6 Culinary Items To Try When In Shibuya, Tokyo

Shibuya, the vibrant and bustling district in Tokyo, is not just famous for its iconic Shibuya Crossing and trendy fashion boutiques. It’s also a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of culinary delights that cater to every palate. In this blog, we’ll embark on a gastronomic journey through Shibuya and explore the six best culinary delights that you simply must try when visiting this dynamic part of Tokyo.

Tempura & Udon

Tempura, the epitome of crispy perfection, holds a special place in Shibuya’s heart. Here, you’ll find tempura sets that showcase the art of deep-frying seafood and veggies to a golden crisp. The balance between crunch and tenderness is an art form, and Shibuya’s chefs have mastered it. Whether it’s a prawn or sweet potato, each bite is a crunchy delight. It’s tempura magic definitely. the comforting Japanese noodle bowl that’s beloved for its simplicity and heartiness. Udon noodles, thicker and chewier than soba, are often served in a warm and savory broth. Whether you opt for a classic kake udon with a clear soy-based broth or a hearty nabeyaki udon served in a hot pot, the essence of udon lies in its satisfying and comforting nature. Toppings may vary, from tempura pieces to green onions, but the noodles remain the star of the show.

Udon Shin: Udon Shin offers both hot and cold udon options, but the zaru udon variety appeared to be the crowd favorite, even in late November. If you’re looking to try something beyond the usual kake or bukake udon, consider indulging in the Hot Soy Sauce Udon with Butter and Pepper, topped with Tsumande Goran Egg and accompanied by Pork and Cheese Tempura, all for ¥1,940. It’s a unique and delightful choice for those seeking a departure from the ordinary.
Oniyanma: Satisfy your udon cravings at Gotanda’s standing-only noodle spot, open from early morning to late at night. Located just outside the station, this no-frills establishment offers udon bowls starting at an affordable ¥350. Don’t miss their freshly fried tempura, especially the popular chicken variety known as “toriten,” to accompany your noodles.

Yakitori

For a laid-back and delicious experience, let’s head to Shibuya’s yakitori bars. These gems specialize in skewered and grilled chicken seasoned with a variety of sauces and spices. The aroma of grilling meats fills the air as you enjoy an array of skewers. From juicy chicken thighs to flavorful tsukune (chicken meatballs), every skewer is grilled to perfection. Enjoy them with sake or a cold beer – it’s a taste of Japanese joy.

Toritamura: Toritamura is a yakitori restaurant that has been utilizing its time-honored, refined sauce with a subtle flavor since it first opened its doors in 1974. The sauce, crafted from a combination of two types of miso, is the highlight of this establishment, so make sure not to overlook it when you indulge in their yakitori offerings.
raku raku: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option to enjoy a variety of yakitori, Raku Raku Yakitori is the ideal choice. They offer 2-hour and 3-hour all-you-can-eat options, with the 2-hour course priced at just 1,980 yen. You have the freedom to select from a diverse menu of 65 dishes, ranging from salads and appetizers to fried items, both chicken and pork charcoal-grilled skewers, and even desserts.
sagoemon: Sagoemon, a well-loved yakitori establishment in Shibuya, draws in a diverse crowd of locals and international travelers alike. Its popularity stems from its excellent affordability, offering yakitori options for a mere 100 yen each. Their menu features a wide array of meat skewers, encompassing chicken, pork, and beef, all expertly grilled over top-notch charcoal.

Takoyaki

Now, let’s dive into the world of takoyaki, a quintessential Japanese street food. These savory balls are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them an absolute must-try in Shibuya. Takoyaki, literally meaning “grilled octopus,” are bite-sized spheres made from a batter of wheat flour, dashi (a Japanese cooking stock), and eggs. But what truly makes them special is the generous helping of tender octopus pieces tucked inside. Cooked in a special molded pan, takoyaki balls are skillfully flipped until they acquire a golden-brown hue. Once ready, they’re drizzled with a savory takoyaki sauce, a sprinkle of bonito flakes, and a dusting of seaweed flakes. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors: the crispy exterior, the creamy octopus, and the umami-rich toppings. Takoyaki stands are a common sight at street festivals, near temples and shrines, and along bustling shopping streets in Shibuya. These delicious morsels are a testament to the city’s vibrant street food culture.

