October, 2011
This is before I truly became what is known today as a “Foodie” especially while travelling. Here are some of my go-to-spots across Japan!
Tokyo:
Yakitori Ton Ton – A local place under the train tracks should not to be missed! The perfect combination of meat on sticks and beer – enjoy skewers of chicken, pork, gizzard, or octopus. The options are endless with skewers grilled to perfection. Paired with a cold beer makes for a wonderful evening.
Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi Ginza – You may have had me at battered and fried seafood, meat and veggies! Lunch is always a cheaper option than dinner, so I tend to go with the ‘meal of the day’ having my bigger meal at lunch. What I loved here was the tempura. A more expensive meal, but completely worth it.
Zakuzaku – When in Tokyo you must visit the colorful character-filled neighborhood of Harajuku. Here you will find ice cream, fairy floss, street art, vintage clothing stores and did I mention ice cream? You can enjoy the Croquant Chou, which is a divine pastry used for cream puffs and eclairs – decadent indeed and similar to a churro, but filled with a smooth custard cream. There is also soft-serve ice cream layered with crunchy almonds in a glorious waffle cone – can’t decide, order both!
Toyota (Aichi Prefecture):
Shubhakaman Toyota – This may just be the best Indian food I had in Japan! The butter chicken and naan bread was to die for – and I bet you can’t eat all the naan bread! The perfect combination of spice and flavours, at an affordable price. A nice change to the typical Japanese cuisine.
Pizzeria IL Faro – Sometimes you need to change it up and who doesn’t want to indulge in an authentic pizza and a glass of wine? The vibe here is Italian in Japan with a cozy atmosphere, Italian music in the background and hints of wood smoke lingering in the air. My favourite pizza was the margherita con prosciutto e rucola and don’t forget to leave room for the tiramisu!
Teppanyaki Dan – Get enchanted by the magic of teppanyaki! This restaurant is small, so make a reservation in advance and grab a table at the counter so you can marvel at the chef’s performance up close. All your senses will engage the flavours, the atmosphere, and the talent!
Nayoga:
Delizioso Italia Da Ebisu – Most nights I typically enjoyed the spread at the Marriott in the Lounge while in Nayoga, but this was delicious and close by. Sometimes you just need something different so why not Italian? Lots of great wine and food to choose from and who can go wrong with melon wrapped with prosciutto the perfect combination of sweet and salty. Well, you may have just had me at prosciutto…
Kihachi Nagoya JR Central Towers – Taking it up a notch – enjoy this unique atmosphere where a wine cellar greets customers at the entrance. Serving French cuisine and fabulous wine in a dynamic setting. A more formal vibe, but worthwhile to treat yourself for at least one night.
Kyoto:
Nishiki Market – The perfect place for variety including street food, snacks, and desserts! Perhaps not necessarily the traditional cuisine you might find, but variety is the spice of life and of course lots of ice cream stalls to choose from for dessert!
AWOMB – Want a truly unique experience then book this place in advance! Sushi with a twist – giving you the play-by-play instructions on how to eat what looks extremely complicated. A great venue – cozy and bright, filled with light and a platter of food which will make your taste buds explode with the flavours and textures. The arrangement of food is captured beautifully. I recommend heading to the location in the Gion district.
Toba:
Ama Hut Hachimankamado – Picture this, lunch or dinner grilled by AMA divers who have devoted their entire lives diving for seafood. Fresh shellfish, lobster and mackerel paired with Sake or cold beer or even hot tea – you can’t go wrong. My advice for this place, don’t judge a book by its cover as an unforgettable experience inside awaits you.
