Tokyo, a city renowned for its vibrant food scene, offers a culinary adventure like no other. Whether you’re seeking street food or fine dining, the city provides a vast array of options for every palate and budget. This guide will help you navigate Tokyo’s diverse food offerings and recommend where to find the most authentic experiences. From casual street snacks to high-end cuisine, Tokyo is a food lover’s dream.

What to Eat and Where in Tokyo

Tokyo’s food scene can be overwhelming with the multitude of choices available. The key to enjoying a great meal lies in knowing where to go and what to order. To help you make the most of your dining experience, I’ve compiled a list of must-try dishes along with some fantastic restaurants to visit. These spots are known for their authentic, high-quality food and reasonable prices, offering a true taste of Tokyo.

While language barriers can sometimes be a challenge in Tokyo, the food often speaks for itself, so don’t be discouraged by places without English menus. Many spots, despite their humble appearances, serve exceptional food that locals swear by.

Must-Try Dishes in Tokyo

1. Takoyaki
A beloved street food, Takoyaki consists of dough balls filled with tender pieces of octopus, cooked on a special griddle. These tasty snacks are often topped with a variety of sauces, from soy sauce to mayonnaise, creating a savory bite that’s a must-try in Tokyo.
Where to Eat Takoyaki:

• Gindako (multiple locations)
• Fukuyoshi, Ginza
• Takoazabu, Omotesando

2. Yakitori
Yakitori are skewers of grilled chicken and vegetables, often enjoyed with a cold beer. Common types include chicken heart, chicken skin, and chicken meatballs, as well as vegetables like shishito peppers and onions. Whether enjoyed as a main meal or a snack, yakitori is a favorite in Tokyo.
Where to Eat Yakitori:

• Look for small yakitori shops throughout the city, particularly those with a local crowd.

3. Okonomiyaki
This savory pancake/omelet hybrid is made with a variety of ingredients like cabbage, pork belly, and shallots, then cooked on a hot plate and topped with a tangy sauce. There are regional variations, including the Tokyo-style Monjayaki, which is more brothy.
Where to Eat Okonomiyaki:

• Sometaro Okonomiyaki, Asakusa

4. Ramen
Ramen is a Japanese staple, consisting of long noodles served in a rich, simmered broth. Tokyo offers a variety of ramen styles, from the soy-based Shoyu to the creamy Tonkotsu. Ramen shops are scattered across the city, each offering their unique twist on this classic dish.
Where to Eat Ramen:

• Ramen Jiro (multiple locations)
• Ichiran (multiple locations)
• Mutekiya, Ikebukuro

5. Udon
Udon noodles are thicker than ramen and have a chewy texture. They can be served hot in a broth, cold with dipping sauce, or even grilled. Udon provides a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for noodle lovers.
Where to Eat Udon:

• Shibuya Station area
• Jiyugaoka Station area

6. Miso Soup
Miso soup is a Japanese classic, made with a dashi broth and miso paste. It’s light yet full of umami flavor and is often enjoyed at any meal time.
Where to Eat Miso Soup:

• Katsukura, Shibuya
• Tonkatsu Tonki, Meguro

7. Soba
Soba noodles, made from buckwheat flour, are often served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot soup. They are a light and healthy option that pairs wonderfully with tempura.
Where to Eat Soba:

• Narutomi Soba, Ginza
• Kanda Matsuya, Asakusa

8. Sushi and Sashimi
No trip to Tokyo is complete without sushi and sashimi. The city is known for its high-quality seafood, prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Whether you’re looking for an affordable conveyor belt sushi restaurant or a high-end sushi experience, Tokyo has it all.
Where to Eat Sushi and Sashimi:

• Tokyo Fish Market
• Genki Sushi (multiple locations)

9. Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, served with shredded cabbage, rice, and tonkatsu sauce. Despite being fried, it’s surprisingly light and flavorful.
Where to Eat Tonkatsu:

• Tonkatsu Aoki, Hamamatsucho

10. Unagi
Grilled freshwater eel, coated in a sweet soy-based sauce, is a Tokyo delicacy. Whether served over rice (unadon) or as sushi, unagi offers a rich, smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.
Where to Eat Unagi:

