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Header image courtesy of Aronia de Takazawa (via Facebook)
Sushi is available around the world, but you can expect nothing less than the best when it is served in its birthplace. In Tokyo, there is no shortage of sashimi and hand rolls, and sushi lovers come together to dine in seafood heaven. There's so much more than exquisite sushi available in Japan—an impressive roster of renowned restaurants serving international cuisines also calls Tokyo home. In fact, Tokyo has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world! It’s challenging to make a list of all the best restaurants in Tokyo, so we’ve made it a bit easier. Here are some of the best luxury restaurants in Tokyo to try, and to dine your way through top-of-the-range gourmet food.
There are only four tables available at Aronia de Takazawa—it’s not easy to get a table at this highly popular restaurant. Decked in simple interiors inspired by Japanese tea ceremonies, the restaurant is helmed by Chef Takazawa and his wife Akiko, who serves delightful, fine French cuisine. Known for the signature, innovative dishes like vegetables served in a flowerpot bowl, the menu boasts a refreshing blend of flavours presented in artistically—a skill the French excel at.
Aronia de Takazawa, 3 Chome-5-2 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan | (+81) 3 3505 5052
Taking Korean barbecue to the next level, Han no Daidokoro blends the best ingredients and techniques from Japanese and Korean cuisine. Perched within the vibrant neighbourhood of Shibuya, the eatery is frequently sought after by gourmands seeking a lavish, unique experience. Some popular favourites include the Japanese wagyu, and the delectable Kobe beef—the choice is yours.
Han no Daidokoro, 2 Chome-29-8 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan | (+81) 3 5489 7655
With three Michelin stars under its belt, Ishikawa is set within an intimate space, where the staff are attentive and the food is exquisite. Hidden away in a secluded alleyway, guests who make the trip know that it’s well worth it for the food and five-star service. Helmed by Chef Hideki Ishikawa, diners can watch the cooking process at the cypress-wood counter. The fixed menu features different courses, which include an appetiser, soup, mains, and sashimi.
Ishikawa, Japan, 〒162-0825 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kagurazaka, 5−37 高村ビル | (+81) 3 5225 0173
In French, L’Effervescence means bubbles, or where people gather, depending on the context. The dishes at this fine-dining French restaurant takes a playful approach to dining, with refreshing takes on McDonald’s apple pie, replaced with wild boar or sage and matutake mushrooms, served in a red takeaway box. Everything is served in an elegant Japanese style, with a selection of French wines that pair perfectly with the dishes at hand.
L’Effervescence, 2 Chome-26-4 Nishiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0031, Japan | (+81) 3 5766 9500
At Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Tapas Molecular Bar offers a gourmet tapas menu, paired with a sophisticated ambience and five-star service. Serving culinary masterpieces inspired by the traditional Spanish dishes, the restaurant only accommodates up to eight people at a time, similar to the Japanese sushi bars. Watch the dishes made in front of your eyes, for an experience like no other. There’s a science laboratory feeling to the culinary offerings, served in test tubes and beakers. Don’t forget to peer at the spectacular views, too—you won't be able to take your eyes off of Tokyo’s uninterrupted skyline.
Tapas Molecular Bar, Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, 2-1-1, Nihonbashimuromachi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-8328, Japan | (+81) 3 3270 8188
Taking Tokyo’s fine dining scene to new heights, Towers is a contemporary grill restaurant, offering the best ingredients and meats that Japan has to offer, which are then grilled to perfection by the expert culinary masters. Located in The Ritz Carlton Tokyo, locals and tourists flock here to try the special selections of wine and cocktails, paired with the main dishes, like the local seafood or the Akaushi prime rib. Bon appetit!
Towers, 東京ミッドタウン ９丁目-７-1, Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-6245, Japan | (+81) 3 6434 8711
Experience kaiseki dining in the intimate Ginza Kojyu, which will make you feel at home thanks to its cosy interiors and excellent service. The Japanese restaurant features a seasonal traditional menu with experimental fare. Be sure to book in advance, as the eatery gets popular and is often booked out.
Ginza Kojyu, Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 5 Chome−4−8 銀座カリオカビル 4F | (+81) 3 6215 9544
Faye Bradley is a freelance writer based in Hong Kong, covering topics in travel, wellness, F&B, and the arts. As the editor and business development executive for Cha Siu Papers Times and Compare Retreats, Faye has experience in writing predominantly about luxury travel and well-being. With a keen eye for finding hidden gems, exploring new destinations, and tasting best-of-the-best cuisines, she continues to pursue her love for writing about travel and visiting remote lands. You can find her by the pool with a good book and a mojito in hand.
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