Must-Try Local Foods in Asakusa & Tips for Foreign Visitors Dining Out
1. Iconic Asakusa Dishes You Must Try
1.1 Traditional Japanese Sweets and Desserts
1.1.1 Dorayaki – Fluffy Pancakes Filled with Sweet Red Bean
Dorayaki is a beloved Japanese confection consisting of two soft, fluffy pancakes filled with anko (sweet red bean paste). This treat is famous for its delicate balance of sweetness and texture. In Asakusa, many shops specialize in dorayaki, offering variations with custard, matcha, or chocolate fillings. A must-visit spot is Kameju, known for its exceptionally thick and pillowy dorayaki that melts in your mouth.
1.1.2 Ningyo-yaki – Cute-Shaped Sponge Cakes
Ningyo-yaki, meaning "doll-shaped cakes," are small, fluffy sponge cakes typically filled with sweet red bean paste. These cakes are molded into various shapes, such as pagodas, lanterns, or traditional masks, making them a fun and delicious souvenir. Freshly baked ningyo-yaki can be found along Nakamise Street, where vendors cook them in front of customers using iron molds for a perfect golden-brown finish.
1.1.3 Agemanju – Crispy Deep-Fried Sweet Buns
Agemanju is a deep-fried version of manju, a traditional Japanese bun filled with sweet fillings like anko or custard. The crispy, golden-brown exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, warm filling, making it an irresistible street food snack. A popular shop in Asakusa, Asakusa Kyuju, serves freshly fried agemanju with seasonal flavors like matcha and sweet potato.
1.1.4 Kibi Dango – Soft Mochi Covered in Sweet Soy Flour
Kibi dango is a traditional Japanese sweet made from glutinous millet flour, giving it a uniquely soft and chewy texture. These bite-sized dumplings are coated with kinako (roasted soybean flour), adding a nutty, lightly sweet flavor. Originating from the Edo period, kibi dango is still enjoyed today, especially at Azuma, where visitors can watch the dango being freshly prepared.
1.2 Savory Street Foods for a Quick Bite
1.2.1 Menchi Katsu – Juicy Deep-Fried Minced Meat Cutlet
Menchi katsu is a crispy, deep-fried minced meat cutlet, bursting with flavorful juices. It combines ground pork and beef, seasoned with onions and spices, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection. One of the best places to try menchi katsu in Asakusa is Asakusa Menchi, where their thick-cut katsu is served piping hot, making it a perfect snack for strolling through Nakamise Street.
1.2.2 Taiyaki – Fish-Shaped Pancakes with Various Fillings
Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake filled with delicious fillings like red bean paste, custard, or chocolate. The crispy outer layer contrasts with the soft, warm interior, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. In Asakusa, Naniwaya Sohonten is a well-known taiyaki shop that has been serving this classic treat for decades, keeping its crispy exterior and rich filling recipe unchanged.
1.2.3 Karē Pan – Crispy Japanese Curry Bread
Karē pan, or Japanese curry bread, is a deep-fried bread roll stuffed with flavorful Japanese curry. The crispy, golden crust provides the perfect contrast to the rich and mildly spicy filling. One of the best places to try karē pan in Asakusa is Toyofuku, where they use high-quality wagyu beef curry for an indulgent taste.
1.2.4 Takosen – Octopus Crackers with a Savory Twist
Takosen is a unique street food snack made by sandwiching octopus-filled batter between two crispy rice crackers. This crunchy, savory treat combines the umami-rich taste of octopus with the crispiness of senbei (rice crackers), making it an ideal quick bite while exploring Asakusa. Takosen shops near Sensō-ji Temple are especially popular, offering freshly made versions with soy sauce and mayonnaise toppings.
1.3 Famous Local Restaurants Serving Hearty Meals
1.3.1 Tempura Donburi – Crispy Tempura Over Rice
Tempura donburi, or tendon, is a satisfying meal featuring crispy, deep-fried tempura placed over a bowl of steamed rice and drizzled with a sweet-savory sauce. Asakusa is home to Daikokuya, a legendary tempura restaurant that has been serving tempura donburi for over 100 years. Their thick, golden tempura and perfectly balanced sauce make it a must-try dish.
1.3.2 Sukiyaki & Shabu-Shabu – Premium Japanese Hot Pot
Sukiyaki and shabu-shabu are hot pot dishes featuring thinly sliced beef cooked in a rich broth. In sukiyaki, the beef is simmered in a sweet soy-based sauce, while in shabu-shabu, it is dipped briefly in boiling water before being enjoyed with ponzu or sesame sauce. Asakusa Imahan is the top choice for high-quality wagyu beef sukiyaki, offering an unforgettable dining experience.
