Top 5 Places to Eat in Shinjuku

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
19/08/2025
Bustling Shinjuku cityscape at night, Tokyo, showcasing neon lights and busy streets.
Ehsan Haque, Pexels

Shinjuku's dining scene is incredibly varied, offering everything from authentic casual eateries nestled in bustling alleyways to sophisticated fine dining experiences high above the city, catering to a wide range of visitors.

1. Sugoi Niboshi Ramen Nagi Golden Gai

Cuisine: Ramen (Niboshi)

Nestled within the lively Golden Gai district, Sugoi Niboshi Ramen Nagi is a must-visit for those craving a unique and intensely flavorful ramen experience. The establishment is famous for its 'Sugoi! Niboshi Ramen,' featuring an ultra-rich broth made from over 20 types of dried sardines, delivering a deeply satisfying umami punch. It operates 24 hours, making it an excellent choice for a late-night meal after exploring Shinjuku's vibrant nightlife. The atmosphere is authentically bustling and compact, providing a true local ramen shop feel.

Price: Approximately ¥1,000 - ¥1,500 per person (~$7-$10 USD)

Getting There: Located in Golden Gai, a short walk (about 5-10 minutes) from Shinjuku Station East Exit.

2. Udon Shin

Cuisine: Udon (Handmade)

Udon Shin is renowned for its freshly made, thick udon noodles with a glossy sheen and firm, chewy texture. A standout dish is their innovative Carbonara Udon, which combines traditional Japanese noodles with a rich, Western-inspired sauce. The restaurant prides itself on using quality ingredients, with noodles boiled to order for optimal freshness. Expect a cozy atmosphere, often with a queue, especially during peak hours, which speaks to its popularity among both locals and international visitors.

Price: Approximately ¥1,000 - ¥2,500 per person (~$7-$17 USD)

Getting There: About a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station South Exit.

3. Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi

Cuisine: Tempura

With a history dating back to 1923, Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi offers a traditional tempura dining experience. Diners can observe skilled chefs preparing each piece of tempura right before their eyes, ensuring freshness and a light, crispy batter. The interior maintains an old-school charm, providing a comfortable setting to enjoy a variety of perfectly fried seasonal ingredients. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine in a classic setting.

Price: Lunch from ¥1,500 (~$10 USD), Dinner from ¥5,000 - ¥8,000+ (~$35-$55+ USD)

Getting There: A short walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit, close to BIC Camera.

4. Rokkasen

Cuisine: Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) & Shabu-shabu/Sukiyaki

Rokkasen is celebrated for offering high-quality Japanese Black Wagyu beef for yakiniku, shabu-shabu, and sukiyaki, making it a superb choice for a special occasion or a premium dining experience. The restaurant is dedicated to providing carefully selected cuts of meat, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Beyond the exceptional meat, the cozy ambiance makes it suitable for both intimate dinners and gatherings. It is a well-known destination for those looking to indulge in top-tier Japanese barbecue.

Price: All-you-can-eat courses from ¥6,000 - ¥10,000+ per person (~$40-$70+ USD)

Getting There: Located near Shinjuku Station East Exit, often within a 5-10 minute walk.

5. Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)

Cuisine: Izakaya (Yakitori, Oden, etc.)

Omoide Yokocho, affectionately known as Memory Lane or Piss Alley, is a nostalgic network of narrow alleyways brimming with small, intimate izakaya and food stalls. This vibrant district preserves an old Tokyo atmosphere and offers a quintessential Japanese casual dining and drinking experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of affordable dishes like yakitori (grilled skewers), motsuyaki (grilled offal), and oden (Japanese hot pot). It's perfect for a social evening, allowing diners to hop between tiny establishments and soak in the lively, authentic local culture.

Price: Dishes from ¥300 - ¥1,000 (~$2-$7 USD) per item, total bill varies greatly depending on consumption. Expect ¥2,000 - ¥4,000+ for a casual meal with drinks (~$14-$28+ USD).

Getting There: Located just north of Shinjuku Station West Exit, a very short walk.

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