Do I Need to Tip in Japan?
A local explains Japan's no-tipping culture and what to expect.
Restaurant
83 articles
Can I Take Leftovers Home from Restaurants?
A local explains why doggy bags are not common in Japan.
Best Ramen at Tokyo Station's Ramen Street
A local recommends which ramen shops to try at Tokyo Ramen Street.
Can I Ask for a Fork Instead of Chopsticks?
A local explains that forks and spoons are available at most restaurants.
Where to Find the Best Japanese Cheesecake
A local recommends the best cheesecake spots in Tokyo.
Where to Find Good Coffee in Japan
A local explains kissaten culture and recommends Tokyo's best coffee shops.
Does Ichiran Have Kids Portions?
A local explains Ichiran's children's menu and free kids ramen policy.
Is Expensive Sushi Worth It?
A local compares high-end sushi restaurants with conveyor belt sushi.
Is Fugu Safe to Eat in Tokyo?
A local explains fugu (pufferfish) safety and recommends top restaurants in Ginza.
How to Try Japanese Whisky
A local's guide to Japanese whisky. What to try and where to buy.
What Beer Should I Try in Japan?
A local's guide to Japanese beer. Brands, styles, and where to drink.
What Is Okonomiyaki? Japanese Savory Pancake Guide
A local explains okonomiyaki. Osaka vs Hiroshima style and how to eat it.
What Is Traditional Japanese Breakfast Like?
A local explains Japanese breakfast. What to expect at ryokans and hotels.
How Does Yakiniku Work? Japanese BBQ Guide
A local explains yakiniku. How to order, cook, and enjoy Japanese BBQ.
What Is Tempura? Guide to Japanese Fried Perfection
A local explains tempura. What to order, how to eat, and where to try it.
Where to Find Affordable Shabu Shabu in Ueno and Asakusa?
A local recommends budget-friendly shabu shabu and sukiyaki spots near Ueno and Asakusa.
What Is Gyudon? Guide to Japanese Beef Bowl Chains
A local explains gyudon culture. Cheap, fast, and delicious comfort food.
How Do I Make Restaurant Reservations in Japan?
A local explains booking restaurants. Apps, phone calls, and getting help.
What Can I Find at a Japanese Supermarket?
A local's guide to Japanese supermarkets. What to buy and how they work.
What Is Japanese Curry? A Guide to Curry Rice
A local explains Japanese curry culture. Different from Indian curry and where to try it.
What's the Difference Between Udon and Soba?
A local explains Japanese noodles. When to eat which and how to enjoy them.
Is Coffee Good in Japan? Guide to Japanese Coffee Culture
A local explains Japan's unique coffee scene. From kissaten to third wave cafes.
Where to Find the Best Matcha Desserts in Tokyo?
A local's guide to matcha cafes. From traditional to Instagram-worthy spots.
What Is Depachika? Department Store Food Basements
A local's guide to Japan's amazing food halls. What to buy and how to explore.
What Are the Rules for Eating Sushi in Japan?
A local explains sushi etiquette. Hands vs chopsticks, soy sauce tips, and more.
How to Order at a Japanese Izakaya
A local explains izakaya culture. What to order, how to order, and drinking tips.
Is It Hard to Be Vegetarian in Japan?
A local's honest guide for vegetarians. Challenges, solutions, and where to eat.
What Are the Different Types of Ramen in Japan?
A local explains ramen styles. From Tonkotsu to Shoyu, find your favorite.
Is Convenience Store Food in Japan Really Good?
A local explains why konbini food is amazing. What to try and tips for eating cheap.
Where to Try Kaiseki in Tokyo?
A local's guide to kaiseki restaurants. From luxury to affordable options.
How to Order Street Food in Japan Without Speaking Japanese
A local's guide to ordering at food stalls. Easy tips for non-Japanese speakers.
Is Takoyaki Better in Osaka or Tokyo?
A local compares takoyaki in both cities. The differences and where to try it.
Where to Find Unique Breakfast in Japan
A local's guide to breakfast spots. From traditional to trendy, budget to special.
Are Japanese Sweets (Wagashi) Actually Good?
A local's honest take on wagashi. The secret to enjoying them and where to try the best ones.
Safe and Delicious Fugu Restaurants in Tokyo
A local's guide to eating pufferfish safely. Famous restaurants and why you shouldn't worry.
Is It Hard to Find Good Espresso Coffee in Japan?
A local's guide to coffee culture in Japan. Kissaten vs modern cafes and where to find good espresso.
Can I Take Leftovers Home from a Restaurant in Japan?
A local's honest answer about doggy bags in Japan. Why most restaurants don't allow it and what to do instead.
Japanese Izakaya Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Visit
Izakaya are Japan's beloved pubs where locals gather to eat, drink, and socialize. Here's your complete guide to enjoying an authentic izakaya experience!
