Tokyo is home to some of the best street food in the world. From delicious crepes to classic okonomiyaki, you can find them all.
In Japan, food stalls can be found along the streets, at festivals, and anywhere they are allowed. Locally known as “yattai,” these small food stalls serve the most delicious Japanese delicacies you will ever find.
But not all street food stalls are created equal. Some are good; others are extremely good!
If you are wondering what to eat in the streets of Tokyo, we got covered. We created a list of the 10 Must-Try Street Foods in Tokyo.
1. Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with a batter of cabbage, flour, eggs, and other ingredients like pork belly or seafood. It is cooked on a hot griddle and topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and dried seaweed.
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2. Ramen
While ramen shops are typically sit-down establishments, some places in Tokyo offer quick and tasty bowls of ramen as street food. You can find small ramen stalls with limited seating that serve flavorful broth, chewy noodles, and various toppings.
3. Yakitori
Yakitori refers to skewered and grilled chicken pieces. You can find various parts of the chicken, such as thigh meat, liver, and skin, grilled to perfection and brushed with a sweet soy-based glaze.
4. Takoyaki
These are small, round-shaped batter balls filled with diced octopus, green onions, and pickled ginger. They are cooked on a special griddle and topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
5. Gyoza
Gyoza are Japanese dumplings filled with a mixture of ground meat (usually pork) and vegetables. They are pan-fried until crispy on one side and served with a soy-based dipping sauce.
6. Onigiri
Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a common grab-and-go snack in Tokyo. They are made by shaping cooked rice into triangular or cylindrical shapes and usually filled with ingredients like salmon, pickled plum, or grilled seaweed.
7. Crepes
Tokyo is famous for its crepe stands that offer a variety of sweet and savory fillings. These thin pancakes are filled with ingredients like fresh fruits, whipped cream, chocolate, ice cream, cheese, or even savory items like ham and cheese.
8. Taiyaki
Taiyaki is a popular fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. It is made from a pancake-like batter poured into a fish-shaped mold and then cooked until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
9. Tempura
While not exclusively street food, you can find tempura stands offering deep-fried vegetables, seafood, and other ingredients. Tempura is a crispy and flavorful option enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
10. Ichigo Daifuku
A delicious dessert made from sweet mochi (glutinous rice cake) filled with fresh strawberries and sweet red bean paste.
These are just a few examples of the street foods in Tokyo. Exploring different neighborhoods and streets, and visiting bustling food markets will offer you a chance to discover even more delicious and unique street foods.
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