch on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. With 11 counter seats and one tatami room, this restaurant provides a luxurious dining experience usually reserved for dinner. The lunch course is a miniature version of the 40,000 yen dinner course, featuring a treasure box of seafood that bursts with flavor. Sushi Takumi’s light seasoning and small, elegant pieces allow diners to savor the true taste of the ingredients. Reservations are essential, as seats are limited.

2. Motsuyoshi Shibuya Store: All-You-Can-Eat Kyoto Obanzai

The Motsuyoshi Shibuya Store, a 10-minute walk from Shibuya Station on Center Gai, offers an all-you-can-eat Kyoto obanzai lunch for 1,500 yen. The 8th floor restaurant features a spacious and light-filled interior with a mix of customers from young to old. The lunch buffet includes a variety of dishes, from salad and mentaiko to rolled eggs and roast beef. The high-quality obanzai is a standout, making Motsuyoshi a satisfying choice for a lunch in Shibuya.

1. Pizza D’Abbo: Tokyo’s No. 1 Pizza

Pizza D’Abbo, a three-minute walk from Ningyocho Station and Suitengumae Station, is hailed as Tokyo’s No. 1 pizza, impressing even Michelin reviewers. The calm, wood-toned interior and spacious seating make it a comfortable spot for groups. The menu features pizza, pasta, and gratin, with Margherita and Quattro Formaggi pizzas as popular choices. The large-size pizza, measuring 27 cm, offers a filling lunch option. The chewy and fluffy dough, paired with melty cheese and basil on a slightly sour tomato base, creates a delightful pizza experience. Reservations are recommended for dinner and weekend lunches, as the restaurant can get crowded.

Conclusion

Tokyo’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, with each restaurant offering a unique and memorable lunch experience. From the traditional flavors of Inaniwa Udon Tomeshi Kaneko Hannosuke and The Traditional Restaurant to the innovative burgers of CHILLAX BURGERS & WINE and the luxurious sushi of Sushi Takumi, there’s a dining adventure waiting for every palate. Whether you’re planning a visit to Tokyo or seeking to explore the city’s diverse culinary offerings, this top 10 list is your guide to some of the most delicious and satisfying lunch spots in the city. So, grab your chopsticks or a fork, and let your taste buds embark on a Tokyo culinary journey. Bon appétit!