Tokyo, the vibrant and dynamic capital city of Japan, is renowned for its bustling streets, neon lights, and cutting-edge technology. But one of the most enticing aspects of Tokyo’s rich culture is its diverse and delicious street food scene. Tokyo is a haven for foodies, with an array of delectable street foods that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Here are the top 5 best street foods in Tokyo that you should definitely try on your next visit.
Let’s discover top 5 best street food in Tokyo you should try
1. Monjayaki
Monjayaki is a popular street food in Tokyo that originated in the Tsukishima area. Often referred to as “Tokyo’s answer to okonomiyaki,” monjayaki is a savory pancake made with a batter of flour, water, and dashi, mixed with various ingredients such as cabbage, seafood, meat, and cheese. The batter is poured onto a hot griddle in a circular shape, and then it’s chopped and mixed with spatulas as it cooks to create a gooey, crispy texture. Once cooked, it’s usually topped with a sweet and savory sauce and mayonnaise. Eating monjayaki is an interactive experience, as diners typically use small spatulas to scrape the deliciously messy dish from the griddle and savor the unique combination of flavors and textures. Tsukishima, the birthplace of monjayaki, is the best place to try this quintessential Tokyo street food.
2. Yakisoba
Yakisoba, meaning “fried noodles,” is a popular Japanese street food that has found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of Tokyoites. It’s made by stir-frying Chinese-style wheat noodles with vegetables, meat (such as pork or chicken), and a sweet and savory sauce. The noodles are cooked on a hot griddle, and the dish is typically garnished with pickled ginger and bonito flakes for an added burst of flavor. Yakisoba is known for its deliciously smoky and tangy taste, and it’s often enjoyed as a quick and satisfying meal on the go. You can find yakisoba stalls in popular areas like Asakusa, Shinjuku, or Harajuku, where you can watch the skilled vendors expertly cook up this mouthwatering dish.
3. Katsu Sando
Katsu Sando, short for katsu sandwich, is a Japanese take on the classic sandwich that has gained popularity as a beloved street food in Tokyo. It consists of a breaded and deep-fried pork or chicken cutlet, known as tonkatsu or chicken katsu, sandwiched between slices of soft white bread and usually accompanied by shredded cabbage and a tangy sauce. The crispy and juicy katsu combined with the soft bread and refreshing cabbage create a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make katsu sando an irresistible street food option. You can find katsu sando stands in popular areas like Ginza or Shibuya, where you can enjoy this satisfying and delicious sandwich on the go.
4. Imo Mochi
Imo mochi, or sweet potato mochi, is a popular traditional street food in Tokyo that offers a delightful combination of chewy and sweet flavors. It’s made by pounding steamed sweet potatoes into a sticky and stretchy mochi dough, which is then rolled in kinako (toasted soybean flour) for a nutty flavor and slightly sweet coating. Imo mochi is typically served on a stick, making it a convenient and portable snack that can be enjoyed while strolling around the streets of Tokyo. It’s a perfect option for those with a sweet tooth who are looking for a unique and satisfying street food experience.
5. Yakitori
Yakitori, which translates to “grilled chicken,” is a classic Japanese street food that is loved by locals and tourists alike. Yakitori consists of skewered and grilled pieces of chicken, typically flavored with a sweet and savory sauce, and often served with a sprinkle of salt or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor. The most popular cuts of chicken used for yakitori include chicken breast, thighs, wings, and even chicken liver or skin. The skewers are grilled over charcoal, which imparts a delicious smoky flavor to the tender and juicy chicken. Yakitori stalls can be found all over Tokyo, particularly in the lively neighborhoods of Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro, where you can enjoy this succulent and flavorful street food while soaking in the energetic atmosphere of the city.
Tokyo’s street food scene is a treasure trove of culinary delights that should not be missed by any food lover. From savory to sweet, traditional to modern, the city offers a wide array of street foods that cater to all tastes. Monjayaki, yakisoba, katsu sando, imo mochi, and yakitori are just a few examples of the delicious street foods that Tokyo has to offer. Exploring the streets of Tokyo and indulging in these top 5 best street foods is not only a gastronomic adventure but also a cultural experience that will immerse you in the vibrant and diverse food culture of Japan. So, on your next trip to Tokyo, be sure to venture into the bustling streets and savor the mouthwatering flavors of these iconic street foods for an unforgettable culinary journey. Happy eating!
