1. Are there any popular restaurants in Akihabara that serve traditional Japanese dishes?
Yes, there are several popular restaurants in Akihabara that serve traditional Japanese dishes. Some of these include:
1. Shinshu Soba – This restaurant specializes in soba (buckwheat) noodles and offers a variety of traditional dishes such as hot soba noodles in broth or cold zaru soba served with dipping sauce.
2. Maguro Bito – Famous for their tuna sashimi, this restaurant also offers other traditional dishes like tempura, grilled fish, and udon noodles.
3. Sanpeiya – Known for their tonkatsu (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet), this restaurant also serves various other traditional Japanese dishes such as katsudon (pork cutlet and egg over rice).
4. Asakusa Imahan – This restaurant is known for its wagyu beef shabu-shabu (hot pot), a popular traditional dish that involves cooking thinly sliced beef in boiling water or broth.
5. Nikuzushi – This unique restaurant serves raw horse meat sushi, a local delicacy in Japan.
6. Oden Kita no Shouten – This is a popular place to try oden, a type of Japanese hot pot dish with different ingredients simmered in broth.
7. Kyushu Jangara Ramen Akihabara Ekimae Shop – For those looking for comfort food, this ramen shop serves delicious bowls of traditional ramen made with rich broths and homemade noodles.
8. Toritaka Farm – This restaurant specializes in yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) made with high-quality chicken from their own farm.
These are just some examples of popular restaurants serving traditional Japanese dishes in Akihabara. You can also find many izakayas (Japanese pubs) and small family-run restaurants offering homestyle Japanese cuisine in the area.
2. Can you recommend any good sushi restaurants in the area?
Sure, here are a few options:
1. Sushi Zo – This is a highly-rated sushi spot in Hollywood known for their omakase experience and high-quality fish.
2. Sugarfish – With locations throughout LA and Orange County, Sugarfish offers affordable yet delicious sushi options made with sustainable fish.
3. KazuNori – Located in Downtown LA and Santa Monica, this restaurant specializes in hand rolls made with fresh ingredients.
4. Sushi Gen – A popular spot in Little Tokyo known for their generous portions and excellent selection of rolls and sashimi.
5. Nobu Malibu – For a more upscale dining experience, Nobu offers top-notch sushi in a beautiful beachfront setting.
I hope you enjoy one (or more) of these options!
3. What are some must-try street food options in Akihabara?
1. Takoyaki – small balls of batter filled with diced octopus, pickled ginger, and green onions
2. Okonomiyaki – savory Japanese pancake topped with various ingredients like cabbage, pork belly, and cheese
3. Yakisoba – stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat or seafood
4. Taiyaki – fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste, custard, or chocolate
5. Kakigori – shaved ice dessert topped with flavored syrup and condensed milk
6. Gyoza – Japanese dumplings filled with ground meat and vegetables
7. Kushikatsu – skewered and deep-fried meats or vegetables
8. Tako Tamago – grilled baby octopus stuffed with quail eggs
9. Melonpan – sweet bun covered in a thin layer of cookie dough
10. Ramen – delicious broth-based noodle soup topped with various ingredients like pork slices, egg, and green onions.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in the neighborhood?
Some vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants near Sheepshead Bay include:1. Vegetarian Ginger: This Chinese restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options such as steamed veggie dumplings, mock meat dishes, and vegetable stir-fries.
2. Quintessence: This fully vegan restaurant offers raw and cooked vegan dishes, including salads, wraps, and burgers made from plant-based ingredients.
3. New Golden Fountain: This Buddhist-style restaurant serves up delicious vegetarian versions of traditional Chinese dishes like General Tso’s tofu and sesame “chicken.”
4. VSpot Organic: A Latin-inspired vegan restaurant that offers a wide range of plant-based dishes like empanadas, tacos, and sandwiches.
5. House of Dosas: This South Indian restaurant has a large selection of vegetarian dosas (savory crepes) and other vegetarian dishes.
5. Is it common for restaurants in Akihabara to have English menus available?
It depends on the restaurant. Some restaurants in Akihabara cater to foreign tourists and may have English menus available, while others may only have Japanese menus. It is always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or ask the staff beforehand if an English menu is available.
6. Are there any themed cafes or restaurants worth checking out in Akihabara?
Yes, there are several themed cafes and restaurants in Akihabara that are worth checking out. Some popular ones include:
– Maid Cafes: These cafes feature waitresses dressed in maid costumes who address customers as “Master” or “Mistress.” Some well-known options include @Home Cafe and Maidreamin.