1.3.3 Unagi (Grilled Eel) – A Delicacy of Asakusa
Unagi, or grilled eel, is a delicacy in Japan, known for its rich, smoky flavor and soft, tender texture. The eel is glazed with a special sweet soy sauce and grilled over charcoal, giving it a deep umami taste. For the best unagi in Asakusa, visit Unatetsu, where they have been serving Edo-style grilled eel for generations.
1.3.4 Monjayaki – Tokyo’s Unique Pan-Fried Dish
Monjayaki is a Tokyo specialty similar to okonomiyaki but with a runnier, more flavorful batter. Made with flour, cabbage, seafood, and other ingredients, monjayaki is cooked on a hot iron plate and eaten directly from the grill using a small spatula. Tsukishima Monja Street, just a short trip from Asakusa, is the best place to try this dish, with dozens of restaurants specializing in monjayaki.
2. Where to Find the Best Food in Asakusa
2.1 Nakamise Street – A Paradise for Traditional Sweets
2.1.1 Best Shops for Dorayaki and Ningyo-yaki
Nakamise Street, the bustling shopping lane leading to Sensō-ji Temple, is home to some of the best traditional Japanese sweets in Asakusa. Kameju is a legendary shop renowned for its fluffy dorayaki, filled with smooth and sweet red bean paste. Another must-visit is Shichibee Ningyo-yaki, where you can watch freshly baked ningyo-yaki being made in various shapes, such as pagodas and lucky charms. These treats make perfect snacks or souvenirs.
2.1.2 Where to Try Handmade Senbei (Rice Crackers)
Senbei, or crispy Japanese rice crackers, are a popular street snack in Asakusa. Many shops along Nakamise Street offer handmade senbei, grilled over charcoal and coated with soy sauce for an authentic smoky flavor. Asakusa Iriyama Senbei is one of the most famous stores, offering both thin, crispy senbei and thick, crunchy varieties. Some shops even allow visitors to customize their own rice crackers, making it a fun and tasty experience.
2.1.3 Ice Cream and Matcha-Flavored Desserts
For those looking to cool down, Nakamise Street is filled with matcha (green tea) ice cream and other traditional Japanese sweets. Suzukien is a must-visit shop, known for its rich, high-quality matcha gelato, with flavors ranging from light to intensely bitter. Another popular choice is Nanaya, which offers one of the strongest matcha ice creams in the world. Soft-serve ice cream with flavors like sakura (cherry blossom) and black sesame can also be found along the street.
2.1.4 Popular Local Bakeries for Sweet Bread & Melon Pan
Asakusa is home to one of Japan’s most famous melon pan (sweet, crispy bread rolls). Asakusa Kagetsudo is legendary for its jumbo melon pan, which has a crispy, sugary crust and a soft, fluffy interior. The shop has been operating for decades, drawing both locals and tourists. If you prefer something different, check out Janomeya, which offers red bean-filled and custard-filled variations of melon pan.
2.2 Hoppy Street – The Best Place for Izakaya and Drinks
2.2.1 Local Izakayas Serving Grilled Skewers & Beer
Hoppy Street, located near Sensō-ji Temple, is the ultimate destination for traditional Japanese izakayas. This lively alley is lined with small, old-fashioned pubs that serve yakitori (grilled skewers), oden (hot pot dishes), and beer. Kawamuraya is a popular izakaya known for its charcoal-grilled skewers and friendly atmosphere. Many of these spots have open-air seating, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the lively local nightlife.
2.2.2 Trying Nikomi – A Slow-Cooked Beef Stew Specialty
A specialty of Hoppy Street is nikomi, a slow-cooked beef tendon stew simmered in a rich miso-based broth. This dish is a staple of many izakayas and pairs perfectly with drinks. Daikokuya Hoppy Street Branch is famous for its flavorful nikomi, which is served hot and tender, absorbing all the umami-rich miso broth. If you love hearty, comforting food, this dish is a must-try.
2.2.3 The Unique Taste of Hoppy – A Low-Alcohol Beer Alternative
Hoppy Street is named after "Hoppy", a unique Japanese beverage that resembles beer but contains less alcohol. Hoppy is traditionally mixed with shochu (a Japanese distilled spirit), creating a refreshing and easy-to-drink alternative to beer. Many izakayas on this street serve Hoppy in a chilled glass with ice, allowing customers to adjust the alcohol content by adding more or less shochu.