Japanese Convenience Store Food: A Local's Guide to Konbini Cuisine
Japan's convenience stores (konbini) offer surprisingly delicious food. Here's what to try at 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart - from onigiri to fried chicken!
When Do You Pay for a Fruit Smoothie at 7-11?
A local's guide to ordering frozen fruit smoothies at Japanese convenience stores. Learn the payment process, best flavors, and insider tips!
Need Coffee Recommendations in Tokyo for Fresh, Quality Brews
A local's guide to Tokyo's best coffee shops. From traditional kissaten to trendy third-wave cafes, discover where to find the perfect cup.
I Am Looking for the Best Restaurants in Japan
A local's honest guide to finding great restaurants in Japan. From budget eats to high-end dining, with specific recommendations by cuisine type.
Seeking Dinner Suggestion for 12 People in Tokyo
A local's guide to booking group dinners in Tokyo. Restaurant recommendations, booking tips, and how to handle large party logistics.
Are Alcohol and Smoking Expected in Izakayas?
A local's honest guide to izakaya culture in Japan. What to expect with drinking, smoking, and whether non-drinkers can still enjoy the experience.
Looking for the Top Dinner Cruise in Tokyo, Japan
Here's what I've learned from living in Tokyo and actually trying a few dinner cruises! In Japan, we don't really have a big tradition of formal dinner...
Suggestions for low carb food options in Japan.
Discover low-carb dining in Japan with tips like ordering less rice at sushi spots, enjoying sashimi, grilled dishes, and fresh salad bowls.
Best Ramen restaurant in Tokyo Station, suggestions needed!
Discover the best ramen in Tokyo Station! Visit Ramen Street for unique styles like shoyu and tsukemen at SORANOIRO and ROKURINSHA.
Does Ichiran offer children's portions for my picky eaters?
Ichiran offers a kid-friendly ramen experience with half-sized portions for picky eaters, free meals for kids, and customizable flavors.
How was ordering street food for non-Japanese speakers?
Discover tips for ordering street food in Japan as a non-Japanese speaker. Learn simple phrases, smart apps, and cultural insights to enjoy local delights stress-free!
Where Can I Find Kaiseki or Multi-Course Meals in Japan?
Discover the art of kaiseki dining in Japan! Explore casual spots like Zojirushi Shokudo and the high-end experience at RyuGin. Enjoy multiple mini dishes that reflect seasonal flavors and meticulous presentation!
Where can I find squid ink and unique flavored ice cream in Shinjuku?
Discover unique squid ink ice cream and adventurous flavors like black sesame in Shinjuku. Explore this culinary gem for a memorable treat!
What is the difference between takoyaki in Osaka and Tokyo?
Discover the unique differences between Osaka and Tokyo's takoyaki! From crispy snacks in Tokyo to the rich, authentic experience in Osaka, taste the culture!
Do we tips waitress/waiter in Japan?
Discover whether to tip waitstaff in Japan. Learn about Japanese service culture and the proper ways to show appreciation without gratuities.
Which ramen shop at Tokyo Station's Ramen Street is the best?
Discover the best ramen shops at Tokyo Station's Ramen Street, from shoyu to tsukemen. Explore unique flavors that delight all palates!
Unique breakfast in Japan?
Discover unique breakfast options in Japan! From traditional miso sets to fluffy pancakes, explore the country's tasty morning delights.
Will there be long wait times for food at Disneyland counters?
Is Okinawa worth visiting in September despite typhoon season? Learn tips on planning, weather, activities, and staying safe during your trip.
What's your favorite thing to eat/drink from 7/11?
A local answers: What's your favorite thing to eat/drink from 7/11?
How hard is it to find good espresso coffee in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe?
Looking for great espresso in Japan? Discover the best coffee spots in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, insights into Japan’s unique café culture.
Are alcohol and smoking expected in izakayas?
Izakayas are casual Japanese pubs where drinking alcohol and smoking are common, offering a lively social atmosphere with shared food and drinks.
Is booking recommended for Kura kaiten zushi at Tokyo Skytree?
Discover what you can’t bring into Tokyo Disneyland: no cans, glass, alcohol, large luggage, or drones. Light snacks, strollers, and refillable bottles allowed. Stay informed!
Looking for a rooftop bar with good cocktails and drinks.
Looking for the best rooftop bars in Tokyo? Enjoy stunning city views & great cocktails at The Gate Hotel Asakusa, Bvlgari Bar, The Roof Shibuya Sky & more!
Can we request a spoon and fork instead of chopsticks at restaurants?
A local answers: Can we request a spoon and fork instead of chopsticks at restaurants?
Is expensive sushi dinner worth it compared to normal sushi place?
Wondering if high-end sushi is worth the price? Try luxury sushi, casual conveyor sushi, and mid-range gourmet spots like Nemuro Hanamaru 🍣
Recommend a place in Tokyo for delicious tempura, ramen, and yakiniku.
