1. What are the most popular dining options near Meiji Shrine?
Some popular dining options near Meiji Shrine include:1. Yoyogi Village (casual outdoor food court)
2. Harajuku Gyoza Lou (gyoza restaurant)
3. Narisawa (Michelin-starred fine dining)
4. Tonkatsu Maisen (tonkatsu restaurant)
5. Ichiran Ramen (ramen chain known for its tonkotsu broth ramen)
6. Yusoshi Cafe (traditional Japanese cuisine in a cozy setting)
7. Afuri (ramen and other light Japanese dishes)
8. Sweets Forest Harajuku (dessert cafe with various sweet treats)
9. Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka Honten (sushi conveyor belt restaurant)
10. Torikizoku Harajuku Takeshita-dori branch (casual yakitori restaurant).
2. Are there any traditional Japanese restaurants near Meiji Shrine?
Yes, there are several traditional Japanese restaurants near Meiji Shrine. Some popular options include Restaurant Gurney, which serves classic Japanese dishes such as sushi and tempura, and Shisen Hanten by Changi Municipal Hall, which specializes in Szechuan-style cuisine. Other options include Sushisho Masa, which offers a traditional omakase dining experience, and Sumibi Yakiniku Nakahara, known for its grilled meat dishes.
3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available in the area?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options available in the area. Some popular restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan dishes include:
– Loving Hut: a completely vegan restaurant with an extensive menu of plant-based dishes
– Freshii: a health-focused chain with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, such as salads, wraps, and bowls
– Bloom Cafe: a vegetarian cafe with dishes made from organic and locally sourced ingredients
– Greenhouse Juice Co.: a juice bar with freshly pressed juices, smoothie bowls, and plant-based meals
– Planta Burger: a vegan burger joint offering a variety of creative burgers made from plant-based ingredients.
4. Can you recommend a good local sushi restaurant nearby?
Sure, there are many great sushi restaurants in the area. Some popular options include Sushi Sakura, Sushi Ota, and Nobu San Diego. It ultimately depends on your preferences and budget, so I would suggest checking out online reviews or asking locals for their recommendations as well. Enjoy your meal!
5. Is there a specific dish or cuisine that is famous in this area?
Yes, there are several dishes and cuisines that are famous in this area, including deep dish pizza (a thick crust pizza baked in a pan), Chicago-style hot dogs (topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles and celery salt), Italian beef sandwiches (thinly sliced roast beef cooked in its own juices and served on a hoagie roll with giardiniera and peppers), Maxwell Street Polish sausage (Polish sausage on a bun with grilled onions and mustard), and the Chicago-style popcorn mix (a blend of caramel corn and cheese-flavored popcorn). Other popular cuisines in the area include Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Greek.
6. Are there any outdoor dining options with a view of the shrine?
Yes, there are a few outdoor dining options with a view of the shrine. Some of these include:
– The patio at Mitsuboshi Cafe overlooking the shrine and its torii gate.
– The balcony at Torikizoku restaurant, which offers views of both the shrine and the city skyline.
– Sushiden Kyoto Gion restaurant has an outdoor terrace with views of the shrine and surrounding traditional buildings.
– YOKYU Terrace, located on the grounds of Yasaka Shrine, offers a cafe-style menu and outdoor seating with views of the shrine.
– Kikusuiro restaurant has an open-air garden terrace that overlooks a waterfall and Yasaka Shrine.
7. Where can I find the best matcha dessert around Meiji Shrine?
There are several cafes and dessert shops within walking distance of Meiji Shrine that serve delicious matcha desserts. Some popular options include:
1. Nana’s Green Tea: This popular chain cafe specializes in matcha-flavored sweets, including matcha parfaits, cakes, and soft serve ice cream.
2. Kagurazaka Saryo: Located in the nearby Kagurazaka neighborhood, this cozy tea house serves a variety of traditional Japanese desserts made with high-quality matcha.
3. Matcha Bar by Maruyamaen: Just a short walk from Meiji Shrine, this shop offers a wide selection of matcha treats such as shaved ice, jelly, and pudding.
4. Souffle et Cie Meiji Jingu: This French patisserie features a signature matcha souffle that is highly raved about by customers.
5. Nakamura Tokichi: This traditional tea house serves an extensive menu of authentic Japanese sweets made with Uji matcha from Kyoto.
Note: It is always recommended to check the opening hours of these establishments before visiting as they may be closed on certain days or have limited hours due to COVID-19 restrictions.