2.2.4 Best Places for Traditional Sake & Shochu
For those who prefer sake or shochu, Hoppy Street has several izakayas offering a wide variety of Japanese alcoholic drinks. Tensho is a hidden gem known for its impressive sake collection, while Asakusa Tsurukame specializes in shochu from different regions of Japan. Visitors can enjoy their drinks with regional Japanese snacks, such as dried fish, miso-marinated tofu, and pickled vegetables.
2.3 Restaurants with a Historic Legacy
2.3.1 Famous Tempura Restaurants with a 100-Year History
Asakusa is home to some of Tokyo’s most historic tempura restaurants, with a history dating back over 100 years. Daikokuya is the most famous, serving crispy tempura bowls (tendon) topped with a rich soy-based sauce. The tempura is fried in sesame oil, giving it a distinctively rich aroma. Another classic spot is Namiki Yabu Soba, which serves tempura alongside traditional Edo-style soba noodles.
2.3.2 Traditional Sushi Shops Serving Edo-Style Sushi
Asakusa is an excellent place to try Edo-style sushi, a traditional Tokyo variation that often includes vinegar-marinated fish and slightly sweet rice. Sushisei is one of the top sushi restaurants in the area, offering fresh nigiri and sashimi made from locally sourced seafood. Another well-known establishment, Bentenyama Miyako Sushi, has been serving authentic Edomae sushi for over a century.
2.3.3 Asakusa’s Most Loved Soba and Udon Noodle Shops
For noodle lovers, Asakusa offers many historic soba and udon shops. Namiki Yabu Soba is a must-visit for its handmade buckwheat soba noodles served in a delicate dipping sauce. If you prefer thicker udon noodles, Owariya is a great spot offering chewy, flavorful udon served in hot or cold broth. These restaurants retain a traditional Edo-period atmosphere, making them a perfect place to experience authentic Japanese culture.
2.3.4 Best Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) Restaurants in the Area
For meat lovers, Asakusa has some excellent yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurants that serve premium wagyu beef. Yakiniku Motoyama is famous for its A5-grade Japanese wagyu, allowing diners to grill their own cuts of succulent, marbled beef. Another great spot is Honetsukidori Sumibiyaki, known for its charcoal-grilled beef ribs and house-made dipping sauces. These restaurants offer a unique and interactive dining experience.
3. How Foreign Visitors Can Enjoy Dining in Asakusa
3.1 Understanding Japanese Restaurant Etiquette
3.1.1 How to Order Food in a Non-English Menu Restaurant
Many local restaurants in Asakusa may not have English menus, but there are several ways to navigate this. Some places provide picture menus, making it easy to point at what you want. If a restaurant has no English menu, Google Translate’s camera function can help decode Japanese text. Alternatively, knowing a few simple Japanese phrases, such as "Osusume wa nan desu ka?" (What do you recommend?), can help staff suggest popular dishes.
3.1.2 Proper Chopstick Etiquette and Dining Manners
Chopstick manners are important in Japan. Never stick chopsticks upright in rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual. Avoid passing food directly from chopstick to chopstick, as this mimics a cremation practice. Instead, use the opposite end of chopsticks when sharing food. Additionally, slurping noodles is considered polite and shows appreciation for the meal, unlike in Western dining culture.
3.1.3 When and How to Say "Itadakimasu" and "Gochisousama"
Before eating, Japanese people say "Itadakimasu", which means "I humbly receive", to show gratitude for the meal. After finishing, saying "Gochisousama deshita" expresses appreciation for the food and the chef’s effort. These phrases are not only respectful but also enhance the cultural dining experience, making visitors feel more connected to local customs.
3.1.4 Cash or Card? Payment Methods in Local Restaurants
Many traditional restaurants and street food vendors in Asakusa still prefer cash payments, although major chains and modern establishments may accept credit cards or IC cards (Suica, Pasmo). It’s recommended to carry enough yen in cash, especially when dining at smaller, family-owned eateries. Some restaurants operate on a prepaid ticket system, where customers purchase meal tickets from a vending machine before sitting down.
3.2 Best Times to Visit Popular Restaurants
3.2.1 Avoiding Crowds During Peak Hours
Asakusa is a popular tourist destination, meaning famous restaurants often have long queues. To avoid waiting, visit during off-peak hours, such as before 11:30 AM for lunch or after 2:30 PM. Dinner hours between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM can be particularly crowded, so arriving slightly earlier or later can help secure a table without a long wait.
