Tokyo
Tokyo's dining scene has more restaurants per capita than Paris or New York, and is not only densely packed, but also of a very high standard. A great place to start with Tokyo cuisine is the "Four Kings of Edo": tempura, soba, sushi, and eel. These four dishes were popular starting in the late 1800s when Tokyo flourished as Japan's new capital, and they're still popular today.
When it comes to sushi, pay special attention to the nigiri-style version of sushi that originated in Tokyo, officially called Edomae sushi. Mastering this style means perfecting nuances like the compactness of the pressed rice and the way the fish is cut to catch the seasonings and enhance the umami. At Tsukiji Outer Market and nearby Ginza, the Edomae sushi tradition continues to this day, with a number of excellent restaurants offering everything from sumptuous omakase sushi courses to convenient stand-up style sushi.
The high quality of Tokyo's dining scene is often owed to the street vendors of the Edo period (1603-1868), and stiff competition drove quality, with Tokyo earning more Michelin stars than any other city. It is now decorated with stars. world. These awards are not limited to traditional Japanese cuisine. Local chefs are adept at taking foreign cuisine and perfecting it while often adding a Japanese twist. And like many Michelin-starred restaurants, it's not limited to chefs with deep pockets. Cheap lunch set menu.
Even if Tokyo is your only destination, you can take a culinary journey across the country at restaurants in the city that specialize in cuisine from other Tokyo prefectures. Tokyo is truly a one-stop destination for all things Japanese.