As a seasoned chef and restaurateur, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing countless culinary delights from around the world. Having spent a significant portion of my career in Tokyo, the city’s vibrant food scene has left an indelible mark on me. In this bustling metropolis, one can find a diverse array of flavors and dishes that cater to every palate.
You may be familiar with Nobu Matsuhisa, the renowned Japanese chef, whether it’s through his original restaurant in Los Angeles, the numerous Nobu restaurants worldwide (over 50), or the expanding collection of Nobu hotels and resorts.
Chef Nobu’s reputation has flourished since the launch of his first restaurant in 1987, drawing in celebrities and food enthusiasts alike who have been loyal patrons for years. With his exceptional skills in sushi making and hospitality, Chef Nobu has built a trusted brand renowned for its distinctive cuisine and unwavering service. As a result, many look to him for culinary advice around the globe. Given his frequent travels between Tokyo and Los Angeles, these cities hold unique insights that he knows intimately.
To give you a more intimate peek into the culinary preferences of Chef Nobu, he has generously revealed some top-notch dining spots in Tokyo, Japan, for delectable bites. Peruse the list below and click here to save all his suggestions on Google Maps for effortless access later.
For Tonkatsu: Tonkatsu Maisen
In Tokyo, Tonkatsu Maisen is a long-standing favorite among both locals and visitors. We were taken aback by Chef Nobu’s endorsement of this well-known, moderately popular, and often crowded eatery. Yet, we weren’t shocked by his praise for its consistently superb katsu. Keep in mind that lunch hours see the most traffic, so consider visiting earlier or later to avoid the crowds.
Tonkatsu Maisen
4 Chome-8-5 Jingumae
Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
For Japanese BBQ: Tokori Yaesu
At Yakiniku, Chef Nobu suggested checking out the Tokori restaurants dispersed throughout Tokyo. This restaurant chain is distinguished for its meticulous selection of high-quality “black” wagyu beef cuts with exceptional marbling.
Tokori Yaesu
1 Chome−3−7 B1F Yaesu
Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0028
For Tempura: Kagurazaka Ozashiki Tempura Tenko
In Japanese cuisine, Tempura stands out as a signature dish, and the proficient chef prefers Tempura Tenko for its delightful, airy meal experience. This unassuming, snug eatery is not widely recognized, making it ideal to accompany a local guide if you feel uneasy about language barriers. Fortunately, there’s an associated restaurant – Tempura Arai – where you can secure a table should this one be fully booked.
Kagurazaka Ozashiki Tempura Tenko
3 Chome−１Kagurazaka
Shinjuku City, Tokyo, 162-0825
For Dumplings: Tohryu
Occasionally, renowned chefs in the food industry crave simple comfort dishes. For Nobu, that dish is gyoza. Though his restaurant, Azabu Juban, is celebrated for its Chinese cuisine, he particularly recommends Tohryu’s dumplings. Make sure to add these delectable morsels to your order when you dine there.
Tohryu
2 Chome-4-5 Azabujuban
Minato City, Tokyo 106-0045
For Japanese Grilled Eel: Unagi Obana
At Nobu’s restaurant, we weren’t shocked by his preference for Unagi Obana for eel dishes. Our Japanese editorial team is particularly fond of it. Do bring cash as they exclusively accept this form of payment, and be prepared to wait since they don’t take reservations. However, the exceptional Michelin-starred eel experience you’ll encounter will undoubtedly be worth your time and money.
Unagi Obana
5 Chome-33-1 Minamisenju
Arakawa City, Tokyo 116-0003
For Soba: Sarashina Horii
As a soba fan, I might not initially think of it as my go-to noodle choice in Tokyo’s vibrant food scene. However, esteemed Chef Nobu holds soba in great esteem, valuing it above ramen or udon. Looking back over centuries, Sarashina Horii has been dedicated to perfecting the art of buckwheat noodles. Their influence has extended far beyond Tokyo, reaching all the way to New York City where they proudly operate their second location.
Sarashina Horii
3 Chome-11-4 Motoazabu
Minato City, Tokyo 106-0046
For Chinese Food: Wakiya
In Japan, it’s not hard to come by Chinese food, but discovering the perfect spot for specific occasions can be a challenge. Chef Nobu suggests Wakiya as an excellent choice. This Michelin-starred, advanced reservation necessary establishment is renowned for exquisite Chinese delicacies such as shark fin, traditional noodle dishes, and harmonious meat and vegetable combinations. An ideal venue for commemorating special occasions.
Wakiya
6 Chome-11-10 Akasaka
Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052
For Sushi: Sushizen
As a big fan of Japanese cuisine and particularly sushi, I can’t imagine a list of must-visit locations in Japan without including a top-notch sushi place. And when it comes to sushi, Chef Nobu himself recommends Sushizen in Ginza for an unforgettable raw fish experience. However, be prepared to make reservations well in advance and put down a deposit to secure your table. The price range for their courses is quite substantial, ranging from ¥18,000 to 33,000 JPY.
Sushizen Ginzaten
7 Chome−8−10 Ginza
Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
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2024-07-25 16:26