3.2.2 Why Early Mornings are Perfect for Famous Sweets
Many dessert shops, like Asakusa Kagetsudo (melon pan) or Kameju (dorayaki), sell out quickly due to their popularity. Arriving right when they open (usually around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM) ensures that you get the freshest items with minimal waiting time. Mornings also offer a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing visitors to enjoy their treats without the midday rush.
3.2.3 Late-Night Dining – Where to Eat After 10 PM
Unlike other areas in Tokyo, many Asakusa restaurants close relatively early. However, some izakayas on Hoppy Street stay open late, serving grilled skewers and local drinks. Yoroiya Ramen and Ippudo are great late-night ramen options, while some yakiniku (BBQ) restaurants, like Honetsukidori Sumibiyaki, cater to those craving grilled meats past 10 PM.
3.2.4 Booking a Table at High-Demand Restaurants
Famous restaurants like Asakusa Imahan (sukiyaki) and Daikokuya (tempura donburi) often require reservations, especially for dinner. Some restaurants accept online bookings via their websites or platforms like Gurunavi and Tabelog. If calling to reserve, learning a simple phrase like "Yoyaku o onegaishimasu" (I would like to make a reservation) can be helpful.
3.3 Must-Know Japanese Phrases for Dining Out
3.3.1 How to Ask for a Menu in English
Many restaurants do not have English menus, but asking politely can help. Try saying:
"Eigo no menyuu wa arimasu ka?" (Do you have an English menu?)
If an English menu is unavailable, the staff might recommend dishes using gestures or pointing to popular items.
3.3.2 Ordering Food with Simple Japanese Phrases
Knowing basic Japanese phrases makes ordering food easier. Useful expressions include:
"Kore o kudasai" (I’ll have this, please) – while pointing at a menu item
"Osusume wa nan desu ka?" (What do you recommend?) – to ask for suggestions
"O-mizu o kudasai" (Can I have some water, please?)
Most restaurant staff are used to serving tourists, so don’t hesitate to use simple English words combined with gestures.
3.3.3 How to Request Adjustments for Dietary Restrictions
If you have dietary restrictions, use these phrases:
"Niku nashi de onegaishimasu" (No meat, please)
"Watashi wa bejitarian desu" (I’m a vegetarian)
"Arerugii ga arimasu" (I have an allergy) – followed by the food you’re allergic to
While some restaurants may not accommodate specific requests, explaining politely can help the staff understand your needs.
3.3.4 Expressing Gratitude After a Great Meal
A simple "Arigatou gozaimashita" (Thank you very much) when leaving the restaurant is appreciated by staff. If you particularly enjoyed the meal, you can say:
"Totemo oishikatta desu" (It was very delicious!)
This small effort can leave a great impression and show respect for Japanese hospitality.
4. Unique Food Experiences in Asakusa
4.1 Hands-On Culinary Experiences for Tourists
4.1.1 Participating in a Sushi-Making Workshop
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Japanese food culture is by joining a sushi-making workshop in Asakusa. These classes are designed for beginners and teach the basics of making nigiri and maki sushi, using fresh ingredients sourced from local markets. Some workshops also include a history lesson on Edo-style sushi, giving participants a deeper appreciation of this iconic dish. Many sushi-making classes are available with English-speaking instructors, making them a perfect activity for international visitors.
4.1.2 Trying a Traditional Tea Ceremony in Asakusa
For those interested in Japanese traditions, a tea ceremony experience in Asakusa offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of matcha preparation. Tea houses such as Chazen Asakusa provide sessions where guests can whisk their own matcha tea and enjoy it with traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets). The ceremony follows strict etiquette, emphasizing mindfulness and appreciation for hospitality. This experience is a must-try for those wanting a deeper connection to Japanese culture.
4.1.3 Learning to Make Wagashi (Japanese Sweets)
Asakusa is famous for its traditional Japanese sweets, and some confectionery shops offer hands-on wagashi-making experiences. In these workshops, participants learn how to craft beautiful sweets like nerikiri (colorful, handcrafted sweets made from bean paste and mochi), often shaped into seasonal motifs like cherry blossoms or maple leaves. The classes provide a fun, interactive way to explore Japan’s dessert culture, with many shops allowing guests to take home their creations as souvenirs.
