1. Harutaka
Cuisine: Edomae Sushi
Stepping into Harutaka, I am immediately met with a serene atmosphere, where a beautiful hinoki wood counter invites a truly immersive dining experience. The sushi, crafted by a chef who honed his skills at the legendary Sukiyabashi Jiro, represents the pinnacle of Edomae technique. Each piece features meticulously selected seafood and perfectly balanced rice, served with an artistry that makes every bite a memorable journey. They also pay close attention to drink pairings, enhancing the overall experience.
Price: Omakase courses typically range from ¥30,000 - ¥40,000+ (approx. $200 - $270+ USD) per person, often for dinner.
Getting There: Harutaka is conveniently located in Ginza, within walking distance from Ginza Station.
2. Ginza Katsukami
Cuisine: Omakase Tonkatsu (Deep-fried Pork Cutlet)
Ginza Katsukami redefines tonkatsu, transforming this comfort food into a refined omakase experience. I appreciate how each piece of high-quality pork, sourced from distinct varieties like Yonezawa-buta Ichiban Sodachi and Tokyo X-buta, is fried to perfection and served individually. The chef thoughtfully recommends the ideal condiment for each cut, allowing me to explore diverse flavors and textures. The interior provides a setting that feels special yet approachable.
Price: Lunch starts from ¥3,800 (approx. $25 USD), while dinner begins around ¥7,700 (approx. $50 USD) per person.
Getting There: The restaurant is easily accessible within the Ginza district.
3. Ginza Kagari Main Store
Cuisine: Ramen (Tori Paitan Soba)
A visit to Ginza Kagari is a must for ramen enthusiasts. The signature Tori Paitan Soba features a rich, creamy chicken bone broth, simmered until it's thick and white, almost like a savory potage. The noodles perfectly complement this hearty soup, and optional additions like white truffle elevate the experience. Despite its popularity and Michelin recognition, the atmosphere remains inviting, and it's pleasant to dine without long waits.
Price: Most bowls are around ¥1,000 (approx. $7-8 USD).
Getting There: The main store is a short five-minute walk from Ginza Station.
4. TsuruTonTan Udon Noodle Brasserie Ginza
Cuisine: Udon
Located on the tenth floor of Tokyu Plaza Ginza, TsuruTonTan offers a surprisingly grand setting for an udon restaurant. The generous portions of house-made noodles are a highlight, and I particularly appreciate the option to request up to three times the amount of noodles for free. It’s a versatile spot, perfect for a casual yet satisfying meal with friends or family, perhaps with a side of sashimi or tempura.
Price: Most udon bowls are around ¥1,500 (approx. $10 USD).
Getting There: Found on the 10th floor of Tokyu Plaza Ginza, it is easily walkable from Ginza Station.
5. Umegaoka Sushi no Midori Ginza
Cuisine: Sushi
For quality sushi that doesn't demand a high-end budget, Umegaoka Sushi no Midori is a fantastic choice. The sushi here is crafted with fresh ingredients sourced directly from Toyosu Fish Market, presented beautifully. I am always impressed by their dedication to excellent craftsmanship at an affordable price, making it an ideal spot for an authentic sushi experience without extravagance.
Price: Expect to pay around ¥2,000 - ¥5,000 (approx. $15 - $35 USD) per person, offering quality within a budget.
Getting There: This establishment is located within Ginza, typically a short walk from the main stations.