Gindaco Shibuya: Gindaco Shibuya East Exit Branch, located incredibly close to Shibuya Station, puts octopus at the forefront of their takoyaki (octopus balls). What sets their takoyaki apart is its distinctive texture – crispy exteriors and creamy, soft interiors, making them a sensation. With a menu that changes with the seasons, each visit promises a fresh and exciting culinary experience.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki, often referred to as a Japanese pancake, is a savory delight that’s beloved throughout Japan. However, Shibuya has its own unique take on this iconic dish, making it a must-try when you’re in the district. The name “okonomiyaki” translates to “cooked as you like it,” and that’s precisely what makes this dish so special. At its core, okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made from a batter of flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and a variety of ingredients like seafood, pork, or cheese. In Shibuya, you’ll find restaurants and stalls that serve up their own interpretations of okonomiyaki, each with its twist. Some places might have a signature sauce or special toppings that set them apart. The fun part is that you can even cook your okonomiyaki at certain restaurants, allowing you to customize it exactly to your liking. Whether you prefer it loaded with seafood or packed with crispy bacon, okonomiyaki is a versatile and delicious culinary experience that you shouldn’t miss.

Wahaha Fugetsu: Just a short one-minute walk from the train station along Meiji Street, you’ll find Wahaha Fugetsu. Climb a few stairs to reach this establishment, and savor their renowned. This opulent okonomiyaki features an abundance of ingredients, including pork, beef, squid, and shrimp, making it the flagship dish of Fugetsu, a well-established restaurant with its primary location in Tsuruhashi.
Nonbee: Situated a mere 2-minute walk from Shibuya Station, this establishment takes great care in selecting and sourcing the finest cabbage, a vital component of okonomiyaki, based on the season and its place of origin. The cutting process may differ, but the cabbage is meticulously hand-cut each day, ensuring a consistent and uniform thinness.

Yakisoba

Yakisoba, a favorite Japanese comfort food, is another culinary delight that shines in Shibuya. These stir-fried noodles are a mouthwatering combination of chewy noodles, crisp vegetables, and your choice of protein, all coated in a sweet and savory sauce. The word “yakisoba” literally translates to “fried noodles,” and it’s a fitting description for this delectable dish. Despite its name, yakisoba noodles are not made from soba (buckwheat) but are typically made from wheat flour. When ordering yakisoba in Shibuya, you can expect an array of choices. From classic yakisoba with pork or chicken to vegetarian options with an assortment of veggies, the possibilities are endless. What ties them all together is the irresistible aroma and flavor of the yakisoba sauce. While yakisoba can be enjoyed at various restaurants in Shibuya, you’ll also find it served at street food stalls during festivals and events. It’s a quick, filling, and utterly satisfying dish that captures the essence of Japanese street food.

Mikasa: This place in Shibuya already boasts one of the lengthiest queues, and the true stars of their yakisoba dish are undoubtedly the noodles. Their house-made curly noodles are parboiled and then stir-fried at a high temperature, resulting in a delightful and ideal crunchy texture.

Taiyaki

After indulging in savory delights, it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth with taiyaki, a delightful fish-shaped pastry filled with a range of sweet fillings. Taiyaki, which translates to “grilled sea bream,” gets its name from its fish-like shape. However, there’s no seafood involved in this treat; it’s all about the fillings. The most traditional filling is anko, a sweet red bean paste, but you’ll also find options like custard, chocolate, sweet potato, and even savory fillings like cheese.The appeal of taiyaki lies not just in its delectable fillings but also in its crispy, golden-brown exterior. It’s a comforting and nostalgic treat for many, reminiscent of childhood trips to the local bakery. When exploring Shibuya, keep an eye out for taiyaki stalls or dedicated shops. It’s the perfect sweet snack to enjoy while strolling through the bustling streets of this lively district.

Taikoubou: Taikoubou, a prominent taiyaki maker in Tokyo, stands out by offering savory fillings within the typically sweet, fish-shaped cakes. If you have a sweet tooth, you can select from options such as tsubuan (coarse red bean paste), white bean paste, custard, matcha bean paste, or even ice cream. On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for something savory, they have options like the Buono taiyaki, which is generously filled with lasagne meat, cheese, and sausage, as well as the shirasu (whitebait) and cheese taiyaki.
Taiyaki hiiragi: In Ebisu, you’ll find a well-loved takeout dessert shop that offers freshly cooked taiyaki. These fish-shaped cakes are stuffed with a homemade sweet bean paste and then baked for approximately 30 minutes, resulting in the shop’s distinctive crispy outer layer.
Asakusa naniwaya: While this Asakusa establishment is most famous for its kakigori shaved ice, its taiyaki is also highly regarded. Similar to its original location in Azabu-Juban, they take their time slowly cooking the red bean paste for eight hours and hand-kneading it to ensure it achieves its fullest flavor potential.