4.1.4 Experiencing a Sake Tasting Tour
For those interested in Japanese beverages, a sake tasting tour in Asakusa is an excellent way to discover different types of nihonshu (sake). Some izakayas and specialty bars offer guided tastings, where participants can sample a variety of dry, sweet, and fruity sakes while learning about brewing techniques and regional variations. Popular spots like Kurand Sake Market allow visitors to taste over 100 varieties of sake, making it an unforgettable experience for food and drink enthusiasts.
4.2 Seasonal Food Festivals and Limited-Time Events
4.2.1 Summer Festivals Featuring Exclusive Street Food
During summer, Asakusa hosts lively festivals where visitors can enjoy limited-time street food specialties. At events like Sanja Matsuri and Sumida River Fireworks Festival, stalls sell yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), kakigori (shaved ice), and takoyaki (octopus balls). Many vendors also offer festive sweets such as choco bananas and taiyaki, creating an exciting food experience while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of a Japanese festival.
4.2.2 New Year’s Special Osechi Cuisine & Soba Tradition
Asakusa is a popular destination during New Year’s, where visitors can experience osechi ryori, a traditional New Year’s feast consisting of symbolic dishes like sweet black beans (for health) and herring roe (for prosperity). Another important tradition is eating toshikoshi soba (year-crossing noodles) at famous soba shops like Namiki Yabu Soba, believed to bring good fortune and longevity. This is a great opportunity to witness Japanese New Year’s customs through food.
4.2.3 Autumn’s Sweet Potato and Chestnut-Themed Dishes
Autumn in Asakusa is the season of chestnuts and sweet potatoes, with many shops offering seasonal desserts and snacks. Popular items include sweet potato cakes, roasted chestnuts, and imo yokan (sweet potato jelly). Many cafes serve chestnut mont blanc cakes and matcha-infused seasonal desserts, making autumn a perfect time to explore unique flavors inspired by Japan’s fall harvest.
4.2.4 Cherry Blossom-Themed Sweets and Drinks in Spring
Spring in Japan means sakura (cherry blossom) season, and Asakusa celebrates with a variety of sakura-themed sweets and drinks. Shops and cafes introduce limited-time treats like sakura mochi, pink-colored lattes, and floral-inspired parfaits. Popular locations like Suzukien and Nanaya offer sakura-flavored gelato, making spring an ideal time to enjoy the seasonal beauty of Asakusa alongside its unique food offerings.
4.3 Exploring Modern Takes on Traditional Japanese Cuisine
4.3.1 Trendy Matcha Cafés & Modern Tea Houses
Asakusa is home to several trendy matcha cafés, where visitors can experience a modern twist on traditional Japanese tea culture. Popular spots like Suzukien serve matcha gelato with varying intensity levels, while Kinozen offers matcha tiramisu and matcha affogato. These contemporary tea houses attract both matcha lovers and casual visitors looking for Instagram-worthy desserts and drinks.
4.3.2 Fusion Japanese Burgers & Creative Sushi Rolls
For a modern take on Japanese flavors, fusion burgers and sushi rolls have become popular in Asakusa. Some restaurants offer wagyu beef burgers with miso-based sauces or teriyaki-glazed chicken burgers with Japanese pickles. Sushi bars like Sushiro provide creative sushi rolls incorporating ingredients like avocado, cheese, and spicy mayo, catering to those looking for a mix of Western and Japanese flavors.
4.3.3 Dessert Cafés with Unique, Instagram-Worthy Treats
Asakusa has embraced the global trend of Instagrammable desserts, with cafés offering visually stunning sweets that attract food lovers and photographers alike. Popular spots like Asakusa Naniwaya serve fish-shaped taiyaki filled with matcha cream, while Flipper’s Pancake Café is famous for its super fluffy soufflé pancakes topped with seasonal fruits. These modern takes on Japanese desserts offer a fun and interactive dining experience.
4.3.4 Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Japanese Dishes
With the rise in demand for vegan and vegetarian-friendly options, several Asakusa restaurants have started offering plant-based versions of traditional Japanese dishes. Komaki Shokudo specializes in Buddhist-style vegan meals, serving dishes like tofu katsu, vegetable tempura, and miso soup without fish-based broth. Some ramen shops also offer vegan ramen with soy milk-based broth, making Asakusa a great destination for plant-based travelers looking to explore Japanese cuisine.
From hands-on culinary workshops to seasonal food festivals and modern takes on classic Japanese cuisine, Asakusa offers a diverse and immersive food experience for visitors. Whether you're learning to make sushi, indulging in cherry blossom sweets, or tasting sake at a traditional izakaya, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Asakusa’s ever-evolving food scene!