• Tokyo Fish Market

Sweet Treats and Snacks

1. Crepes
Japanese crepes are a popular snack, especially in the Harajuku area. These thin, crispy treats are filled with an array of delicious options, from whipped cream and fresh fruit to savory fillings.
Where to Eat Crepes:

• Harajuku

2. Mochi
Mochi is a sticky rice paste dessert that’s chewy and can be filled with various fillings, such as sweet red bean paste or matcha. Freshly made mochi is a delightful experience.
Where to Eat Mochi:

• Gekkou, Ikebukuro

3. Dango
These chewy rice flour balls are often skewered and served with a sweet soy sauce. Dango is a popular street snack and perfect for a quick treat while exploring Tokyo.
Where to Eat Dango:

• Various markets and street stalls

4. Taiyaki
Taiyaki are fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet fillings like red bean paste or custard. Their playful shape and sweet flavors make them a fun snack to try.
Where to Eat Taiyaki:

• Street food stalls

5. Melonpan
This sweet bread has a crunchy, sugary crust and a soft, fluffy interior. Often found with whipped cream or ice cream, melonpan is a must-try snack.
Where to Eat Melonpan:

• Asakusa

Fine Dining Experience: Kaiseki

Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal that showcases the artistry of Japanese cuisine. It involves a series of small, delicate dishes that focus on seasonal ingredients and perfect presentation. While Kaiseki originates in Kyoto, it’s also available in select Tokyo restaurants, offering an exceptional culinary experience.
Where to Eat Kaiseki:

• Akasaka Eigetsu, Akasaka
• Aoyama Gato, Harajuku

Finding Local Dining Gems in Tokyo

To discover the best local restaurants in Tokyo, look for spots with long queues—these places are often packed with locals and offer some of the best meals in town. Also, using tools like Google Maps and asking locals for recommendations will help you uncover hidden food treasures.

Tokyo’s food scene is incredibly diverse, and with a little guidance, you can explore the city like a true local, savoring each authentic dish along the way.

Northern Ireland’s food scene is often a source of fascination for visitors, especially those unaccustomed to its hearty, comfort-driven dishes. During my regular stays in Bangor, I’ve had the chance to introduce my partner Fanfan to the culinary delights that define the region. While she is not always thrilled with the concept of “greasy” food, she’s had her fair share of eye-opening moments with the unique flavors of Northern Irish cuisine. While many associate the area with rich, indulgent food, it’s these very dishes that form the heart of Northern Ireland’s gastronomic identity. Below, I’m sharing a guide to some of the most iconic meals you can find in Northern Ireland.

The Greasy Spoons: A Staple of Northern Irish Breakfasts

In Northern Ireland, greasy spoons are the local diners, serving up hearty breakfasts that have become an essential part of the culture. Different from a coffee shop, these cafés focus on filling meals, with tea or coffee as the main beverage options. Many of them offer an all-day breakfast, so you can enjoy a traditional meal any time of the day. Expect to find plenty of fried food, including eggs, bacon, sausages, and more.

The Ulster Fry: The Ultimate Northern Irish Breakfast

No breakfast in Northern Ireland is complete without the legendary Ulster Fry. This dish is similar to a Full English or Full Scottish breakfast but includes some local twists. The Ulster Fry typically features sausages, rashers (bacon), and a fried egg, accompanied by regional favorites such as soda bread and potato bread. While variations exist, you’ll also find optional additions like mushrooms, tomatoes, and baked beans—though some purists might argue that these aren’t essential.

Black and White Pudding: A Unique Delicacy

An essential part of the Ulster Fry is black pudding, a savory blood sausage made with pork fat, oatmeal, onions, and pigs’ blood. While it may sound off-putting to some, it’s a beloved Northern Irish staple. White pudding is also popular, a similar dish that lacks the blood, but still delivers on flavor.

