🍽️ Must-Try Local Foods in Asakusa, Tokyo

Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, known for its historic atmosphere, traditional shopping streets, and of course, amazing local food. Whether you're walking along Nakamise Street or exploring the back alleys, you'll find plenty of delicious treats. Here’s a guide to must-try foods in Asakusa – from quick bites to full meals.

🍢 Savory Street Food

1. Grilled Eel Rice Ball from UnanaA delicious grilled rice ball topped with premium Japanese eel. Cooked over charcoal and seasoned with aromatic sansho pepper, this is a hearty snack with a rich flavor.

2. Asakusa Menchi (Minced Meat Cutlet)Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. This popular deep-fried snack is perfect for eating on the go and always draws a crowd.

3. Wagyu Curry Bread from ToyofukuFilled with rich, flavorful curry made from Japanese black beef and wrapped in crispy dough. A perfect mix of crunch and spice.

🍡 Sweet Street Food

1. Jumbo Melon Bread from KagetsudoFamous for its crisp outside and soft fluffy interior, this oversized melon pan is both filling and photo-worthy.

2. Strawberry Castella Skewers from KikusuidoSkewered cubes of fluffy castella sponge cake topped with juicy strawberries – a perfect balance of sweet and fresh.

3. Matcha Crêpes from JuseianFilled with rich matcha cream and sometimes mochi or red bean paste, these crêpes are a favorite among matcha lovers.

🍤 Classic Tempura Bowls (Tendon)

1. Daikokuya TempuraFounded in 1887, this long-standing shop is known for its legendary prawn tendon. The rich, dark soy-based sauce seeps into the rice, and the massive tempura prawns practically spill over the bowl.

2. MasaruA refined, reservation-only tempura restaurant that serves tendon with giant tiger prawns. More delicate in flavor, this is a premium take on the traditional dish, perfect for food connoisseurs.

🍽️ Traditional Restaurants

1. YoshikamiA beloved Western-style diner with the slogan “Sorry, it’s too delicious!” Their beef stew and omurice (omelette rice) are local favorites.

2. Komagata DozeuServing dojou (loach) hot pot since the Edo period. This is a taste of Tokyo’s culinary history in an old-style setting.

3. Asakusa ImahanA high-end sukiyaki and shabu-shabu restaurant. Enjoy premium wagyu beef in a beautifully presented, traditional meal.

From classic street snacks to sit-down meals in historic eateries, Asakusa offers a wide variety of flavors that reflect Japan’s rich food culture. Take a stroll, follow your nose, and don’t forget to come hungry!