8. Are there any street food vendors selling local snacks near the shrine?
Based on my research, there are a few street food vendors near the Kamakura Shrine that specialize in local snacks. Some popular options include grilled squid and octopus, sweet potato sticks, and matcha-flavored soft serve ice cream. These vendors can be found along the main streets leading up to the shrine, such as Wakamiya-Oji and Komachi-Dori. 9. Is it possible to have a picnic at Meiji Shrine and if so, where can I buy food for it?
Yes, it is possible to have a picnic at Meiji Shrine. There are designated picnic areas within the shrine grounds where visitors can relax and enjoy their food.There are several options for buying food for a picnic at Meiji Shrine:
1. Convenience stores – there are convenience stores located near the shrine entrance that sell a variety of pre-made meals, snacks, and drinks.
2. Food stalls – there are also food stalls scattered around the shrine, selling traditional Japanese snacks and drinks such as yakisoba (fried noodles), takoyaki (octopus balls), and matcha green tea.
3. Nearby supermarkets – if you prefer to prepare your own picnic food, there are supermarkets located within walking distance from the shrine.
4. Bento shops – there are bento (boxed lunch) shops in the neighborhood surrounding the shrine that offer a variety of bento options to take with you on your picnic.
It is important to note that picnics are only allowed in designated areas and no outside alcohol is permitted on the shrine grounds.
10. What are some must-try dishes at the nearby restaurants and cafes?
1. Spicy tuna roll at Sushi on Jones
2. Lobster bisque at Lure Fishbar
3. Patio Burger at The Breslin Bar & Dining Room
4. Buttermilk fried chicken sandwich at Fuku
5. Mushroom pizza at Ops
6. Avocado toast with poached eggs at Bluestone Lane Coffee
7. Truffle mac and cheese at The Bao Shoppe
8. Brunch tacos at Tacombi
9. Classic bagel and lox at Russ & Daughters Cafe
10. Artichoke dip at Freemans Restaurant
11. Do any of the restaurants offer special menus for visitors to Meiji Shrine?
Yes, some of the restaurants near Meiji Shrine offer special menus for visitors. These may include traditional Japanese dishes or fusion cuisine inspired by Meiji period recipes. Some restaurants also offer menus featuring ingredients grown in the shrine’s garden. It is recommended to inquire with the specific restaurant for their offerings and availability.
12. How far away are some of the top-rated Michelin-starred restaurants from Meiji Shrine?
Some of the top-rated Michelin-starred restaurants are located within a 10-20 minute drive from Meiji Shrine. However, it may take longer depending on traffic and public transportation options.
13. What are some good budget-friendly dining options around the shrine for travelers on a tight budget?
1. Street food vendors near the shrine: There are many street food vendors near the shrine selling various Japanese snacks and dishes at affordable prices.
2. Okonomiyaki restaurants: These Japanese savory pancakes are a popular and budget-friendly option in the area.
3. Ramen shops: Ramen is a staple in Japanese cuisine and there are many affordable ramen shops around the shrine.
4. Convenience stores: Many convenience stores in Japan offer a variety of ready-to-eat meals at very reasonable prices.
5. Kushikatsu restaurants: These restaurants serve deep-fried skewers of vegetables, meat, and seafood at affordable prices.
6. Udon noodle shops: Udon noodles are another popular and budget-friendly meal option in Japan, with many restaurants offering set meal menus for a reasonable price.
7. Donburi restaurants: Donburi is a type of Japanese rice bowl dish with various toppings that can be found at affordable prices around the shrine.
8. Family-style restaurants: These chain restaurants offer a variety of dishes at budget-friendly prices, making them a good option for travelers on a tight budget.
9. Bento boxes from supermarkets: Many supermarkets sell bento boxes (packed lunches) at discounted prices towards the end of the day, which can be a great option for an inexpensive meal on-the-go.
10. Food courts in shopping malls: Many shopping malls have food courts where you can find a variety of international and local dishes at affordable prices.
11. Vegetarian/vegan restaurants: For travelers on a tight budget who prefer vegetarian or vegan options, there are several affordable vegetarian/vegan restaurants around the shrine.
12. Curry rice shops: Curry rice is another popular dish in Japan that can be found at budget-friendly prices in specialty curry shops or even some fast food chains like Coco Ichibanya.
13. Izakaya (Japanese gastropubs): Many izakayas offer affordable set menus or all-you-can-eat/drink plans, making them a good option for budget-friendly dining.
14. Do any of the local restaurants offer English menus or have English-speaking staff?
Many local restaurants in popular tourist areas will likely offer English menus or have staff who can speak English. However, it is always best to check beforehand as some smaller, family-owned restaurants may not offer English menus or have English-speaking staff. You can usually check this information on their website or by calling ahead.