Vegetable Roll: A Spicy, Unexpected Treat

Although it might sound healthy, the vegetable roll is not what it seems. Made with rehydrated leeks and spiced beef, this local dish is a bit of an anomaly. With only 4% vegetables, it’s far more of a savory sausage-like creation, often enjoyed alongside breakfast.

Breakfast Baps: A Breakfast on the Go

For those in a hurry, breakfast baps are a perfect solution. Essentially, these are Northern Ireland’s version of buns, and they are stuffed with everything you could want for breakfast, including elements from the Ulster Fry. Whether it’s bacon, sausages, or even a full fry-up, everything goes into a soft bap. These portable breakfasts are a hit for those on the move.

Local Breads: A Delicious Sidekick

While bread is usually a sidekick to the main dishes in Northern Ireland, it plays an important role in the region’s food culture. Two breads stand out: soda bread, which uses baking soda as a leavening agent, and potato bread, a flat bread made with mashed potatoes. Both are perfect for sopping up the rich flavors of the Ulster Fry. Another notable bread is Veda, a sweet, sticky malt loaf often enjoyed toasted with butter.

Chip Shop Takeaways: Deep-Fried Comfort

Chip shops are a cornerstone of local fast food culture, with menus offering everything from classic chips (fries) to more unusual creations. One of the most iconic dishes is the “Fish Supper” (fish and chips), often deep-fried and served with generous amounts of salt and vinegar. Other favorites include the “Cowboy Supper,” where chips are topped with sausages and baked beans—though this combination might not be for everyone!

Pastie Supper: A Deep-Fried Delight

The pastie supper is another beloved Northern Irish dish, made by deep-frying a spiced minced pork, onion, and potato pie. Unlike Cornish pasties, which are baked, the Northern Irish version is entirely deep-fried, adding a crispy texture that makes it truly unique. It’s so iconic that even local sculptures celebrate the pastie supper.

Pub Grub: Comfort Food with a Twist

Pubs in Northern Ireland serve up more than just drinks. Pub grub is a term used for the traditional meals offered at these local watering holes. From hearty stews to international dishes like lasagna, pub menus offer a variety of comfort food. One standout dish is Ulster Irish Stew, a lamb-based stew often served with potatoes and onions.

Surf and Turf: A Perfect Combination

For those who prefer both land and sea, surf-and-turf is the perfect compromise. In Northern Ireland, this often means battered prawns (scampi) from local fishing towns like Portavogie, paired with a steak or beef from nearby farms. This combination of seafood and beef is a popular option at pubs and restaurants across the region.

Steak and Guinness Pie: A Pub Favorite

A true British and Irish classic, the Steak and Guinness Pie is a must-try. Tender chunks of beef are slow-cooked in a rich Guinness sauce and topped with a flaky pastry shell. It’s comfort food at its finest, though you may also find versions where the Guinness is served separately, allowing you to enjoy the pie with a glass of the famous stout.

Potato Champ: A Hearty Side Dish

In Northern Ireland, potatoes are a staple, and the champ is a particularly beloved dish. This mashed potato concoction is made with butter, milk, and scallions, often served as a side dish to accompany other meals. While simple, it’s a delicious and comforting choice.

The Carvery: A Traditional Sunday Meal

The carvery is a classic Northern Irish meal, often served in pubs or restaurants as a Sunday dinner. This buffet-style service allows you to choose from a variety of meats, vegetables, and potatoes, all served with generous portions of gravy. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for feeding a crowd.

Sweets and Snacks: Sweet Treats of Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland isn’t just about hearty savory meals; it also has its fair share of sweet treats. Traybakes are one of the most popular snacks, offering a variety of cake-like desserts that are baked in large trays and served in individual portions. One standout sweet is the Jammy Joey, a moist Madeira sponge cake covered in jam and coconut.

Yellowman: A Sweet, Crunchy Treat

Yellowman is a local honeycomb treat, similar to what you might find inside a Crunchie bar. It’s a crunchy, sweet delight that melts in your mouth. In addition to being a tasty snack, it’s also used in a local cocktail that pairs it with ginger ale and Bushmills whiskey—a perfect way to enjoy this treat.

