2026 Tokyo Food Guide: A Must-Try List Refined from Three Journeys! Affordable Divine Sushi and Rich Chicken Broth Ramen

Having visited Tokyo numerous times, the most unforgettable experiences are undoubtedly the delectable foods! This time, I have compiled a personal list that continues to captivate me in 2026, refined from three trips. From incredibly affordable divine sushi to the rich and irresistible Michelin-level chicken broth ramen, be sure to tuck this away and join us on a delightful culinary journey through Tokyo!

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, sushi is undoubtedly the first thing that comes to mind for many! Tokyo offers an overwhelming array of sushi options, ranging from high-end omakase experiences that can cost thousands of yen to budget-friendly conveyor belt sushi. For travelers looking to save money without compromising on flavor, choosing a popular chain restaurant that locals also love to queue for can often lead to delightful surprises.

This sushi restaurant, which I personally rate as "the undisputed champion of affordable dining," is called Kaiten Sushi Toriton. They have several locations across Japan, but my favorite is the branch located at Tokyo Skytree. I stumbled upon it while casually searching on the renowned Japanese food review site Tabelog. This spot isn’t overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of Western tourists, yet it always has long lines, with peak times sometimes requiring a wait of up to three hours! While that may sound daunting, the restaurant delivers fresh seafood directly from Hokkaido every day, and the sweetness of the ingredients is truly evident. Each bite makes the wait worthwhile.

The ordering system here is quite unique, resembling a "semi-conveyor sushi" concept. While various promotional dishes continuously circulate on the track, most customers actually prefer to order directly from the menu by speaking to the chefs. Occasionally, you’ll see staff members enthusiastically distributing limited-time freshly made specialties throughout the restaurant, creating an atmosphere that is incredibly joyful and vibrant! When you visit, I highly recommend ordering their "Tuna Sushi Trio," which allows you to savor a combination of lean tuna, toro (fatty tuna), and tuna tartare with scallions. The fish is cut into thick slices, nearly covering the vinegared rice completely, and the sensation of the fat melting in your mouth is truly blissful!~

The pricing, which everyone is most concerned about, is quite friendly! Here, sushi is typically served in plates of two pieces, with prices ranging from 150 yen to 600 yen (approximately HKD 8 to 30 / TWD 30 to 120). Even the premium cuts of bluefin tuna are reasonably priced, so you can enjoy several plates without feeling guilty about your wallet. It's recommended to arrive three hours early to take a number; by scanning the QR code on the small white slip, you can check your status at any time. While waiting, you can take the opportunity to shop at the Solamachi mall located beneath the Tokyo Skytree, or explore the surrounding plaza to see if there are any weekend markets to browse. Time will fly by in no time!

The area around the Skytree is an excellent location for photography! While waiting for a table at a restaurant, it is highly recommended to wear earth-toned or low-saturation blue casual outfits inspired by Japanese fashion. Stand in the outdoor plaza outside the mall and use a low angle to capture the towering Skytree against the blue sky. If you want to shoot a short video, try using the reflections in the mall's glass as a transition point, then switch to a close-up of the chef's hands skillfully crafting sushi after being seated. This approach not only showcases the grandeur of the space but also conveys the exquisite and inviting warmth of the food, creating a visually striking yet approachable piece of work.

Japanese ramen comes in countless varieties, with the rich tonkotsu broth typically dominating the market. However, for those who do not eat pork or are simply looking to switch things up, chicken white soup is certainly another slice of heaven! The elegant district of Ginza, known for its sophisticated atmosphere, is not only home to luxury brands and century-old establishments but also hides many top-notch noodle spots in its alleyways that attract food enthusiasts.

When it comes to chicken white broth ramen in Tokyo, one cannot overlook the renowned "Ginza Kagari." This restaurant boasts a high level of exclusivity, resembling an upscale Japanese dining establishment from the outside. The wooden decor exudes a tranquil and elegant ambiance. Their pride lies in the rich broth, meticulously crafted by simmering chicken bones to perfection, resulting in a beautiful creamy yellow soup that has a texture so rich it feels like savoring a bowl of French bisque! Additionally, they use sous-vide chicken breast slices as toppings, ensuring the meat is tender and juicy without any dryness. For those who find traditional char siu too greasy, this is undoubtedly a refreshing alternative.

