Shinjuku is a vibrant district known for its diverse food scene. Here are ten must-try local dishes:
1. Shinjuku Ramen
Preparation: Shinjuku 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 Shinjuku 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: Yakitori has been a staple of Shinjuku’s izakaya (pub) culture for decades, enjoyed with beer.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains chicken. Not vegetarian.
3. Tempura
Preparation: Seafood and vegetables are battered and deep-fried until golden and crispy.
Taste: Light and crispy, with a delicate crunch and mild sweetness from the batter.
History: Tempura was introduced to Japan by Portuguese traders in the 16th century and became a refined dish in Edo-era Tokyo.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains wheat and seafood. Vegetarian options available.
4. Tonkatsu (Pork Cutlet)
Preparation: A thick pork cutlet is breaded with panko and deep-fried until golden brown. It is served with shredded cabbage and a tangy tonkatsu sauce.
Taste: Crispy on the outside, juicy and tender inside, with a rich, savory flavor.
History: Tonkatsu became popular in Japan in the early 20th century, influenced by Western-style breaded meats.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains pork and wheat. Not vegetarian.
5. Sushi
Preparation: Fresh seafood is sliced and placed atop vinegared rice, often garnished with wasabi and soy sauce.
Taste: Clean and delicate, with a balance of sweetness, saltiness, and umami.
History: Sushi originated in Japan centuries ago as a method of preserving fish and evolved into an art form.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains seafood and rice. Vegetarian options available.
6. Shabu-Shabu
Preparation: Thinly sliced meat and vegetables are swirled in a hot broth and dipped in sauces before eating.
Taste: Light and fresh, with a balance of umami from the broth and richness from the dipping sauces.
History: Shabu-shabu was introduced to Japan in the mid-20th century, inspired by Chinese hot pot.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains meat and vegetables. Vegetarian options available.
7. 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.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains wheat. Fully vegetarian.
8. 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.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains pork and wheat. Not vegetarian.
9. 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 Shinjuku, where matcha sweets are now widely available.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains tea and dairy. Vegetarian options available.
10. Taiyaki (Fish-shaped Pastry)
Preparation: A pancake-like batter is poured into a fish-shaped mold and filled with sweet red bean paste.
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.
Ingredients & Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains wheat and sugar. Fully vegetarian.