Tayto Crisps: A Local Favorite

No trip to Northern Ireland is complete without sampling Tayto crisps. Known for their iconic flavors, including Cheese and Onion, Tayto crisps are a favorite snack for locals. Whether you’re grabbing a bag at the airport or from a vending machine, these crisps are a must-try snack.

Bushmills Whiskey: A Local Distillery Favorite

For lovers of whiskey, Bushmills is the go-to distillery in Northern Ireland. Known for its smooth, triple-distilled whiskey, Bushmills offers tours where you can sample their products and learn about the distilling process. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy a glass of the region’s finest whiskey.

Local Beers and Buckfast Wine

Northern Ireland also has a growing craft beer scene, with local brews like Belfast Ale and Belfast Lager gaining popularity. If you’re looking for something a little different, you might want to try Buckfast Wine, a tonic wine that’s gained a cult following in the region.

Conclusion

From hearty breakfasts to indulgent chip shop meals, Northern Irish food is all about comfort, simplicity, and flavor. While it may not always be the healthiest option, it’s certainly one of the most satisfying. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to explore these essential dishes for a true taste of Northern Ireland.

Malaysia is a food paradise, where you can taste the perfect blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. With a rich history of diverse cultures, the local food scene reflects this unique mix. If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant country, make sure to explore these essential dishes and experiences that define Malaysian cuisine.

Nasi Campur

A classic dish you’ll find at food courts across Malaysia, Nasi Campur (which means “mixed rice”) is a must-try. It consists of a plate of rice with a variety of pre-cooked dishes and sides you can pick from a buffet-style setup. Each region offers its own twist on Nasi Campur, with Nasi Kandar (Indian-inspired) popular in the north and Nasi Padang (Malay and Indonesian-inspired) favored in the south. This is an easy and inexpensive way to get a taste of the country’s culinary variety.

Fish Head Curry

Fish Head Curry is a bold and spicy dish that has earned its place as one of Malaysia’s iconic offerings. While it’s believed to have originated in Singapore, this dish is a staple in Malaysia as well, especially at Nasi Kandar restaurants. Made with red snapper’s head, vegetables, and a rich South Indian-style curry, it’s a flavorful, fiery treat. This dish is the result of an Indian chef’s attempt to cater to Chinese tastes, making it a unique fusion of cultures.

Beef Rendang

Though originally from Indonesia, Beef Rendang is a beloved dish in Malaysia. The beef is slow-cooked in coconut milk and a spice paste made of ginger, turmeric, and chilies. The long cooking process ensures the beef becomes tender and the sauce thickens into a rich, caramelized perfection. Rendang is a staple at Nasi Campur buffets, and it’s the kind of dish that shows the depth of Malaysian culinary techniques.

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is often regarded as Malaysia’s national dish. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that consists of coconut milk-infused rice, crispy fried anchovies, peanuts, and a spicy sambal sauce. This dish is traditionally eaten for breakfast but can be found all day long. Served wrapped in banana leaves, it’s especially delicious when paired with fried or grilled chicken, making it a satisfying meal any time.

Char Kway Teow

Char Kway Teow, often compared to Thailand’s Pad Thai, is a stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, eggs, prawns, and bean sprouts. Stir-fried in soy sauce, this dish is simple but packed with flavor. It’s a common dish across Malaysia and can be found in street food stalls and restaurants. The ingredients may vary regionally, with some places adding cockles or fish cakes to the mix.

Mee Goreng

Mee Goreng is a fried noodle dish often served in food courts and hawker stalls throughout Malaysia. While similar to Char Kway Teow, it uses egg noodles instead of flat rice noodles. Mee Goreng can be made with various proteins, including chicken, beef, or prawns, and is typically stir-fried with vegetables and chili paste. It’s a quick, filling meal, but not as exciting as other dishes on this list.

Curry Mee

Curry Mee is a spicy noodle soup made with egg noodles and a coconut-based curry broth. This dish includes fried tofu and beansprouts, with the option of adding congealed blood cubes for extra texture. It’s similar to the Thai dish Khao Soi but with a more Indian-inspired flavor profile. Curry Mee is widely available and is a favorite among curry lovers.