Sushi

Let’s kick things off with the superstar of Japanese cuisine: sushi! Shibuya’s sushi spots are legendary for their commitment to freshness and precision. Whether you’re in for a high-end omakase experience or a fun conveyor belt adventure, you’re in for a treat. Each piece of sushi is a work of art, with the fish’s flavor exploding in your mouth. Nigiri sushi is a must-try – a small mound of vinegared rice topped with a slice of fresh fish and wrapped in seaweed. It’s simple yet exquisite.

Sushi no midori: Umegaoka Sushi No Midori Sohonten stands as one of Shibuya’s most frequented sushi destinations, drawing patrons from both within Japan and around the world. With seasoned sushi chefs at the helm, they craft sushi using meticulously chosen seasonal fish sourced from Tsukiji/Toyosu Market, paired with the finest rice hailing from Yamagata Prefecture.
Sushizanmaii: Sushizanmai, a renowned chain of sushi restaurants in Japan, houses its Shibuya branch on the fourth floor of the Dogenzaka Center Building. Sushizanmai takes pride in sourcing carefully selected fish from various regions across the country. Their specialty, the tuna, comes highly recommended and is a must-try for visitors.
Sushi gonpachi: Sushi Gonpachi, a premium sushi establishment in Shibuya, offers seasonal sushi that stands out in every season. Their well-curated selection of Japanese sake and wines complements their sushi perfectly. This luxury sushi restaurant is famous for hosting former U.S. President George W. Bush and former Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. Notably, the world-renowned film “Kill Bill” drew inspiration from Gonpachi.

Ramen

Our next stop is the ultimate comfort food: ramen. Shibuya’s ramen joints are a diverse bunch, each boasting its unique broth style. You can dive into a creamy tonkotsu, a spicy miso, or a delicate shoyu broth. The fragrance of simmering broth fills the air as you place your order, and don’t be shy about slurping those noodles – it’s all part of the experience. From chashu to soft-boiled eggs, the toppings are a symphony of flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Ichiran: Ichiran can be likened to the McDonald’s of ramen in Japan. It’s often the go-to choice when craving a straightforward yet tasty bowl of noodles, and the fact that it operates 24 hours adds to its convenience. If you prefer dining solo, you’re in luck; each seat is equipped with partitions, ensuring you can enjoy your meal in peace without any disturbances.
Hayashi: This Shibuya ramen establishment is often hailed as the finest, and it’s not without justification. Hayashi boasts a commitment to using exclusively natural seasonings and offers just one item on its menu, with two options: one includes a soft-boiled egg, and the other includes chashu.
Usagi: Usagi is known for its shoyu ramen, featuring a distinctively silky texture that sets it apart from the creamier broths found at many other establishments on this list. What makes Usagi unique is their incorporation of sous-vide-style chashu, a topping they were among the pioneers in popularizing.

Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is milder and sweeter compared to its Indian or Thai counterparts. It’s often served with breaded and fried meat cutlets (katsu) or on top of rice. The comforting flavors make it a popular choice among locals.

Haikkado soup curry: Originating from Hokkaido, this well-frequented soup curry eatery has found its home in Shibuya. Here, you can savor top-notch soup curry in a roomy dining space. While it’s worth noting that their prices are somewhat higher compared to typical curry and rice establishments, with offerings starting at approximately $8.
Mokubaza: When it comes to finding a trendy curry eatery in the Shibuya district, this is your go-to spot! Their Keema Curry and Cheese Keema Curry, in particular, make for visually stunning dishes and are particularly favored by female patrons.
Monaringo Harajuku: Situated in Harajuku, Tokyo’s premier tourist hotspot, this curry restaurant enjoys widespread popularity. Their Keema curry, in particular, is a crowd favorite. It has become a customary part of the sightseeing experience in Harajuku a day of shopping followed by a satisfying curry meal here.

Matcha Desserts and Mochi

Shibuya offers a wide variety of matcha (green tea) desserts, from matcha soft-serve ice cream to matcha-flavored cakes and parfaits. Don’t miss the opportunity to try these delightful and beautifully presented treats. Also, Mochi a delightful chewy rice cakes that are a beloved part of Japanese sweets. Mochi can be filled or flavored in various ways. Whether you’re biting into mochi filled with sweet red bean paste (anko), enjoying a matcha-flavored mochi, or savoring a delicate Sakura (cherry blossom) mochi, the unique texture and flavors of mochi are a delightful treat. Don’t miss the opportunity to try these sweet gems in Shibuya.