In addition to the stunning broth and tender meat slices, the ingredients in this bowl of ramen have been meticulously crafted. Unlike typical ramen that includes bamboo shoots or seaweed, this dish features a variety of seasonal, sweet vegetables such as pumpkin, sweet potato chips, and asparagus. The vibrant colors not only make the bowl look like a work of art, but they also cleverly balance the richness of the broth. Remember, halfway through your meal, to sprinkle a bit of their special black pepper or black truffle oil as recommended by the restaurant. In that moment, the aroma will explode in your mouth, elevating the original flavors to a whole new level, making it impossible to resist sipping every last drop of the broth!

When photographing this bowl of ramen, which resembles a work of art, it's advisable to position your camera or smartphone lens close to the edge of the bowl. Utilize a wide aperture to capture the visual extension of the steam rising from the surface of the broth. Since the lighting in the restaurant leans towards a soft, warm yellow hue, wearing a cream-colored or glossy silk top will not only cleverly reflect light to brighten your face but will also blend perfectly into the subtly luxurious yet understated atmosphere of Ginza. Additionally, it's important to note that the restaurant's space is relatively small and tranquil. To avoid disturbing other diners, remember to lower the shutter sound and refrain from using large tripods or additional lighting. Simply record the moment in the most natural and relaxed manner possible.

The charm of Tokyo lies in the fact that each subway station opens up to a different world. Stepping away from the bustling city center and traveling along the Chuo Line to Koenji, you will find no towering skyscrapers, but rather streets lined with antique shops, second-hand vintage stores, and independent music venues. The pace here is relaxed and casual, giving rise to the unique soul food that defines this neighborhood.

The ramen shop named 69men was truly a beautiful accident. I still remember that time I visited Tokyo during the New Year's period when many well-known restaurants had their doors closed with "休息" signs. Hungry and wandering around the vintage streets of Koenji, I was almost ready to give up my search for hot food when I turned a corner and spotted this little shop still steaming with warmth. After checking some online reviews, I discovered that in addition to their chicken white broth, the soy sauce ramen was particularly praised by locals. With a spirit of curiosity, I decided to give it a try, and to my surprise, I ended up enjoying one of the most unforgettable bowls of noodles of my journey.

Typically, I rarely order soy sauce ramen, as I find that many restaurants tend to make their soy sauce broth overly salty, lacking in depth. However, 69men's soy sauce ramen completely shattered my preconceived notions! Their broth is crystal clear, and with the first sip, you are greeted by the sweet clarity of chicken bones, followed closely by the rich aroma of high-quality fermented soy sauce, leaving no feeling of thirst. Paired with slightly chewy, thin noodles that are coated with the flavorful broth, each bite becomes more delightful. This bowl of ramen reflects the essence of Koenji; at first glance, it appears simple and unassuming, but upon closer tasting, it reveals an endlessly captivating depth.

Koenji exudes a rich Showa-era nostalgia, making it a paradise for image creators after enjoying some food and drinks while strolling through the streets. It's highly recommended to bring along a film camera or to use a vintage filter with a grainy texture for your photographs. The moment you lift the noren curtain at a shop entrance, it becomes an excellent opening shot for your Reels. In terms of fashion, I strongly suggest donning an oversized baseball jacket or a retro floral shirt that you just found at a nearby thrift store. Casually posing under a weathered shop sign will effortlessly capture the essence of a street style masterpiece reminiscent of a lead character from a Japanese drama!

When traveling abroad, the last thing you want is to have your mood spoiled by a disappointing experience. The three Tokyo dining spots mentioned above have stood the test of time, having been visited multiple times. Whether you're in the mood for budget-friendly conveyor belt sushi or top-notch ramen, these places will surely satisfy your taste buds. The next time you plan a trip to Tokyo, consider adding these hidden gems to your itinerary. Experience for yourself the deliciousness that even locals rave about. Wishing you a delightful journey filled with great food and beautiful photos!

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