Chicken Satay

Satay is a beloved barbecue dish in Malaysia, featuring marinated pieces of chicken skewered and grilled over open flames. It’s served with a peanut sauce that can vary in spiciness depending on the region. The best versions of Satay often come from Indonesia, but Malaysia puts its own spin on the dish, especially with chicken wings as an increasingly popular variation.

Loh Mee

Loh Mee is a Penang specialty made with thick egg noodles in a gooey, egg-based broth. This dish is complemented by crispy pork pieces, fried pork skin, and crunchy beansprouts, and often topped with a boiled egg. Loh Mee is a great choice if you’re in Penang, as it’s one of the area’s most beloved noodle dishes.

Hokkien Mee

Originating from the Chinese Hokkien province, Hokkien Mee is a stir-fried noodle dish that’s particularly popular in Kuala Lumpur. The noodles are stir-fried with pork lard, pork, prawns, and dark soy sauce, creating a rich and flavorful dish. It’s typically served with lime, chili, and sambal for extra kick.

Wonton Mee

Wonton Mee is a Chinese-inspired dish that consists of egg noodles served with dumplings filled with ground pork and shrimp. The noodles are often cooked in soy sauce and accompanied by Chinese broccoli. Wonton Mee is a favorite at many food stalls and can be served in soup or as a dry dish with soup on the side.

Butter Prawns

Butter Prawns is a modern Malaysian dish that blends Chinese, Malay, and Indian cooking techniques. The prawns are cooked in a rich sauce made with butter, egg, coconut milk, and curry leaves, resulting in a creamy, spicy dish. There are two variations: the wet version, with a saucy consistency, and the dry version, which is covered in crispy egg floss.

Claypot Chicken Rice

Claypot Chicken Rice is a comforting dish that’s cooked and served in a traditional clay pot. The rice is slow-cooked with stock and chicken, creating a crispy bottom layer and a smoky flavor. This simple yet delicious dish is a great choice for those looking for a warm, satisfying meal.

Biryani Rice

Biryani is a fragrant rice dish that’s popular in Malaysia’s Mamak restaurants. The rice is cooked with spices like cardamom and chili powder, and layered with yogurt for extra flavor. Often served with mutton curry or tandoori chicken, Biryani is a hearty meal that’s perfect for a special occasion.

Roti Canai

Roti Canai is a popular flatbread that originated in India but is now a staple in Malaysia. It’s a simple, pan-fried bread that’s served with curry sauce or various meat curries. Variations like Murtabak (stuffed Roti) and Kotthu (Roti mixed with meat and egg) add exciting twists to this humble dish.

Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori Chicken is a dish that’s made in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor. The chicken is marinated overnight in a mixture of spices and yogurt, then grilled in the tandoor to achieve a perfectly tender interior and crispy exterior. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Malaysia.

Samosas

Samosas are deep-fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes, meat, or vegetables. These tasty snacks are commonly found in Indian-influenced areas of Malaysia, especially in food courts or at curry puff stands. They make for a quick and satisfying snack, perfect for eating on the go.

Steamboat Hot Pots

Steamboat, or Hot Pot, is a communal dining experience that was introduced by Chinese traders in Malaysia. Guests cook their own meats, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering broth, choosing from a variety of flavorful options like Malay Soto, Thai Tom Yum, or spicy Sichuan. It’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy a meal with friends.

Lok Lok Hot Pot

Lok Lok is a street food variation of Hot Pot, where skewered meats and vegetables are dunked into a hot broth for a quick cook. It’s a fast, casual way to enjoy the flavors of Hot Pot and is often served with a variety of spicy dips and sauces.

Rojak

Rojak is a fruit and vegetable salad tossed in a sweet, sour, and spicy chili and tamarind dressing. The fruits used vary by season and region, but common ingredients include water apple, pineapple, and mango. A similar dish, Pasembur, is an Indian-inspired version with deep-fried vegetables and a sweet, spicy sauce.

