Going to Japan!
Hi Food52,
I'm planning a trip to Japan for my husband and me, and I could use some help! We are starting in Tokyo, and possibly traveling after that to Hakone, Miyajima Island and Kyoto--although we're still open to other destinations. (It will be a winter trip.)
I have so many notes for places to eat, and specialty dishes I'd like to try, but I could use the help of someone who lives (of has traveled extensively) in the country, and has opinions on favorite spots, or must visit establishments.
For us, delicious food and great experiences are more important than "fancy" restaurants, although we are open to anything that will be a wonderful and memorable. experience. We're interested in experiencing the food of Japan as unobtrusively as possible.
Thanks so much!
Cristina
11 Comments
Also I love anago (saltwater conger eel) restaurants - I remember going to a really nice one on or near Tsukishima/Tsukiji but cannot find the exact location, will have to inquire. The most famous one in Tokyo is in Nihonbashi called Tamai - probably will be harder to get a table there but I heard its still top-notch anago.
Osaka is awesome, get the Takoyaki!! Also, you can get yakitori anywhere (my personal loose translation is 'food on a stick') yum!
A can-not-miss would be visiting any of gardens, many also have tea (Matcha) and pastries. Lastly,I recommend getting the Lonely Plant Japan travel book, came in handy. Enjoy your trip!!
If you haven't already, please read "Pretty Good #1" by Matthew Amster-Burton. It's a book about his stay in Tokyo and all the food to be enjoyed. It's a quick read, but after reading it, you will have a laundry list of foods to eat and food places to experience.
If you have Netflix instant streaming, check out "I'll have what Phil's having", Episode 1 is Tokyo.
My husband use to travel to Japan at least 4 times a year. At the beginning and the end of each trip, he heads to the ramen shop at the train station.
Bon Voyage! Hope there will be a future Food52 article on your trip ;)