A local answers: Recommend a place in Tokyo for delicious tempura, ramen, and yakiniku.
Please share you can't miss Tokyo restaurant recommendations! Thanks!
Discover Tokyo's culinary gems: savor premium yakiniku at Bakuro Ichidai Ginza, fresh grilled fish at Tsukiji Yaki Uo Ishikawa, and more!
Need coffee recommendations in Tokyo for fresh, quality brews.
Discover Tokyo’s best local coffee spots! From cozy hidden gems to upscale cafes, enjoy authentic, fresh, high-quality brews loved by locals.
Recommend a good and reasonable place for shabu shabu or sukiyaki in Ueno & Asakusa?
Looking for affordable shabu-shabu or sukiyaki in Ueno or Asakusa? Try Hachinoki or Yansando—high quality, delicious, and under ¥2,000 at lunch!
Need vegan restaurant recommendations in Tokyo, Minato, Kyoto, and Shin Osaka.
Learn how to easily get from Narita or Haneda Airport to Omiya Station without speaking Japanese. Tips on trains, buses, IC cards & apps.
Restaurants in Yanaka Giza open on Sundays?
Wondering if Yanaka Ginza restaurants are open on Sundays? Learn about typical opening hours and enjoy this charming neighborhood.
We just arrived Kyoto, stay near Kyoto tower. Any good shopping and food around here?
Discover Kyoto's culinary gems near Kyoto Tower! Savor matcha parfaits, delicious ramen, and yakiniku, then shop local treasures nearby.
Can You Request a Spoon and Fork Instead of Chopsticks in Japan?
Most restaurants in Japan provide forks and spoons if you ask. Sushi can be eaten by hand, and convenience stores sell disposable cutlery. Just ask politely, and you’ll be fine!
Where can we get some fantastic udon noodles in Shibuya,Tokyo?
Wondering where to get great udon in Shibuya? This guide compares popular spots—TsuruTonTan for atmosphere, Tokyo Mentsu-dan for authenticity, and quick options like Tenya and Miyatake Sanuki Udon. Plus, learn some fun Japanese udon trivia and explore regional styles!
Recommend a good and reasonable place for shabu shabu or sukiyaki in Ueno & Asakusa?
Looking for affordable shabu-shabu or sukiyaki in Ueno or Asakusa? Try Hachinoki or Yansando—high quality, delicious, and under ¥2,000 at lunch!
Best Japanese cakes or pastries to try?
Discover Tokyo’s best cakes! From classic shortcakes at Fujiya to luxury pastries at crèam fraise génoise, here’s your full dessert guide.
Looking for a rooftop bar with good cocktails and drinks🍹
Looking for the best rooftop bars in Tokyo? Enjoy stunning city views & great cocktails at The Gate Hotel Asakusa, Bvlgari Bar, The Roof Shibuya Sky & more!
Is expensive sushi dinner worth it compared to normal sushi place?
Wondering if high-end sushi is worth the price? Try luxury sushi, casual conveyor sushi, and mid-range gourmet spots like Nemuro Hanamaru 🍣
Can You Recommend a Safe and Top-Rated Fugu Restaurant in Tokyo?
Looking for the best fugu in Tokyo? Discover safe, top-rated pufferfish restaurants in Ginza, including Fukuji, Soukawa, Naruto, and Genpin Fugu!
Recommend a place in Tokyo for delicious tempura, ramen, and yakiniku.
Discover the best tempura, ramen, and yakiniku in Tokyo! From budget-friendly spots to premium dining, find the perfect place for your taste and budget.
How hard is it to find good espresso coffee in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe?
Finding good espresso in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe is easy, but quality varies by city. Explore top coffee shops and learn about Japan’s unique café culture.
Where to find the best Japanese cheesecake in Tokyo?
Looking for the best Japanese cheesecake in Tokyo? Try Mr. Cheesecake at pop-up events, LeTAO’s Double Fromage, or a classic Japanese strawberry shortcake. These desserts are light, creamy, and a must-try in Tokyo!
After eating at the restaurant, is it accptable to take with you what you did not eat ?
Taking home leftovers from a restaurant in Japan is uncommon due to hygiene and food safety concerns. Most places do not allow it, and if they do, you must ask for permission. Takeout containers may not be provided, bringing your own is an option.
Is expensive sushi dinner worth it compared to normal sushi place?
Experiencing both high-end and budget sushi in Japan is a must for sushi lovers. Luxury sushi offers premium ingredients like uni and otoro, while conveyor belt chains like Sushiro provide fun and affordability. Trying both is the best way to enjoy the full spectrum of sushi culture.
Which ramen shop at Tokyo Station's Ramen Street is the best?
A local's guide to the best ramen at Tokyo Station's famous Ramen Street.