– AKB48 Cafe and Shop: This cafe is themed after the popular Japanese idol group AKB48. Customers can enjoy food and drinks while watching live performances by AKB48 members on a stage inside the cafe.
– Gundam Cafe: As the name suggests, this cafe is based on the popular anime series Gundam. It features themed dishes and drinks, as well as displays of Gundam figures and memorabilia.
– Alice in Wonderland Cafe: Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic tale, this cafe offers a whimsical dining experience with its Alice-themed decor and menu items.
– Kawaii Monster Cafe: This colorful and quirky restaurant is designed to look like a monster’s stomach. The menu features creative dishes such as rainbow spaghetti and rainbow-colored burgers.
– GUNDAM Square: Located inside the Akihabara UDX building, GUNDAM Square is a complex featuring multiple Gundam-themed restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s a must-visit for fans of the franchise.
7. Can you find international cuisine options within walking distance of Akihabara station?
Yes, there are several international cuisine options within walking distance of Akihabara station. Here are a few examples:
1. El Torito: This Mexican restaurant is located on the 8th floor of the Yodobashi Akiba building, just a 2-minute walk from Akihabara station. They offer a variety of Tex-Mex dishes including tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas.
2. Summers Cafe: Located about a 6-minute walk from Akihabara station, this cafe offers a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine, including burgers, pasta, and curry dishes.
3. Da Mario Italian Restaurant: Just a 4-minute walk from Akihabara station, this Italian restaurant serves up classic dishes such as pizza, pasta, and risotto.
4. Noodle Stand Tokyo: This noodle shop is situated in the Manseibashi shopping complex, which is about an 8-minute walk from Akihabara station. They specialize in ramen with various toppings such as chicken katsu or roast beef.
5. New York Bar & Grill: Located inside the Royal Park Hotel Tokyo on the 24th floor, this upscale restaurant serves American-style steak and seafood dishes with stunning views of the city.
These are just a few options within walking distance of Akihabara station – there are many more to explore!
8. What is the typical price range for a meal at a restaurant in Akihabara?
The price range for a meal at a restaurant in Akihabara can vary greatly depending on the type of restaurant and the menu items. Generally, you can expect to pay around 800-1,500 yen ($7-$14 USD) for a simple meal like ramen or bento boxes at casual restaurants or food stalls. For a more upscale dining experience, prices can range from 3,000-5,000 yen ($27-$45 USD) per person.
9. Is it safe to eat street food from vendors around the area?
It is generally safe to eat street food from vendors around the area as long as they follow proper food safety and hygiene measures. It is recommended to observe the cleanliness of the vendor and the handling of food before deciding to purchase anything. It is also a good idea to choose cooked dishes over raw ones and to opt for vendors with a high turnover rate, indicating that their food is fresh and in demand.
10. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants located in Akihabara?
As of 2021, there are no Michelin-starred restaurants located in Akihabara. Most Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo are concentrated in the Ginza, Shinjuku, and Shibuya areas.
11. Can you recommend any budget-friendly dining options near the Akihabara Electric Town shopping district?
Yes, here are some budget-friendly dining options in the Akihabara Electric Town shopping district:
1. Hanamaru Udon – a popular chain restaurant serving delicious, affordable udon noodles.
2. Coco Ichibanya – another popular chain known for its affordable and customizable Japanese curry dishes.
3. Matsuya – a fast-food chain serving gyudon (beef bowl) and other rice bowls at reasonable prices.
4. Honolu Ramen-ya – offers tasty ramen at reasonable prices with a menu available in English.
5. Sukiya – another fast-food chain offering affordable gyudon and other rice bowls.
6. Bamiyan – serves various Chinese dishes at affordable prices, with an English menu available.
7. Ootoya – a casual restaurant serving traditional Japanese home-style dishes at reasonable prices.
8. Convenience Stores (such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson) – offer a variety of ready-to-eat meals at very low prices.
12. Are reservations required for popular restaurants in this area, or can you walk-in easily?
It depends on the specific restaurant. Some popular restaurants in this area may require reservations, especially during peak times or for large groups, while others may accept walk-ins. It is recommended to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to inquire about reservation requirements.
13. Is tipping expected at restaurants in Japan, specifically in Akihabara?
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, and it is not expected at restaurants in Akihabara. In fact, some establishments may even see it as rude or offensive. The cost of your meal typically includes service charges so there is no need to leave a tip. However, if you feel that the service was exceptional, a small tip or gesture of appreciation (such as saying “thank you” in Japanese) can be accepted.
