I’ve been lucky enough to visit Japan twice so far (many more trips to come) and each visit has enhanced my appreciation and love for Japanese cuisine. In March I spent 5 days in Tokyo with my mom and little brother, touring the city in between meals.

These were my top 5 eats from this trip:

1. Sushi Breakfast @ Tsukiji Fish Market: 5-2-1 Tsukiji
   • A must, fresh sushi from the market, long line-ups, arrive by 6am!
   • SushiDai and Daiwa Sushi are the most famous and well known with set meals, expect 2-3 hour line ups
   • There are many other options in the area if you don’t want to line up
   • Try the uni, best I’ve ever tasted
2. Ramen @ Mutekiya Ramen: 1-17-1 Minamiikebukuro, Toshima
   • Rich, fatty broth, abundance of toppings
   • Small store, customers seated in batches, also be prepared to wait
3. Takoyaki @ Street Vendor: Near Meji Shrine
   • Freshly made, crispy outside and gooey centre
   • If your stomach can handle street food, the street vendors are a must try
4. Tempura @ Aoi Marushin: 1-4-4 Asakusa, Taito
   • The Asakusa area is known for Tempura
   • Aoi Marushin opened in 1946 and can seat large groups easily, which is harder to find in Tokyo and English friendly
   • Other options are Sansada, which has 150+ years of history (no English menu) or Tempura Daikokuya
5. Cake and Tea @ Harbs3F, Yokohama Landmark Plaza 2-2-1, Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama-city
   • Dessert is a must in Tokyo, the giant parfaits you see in anime? All real