Ais Kacang

Ais Kacang is Malaysia’s version of a shaved ice dessert. It’s a refreshing treat made with layers of shaved ice, fruits, beans, and syrups. It’s a popular choice for a cool, sweet finish to a meal and can be found at food courts and dessert stands throughout the country.

Durian

Durian is Malaysia’s famous “King of Fruits,” known for its strong smell and divisive taste. Some people love its creamy, sweet flesh, while others find it overpowering. Durian is typically available from June to October, and trying it is a quintessential Malaysian experience.

Extra Strong Beer

In Malaysia, alcohol is heavily taxed, but you can still find strong beers with high alcohol content. The local Carlsberg Special Brew is 8.8% ABV, but many beers, including Guinness, have higher alcohol content here compared to other countries. If you’re a fan of strong drinks, this is something to explore.

Fruit Juices and Teh Tarik

For those avoiding alcohol, Malaysia’s fresh fruit juices are an excellent alternative. Lychee juice and salted mango lassi are my personal favorites. Teh Tarik, a frothy tea made with black tea and condensed milk, is another daily staple in Malaysia. It’s often enjoyed at Mamak restaurants alongside meals.

Malaysian cuisine offers an incredible variety of dishes influenced by a diverse cultural landscape. Whether you’re savoring a rich beef rendang or cooling down with Ais Kacang, the food here is a reflection of the country’s vibrant and delicious heritage.

When it comes to sausages, I know my stuff. While I haven’t tried every single one in Chiang Mai, I can confidently say that the best Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage) in the city can be found at Mae Hia Fresh Market, also known as Talad Sod Mae Hai. It’s a subjective choice, of course, but based on local recommendations, the long queues, and the daily volume of sausages they grill up, this place is tough to beat.

Mae Hia Fresh Market

The stall at Mae Hia Market, or what could be better described as a mini kitchen, is called Gao Makham (which translates to “under the tamarind tree”). It’s a bit tricky for those who don’t read Thai, but if you’re looking for it, just head to the corner of the market near the road where you’ll spot long queues waiting for their turn. This is where they grill up the Sai Oua sausages so fresh and crumbly that they fall apart when poked with a stick.

Finding Gao Makham

Unlike hawker stalls in places like Singapore or Malaysia, Thai people aren’t typically fond of waiting in long lines unless they’re in air-conditioned comfort. However, to find Gao Makham, you need to look for the queues. There’s another similar stall called Sai Oua Samonprai (which means “herbal sausage”) across the market, and while it’s also a top contender for the best sausage, Gao Makham remains a favorite.

Herbal Goodness

Both stalls serve sausages that are packed with herbal flavors, and when I say herbal, I mean the best-known Thai flavors: lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chillies, and galangal. This combination gives the sausages a wonderful sour, spicy kick, similar to the flavors you’ll find in Isaan dishes like prik kaeng (a Thai spice mix). This balance of heat and fragrance makes the sausages truly stand out.

Lanna Favorites at Mae Hia Market

While the journey to Mae Hia Market might seem like a trek, it’s definitely worth it, especially if you’re a fan of Lanna cuisine. Beyond the sausages, this market is a treasure trove of Northern Thai favorites. When we’re traveling further afield, Mae Hia Market is our go-to spot for road trip snacks. We pick up staples like kap moo (crispy pork skin), nam prik noom (grilled green chili dip), and naem mok (steamed fermented pork), all served with sticky rice. There are also heartier dishes like kaeng hang leh (fruity pork curry), nam niao (tomato curry), and the famous Khao Soi (Burmese curry noodle soup).

Food on the Go

The great thing about Mae Hia Market is that most of the food is sold to-go, making it perfect for road trips. We often grab our snacks and eat in the car—though eating in the car comes with its own set of risks, like avoiding the 5,000 baht fine for eating in certain areas. But it’s worth it when you get to enjoy these delicious treats. On our last trip, we were accompanied by a Vietnamese friend who had been hesitant about Thai food until she tried Sai Oua. The flavor was so good, it broke down her food snobbery. By the end of the trip, she couldn’t get enough and even became a fan of Khao Soi. Who knows? She’s now thinking about moving to Chiang Mai!