14. Can you find western fast food chains such as McDonald’s or KFC around Akihabara?
Yes, there are several McDonald’s and KFC locations within walking distance of Akihabara.
15. How late do most restaurants stay open in Akihabara?
Most restaurants in Akihabara stay open until around 11pm, but there are also some that stay open later, especially those that cater to the late-night and otaku crowds. Some may even be open 24 hours or have special late-night hours on weekends. It’s best to check individual restaurant websites or ask staff for their specific closing times.
16. Are there any all-you-can-eat options available at local eateries?
Yes, there are all-you-can-eat options available at some local eateries. Some popular choices for all-you-can-eat meals include buffets at Chinese or Indian restaurants, unlimited sushi options at Japanese restaurants, and bottomless brunch options at some cafes and diners.
17. Is it common for restaurants to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies in Japan/Akihabara?
Yes, it is common for restaurants in Japan/Akihabara to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Many restaurants offer menu options specifically for customers with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free dishes. Some larger restaurants may also have staff who are trained to handle food allergies and can advise customers on which dishes are safe for them to eat. However, it is always a good idea to inform the restaurant staff of any allergies or dietary restrictions before ordering, so they can ensure that your meal is prepared safely and to your specifications.
18. Do most eateries accept credit cards, or is it better to have cash on hand?
Most eateries in the United States will accept credit cards as a form of payment. It is always a good idea to have some cash on hand as well, just in case there are any issues with your card or if you need to leave a tip. However, it is not necessary to have cash on hand at all times, as most places will accept credit cards.
19. Is it possible to get a reservation at a famous/popular restaurant through a concierge service without knowing Japanese?
Yes, it is possible to get a reservation at a famous/popular restaurant through a concierge service without knowing Japanese. Many concierge services offer assistance with making reservations at top restaurants in Japan and can communicate with the restaurant on your behalf in English or other languages. However, it is always helpful to have some basic knowledge of Japanese language and culture when dining out in Japan as it can enhance your overall experience.
20.Could you recommend some specialty dishes or unique local foods that are only found in Akihabara?
1. Otaku Ramen – This ramen is specifically tailored to the tastes of otakus, meaning it has a lot of unique toppings and flavors that you won’t find in standard ramen bowls.
2. Pudding a la Mode – A popular dessert in Akihabara, this dish features creamy pudding topped with matcha ice cream and mochi balls.
3. Maid Cafe-style Omurice – Omurice is a classic Japanese dish, but in Akihabara, you can find variations that are made in the shape of cute characters or feature special sauces and toppings inspired by maid cafes.
4. Takoyaki Croissant – This hybrid pastry combines the flaky goodness of a croissant with the savory flavors of takoyaki (octopus balls). It’s a must-try for any foodie visiting Akihabara.
5. Curry Milk Tea – While not exclusive to Akihabara, this sweet and spicy tea is a specialty drink often served at anime-themed cafes in the area.
6. Okonomiyaki Hotdog – Another fusion food found in Akihabara, this hotdog uses okonomiyaki batter as the bun and is topped with yakisoba noodles, cabbage, and various sauces.
7. Chocolate Cornet – Anpanman’s favorite treat, this chocolate-filled pastry can only be found at select bakeries in Akihabara.
8. Matcha-Infused Soft Serve Ice Cream – Matcha (green tea) is a popular flavor in Japan, and you’ll find it infused into soft serve ice cream cones sold throughout Akihabara.
9. Sake-Flavored KitKat – KitKats come in many unique flavors in Japan, including sake-flavored ones which can be found at souvenir shops all over Akihabara.
10. Katsu Dog – This unique twist on the classic hot dog features a crispy pork cutlet (katsu) instead of a traditional sausage, often topped with tonkatsu sauce and shredded cabbage.
11. Pikachu Curry – At the Pokemon Center in Akihabara, you can purchase a cute and tasty curry dish featuring Pikachu’s face made out of rice.
12. Coffee Jelly Milk Tea – A refreshing beverage found at many bubble tea shops in Akihabara, this drink combines coffee jelly with milk tea for a unique texture and flavor.
13. Chirashi Sushi Donut – A popular dish at some sushi restaurants in Akihabara, this sushi donut is made by arranging various types of sashimi on top of a bed of rice shaped like a donut.
14. Chocolate Ramen – Yes, even ramen can have a sweet twist in Akihabara! This dessert ramen is made with cocoa-flavored broth and topped with chocolate noodles and whipped cream.
15. Monster Burger – If you’re feeling adventurous, try this giant burger topped with all kinds of crazy ingredients like grilled cheese sandwiches, bacon strips, and more. It’s not for the faint of heart!