Nakano is a vibrant neighborhood in Tokyo known for its diverse food scene. Here are ten must-try local dishes:
1. Nakano Ramen
Preparation: Nakano ramen features a rich, soy-based broth simmered for hours with pork bones, garlic, and miso. The noodles are firm and chewy, topped with chashu (braised pork), green onions, and a soft-boiled egg.
Taste: Deeply savory with a strong umami kick. The broth is thick and flavorful, while the noodles absorb its richness.
History: Ramen culture in Nakano grew alongside the area’s nightlife, catering to late-night diners and workers.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains pork and wheat. Not vegetarian.
2. Yakitori (Grilled Chicken Skewers)
Preparation: Chicken pieces are skewered and grilled over charcoal, seasoned with salt or a sweet soy glaze.
Taste: Smoky and juicy, with a slightly crispy exterior. The glaze adds a caramelized sweetness.
History: Nakano is known for its izakaya (pub) culture, where yakitori is a staple dish enjoyed with beer.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains chicken. Not vegetarian.
3. Tsukemen (Dipping Noodles)
Preparation: Thick noodles are boiled and served separately from a concentrated, spicy broth made with soy sauce, pork, and fish stock. The noodles are dipped into the broth before eating.
Taste: The broth is bold and spicy, while the noodles are chewy and absorb the flavors well.
History: Nakano’s tsukemen is known for its spicy broth, which became popular in the late 20th century.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains wheat and pork. Not vegetarian.
4. Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings)
Preparation: Dumplings are filled with minced pork, garlic, and cabbage, then pan-fried until crispy.
Taste: Crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful inside, with a garlicky kick.
History: Gyoza was introduced to Japan from China and became a popular street food. Nakano’s gyoza shops often serve gourmet versions with unique fillings.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains pork and wheat. Not vegetarian.
5. Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)
Preparation: A batter made of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage is mixed with seafood or meat and cooked on a hot griddle. It is topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
Taste: Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, with a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
History: Originally from Osaka, okonomiyaki became popular in Nakano as a casual street food.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains wheat and seafood. Vegetarian options available.
6. Udon
Preparation: Thick wheat noodles are boiled and served in a hot dashi-based broth or chilled with dipping sauce.
Taste: Soft and chewy, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
History: Udon has been a staple in Japan for centuries, originating in Buddhist temples. Nakano’s udon shops often serve refined variations with premium ingredients.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains wheat. Fully vegetarian.
7. Matcha Desserts
Preparation: Matcha is blended into cakes, ice cream, and traditional sweets like mochi.
Taste: Slightly bitter with a rich, earthy sweetness.
History: Kyoto’s matcha culture influenced dessert trends in Nakano, where matcha sweets are now widely available.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains tea and dairy. Vegetarian options available.
8. Taiyaki (Fish-shaped Pastry)
Preparation: A pancake-like batter is poured into a fish-shaped mold and filled with sweet red bean paste before baking.
Taste: Crispy on the outside, soft and sweet inside.
History: Taiyaki originated in Tokyo in the early 20th century and remains a popular street snack. Nakano’s taiyaki shops often offer premium fillings like custard or matcha.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains wheat and sugar. Fully vegetarian.
9. Izakaya-style Small Dishes
Preparation: Various small plates such as grilled skewers, fried foods, and pickled vegetables are served alongside drinks.
Taste: Savory and varied, with flavors ranging from smoky to tangy.
History: Izakaya dining has been a staple of Japanese nightlife for centuries, offering casual and social dining experiences. Nakano’s izakayas often serve refined versions of traditional dishes.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Varies. Vegetarian options available.
10. Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ)
Preparation: Thin slices of beef or pork are grilled at the table and dipped in a savory sauce.
Taste: Smoky and rich, with a slightly sweet and salty marinade.
History: Yakiniku became popular in Japan after World War II, influenced by Korean barbecue traditions. Nakano’s high-end yakiniku restaurants serve some of the best wagyu cuts available.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains meat. Not vegetarian.