15.Are there any unique or traditional dining experiences like tea ceremonies near Meiji Shrine?
Yes, there are several unique or traditional dining experiences near Meiji Shrine, such as:
1. Tea Ceremony at Meiji Jingu Inner Garden: This experience allows visitors to participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Meiji Jingu Inner Garden.
2. Shabu-Shabu Dinner at Yoyogi-Uehara: This restaurant offers an authentic Shabu-Shabu dining experience, where diners can cook their own meat and vegetables in a hot pot filled with broth.
3. Kaiseki Dinner at Toko-an: Located within walking distance of Meiji Shrine, this traditional Japanese restaurant serves exquisite multi-course kaiseki meals made with seasonal ingredients.
4. Wagashi Making Workshop at Etohiro: Visitors can learn how to make traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) at this workshop, which also includes a tea ceremony and tasting session.
5. Soba Noodle Making Experience at Furusato-Soba Wadachi: Soba noodles are a staple in Japanese cuisine and visitors can learn to make them from scratch at this restaurant’s hands-on workshop.
6. Robatayaki Dinner at Toriyoshi: This restaurant specializes in robatayaki, a type of Japanese cuisine where food is grilled on skewers over charcoal. Diners can choose from a variety of fresh seafood, meat, and vegetables.
7. Tempura Kappou Saeki: This restaurant serves high-quality tempura dishes made with fresh seasonal ingredients, following the traditional kaiseki-style course meal format.
Please note that some of these dining experiences may require advance reservations.
16.What is the best time of day to visit these dining places for both locals and tourists?
As a AI I don’t have personal preferences, but the best time to visit these dining places would depend on your personal schedule and preference. Generally, it’s recommended to visit during non-peak hours, such as early in the morning or late at night, to avoid crowds and long wait times. However, some restaurants may offer special lunch or dinner menus that are only available during certain times of day. It is best to check with each specific restaurant for their hours and peak times.
17.Are reservations necessary for popular restaurants in this area?
It is always recommended to make reservations for popular restaurants in any area, including this one. This helps ensure that you have a guaranteed seat and avoids potential wait times. Additionally, some restaurants may require reservations in order to dine at certain times or on certain days. It’s best to check with the specific restaurant for their reservation policy.
18.How late do these restaurants typically stay open?
This can vary depending on the specific restaurant. Generally, chain fast food restaurants may stay open until 10pm or later, while casual dining or sit-down restaurants may close at around 9pm-11pm. Some establishments, such as bars and nightclubs, may stay open even later, sometimes until the early morning hours. It is best to check the hours of operation for each individual restaurant.
19.Do you have any recommendations for trying out authentic Japanese street food around Meiji Shrine?
1. Harajuku Gyoza Lou: This popular gyoza chain is located just a short walk from Meiji Shrine and offers delicious, crispy dumplings stuffed with various fillings such as pork, chicken, and vegetables.
2. Takeshita Street Food Stalls: Takeshita Street is known for its trendy fashion shops, but it’s also home to many street food stalls selling popular Japanese snacks like crepes, taiyaki (fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste), and takoyaki (octopus balls).
3. Kagetsudo: Located near the entrance of Meiji Shrine, this old-fashioned snack shop specializes in imagawayaki (pancake-like desserts filled with sweet red bean paste) cooked on a traditional charcoal stove.
4. Kawaii Monster Cafe: If you’re looking for a unique street food experience, this colorful cafe offers creative takes on classic dishes such as rainbow-colored cotton candy, monster burgers, and multicolored popcorn.
5. Crème de la Crème: For something sweet and refreshing, try the famous croquant chou a la creme at this stylish dessert shop located in front of Meiji Shrine. These crispy choux pastries are filled with custard cream and topped with various flavors like matcha or strawberry.
6. Shibuya Otoya Stand: Just a short train ride away from Meiji Shrine, this stand offers delicious grilled skewers of meat and vegetables along with refreshing cold sake perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
7. Yayoi Tea House Omotesando: This charming teahouse near Omotesando Station serves up traditional Japanese tea sets along with savory treats such as udon noodles and freshly baked melon bread filled with ice cream.
8. Satei Hatou: This cozy coffee shop has been around since 1932 and is known for its delicious light snacks like fluffy pancakes and delicate chiffon cakes.
9. Hachinoki: Located just behind Meiji Shrine, this small pub offers a selection of craft beers and authentic Japanese dishes like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and ramen.
10. Kyoto Gion Tsujiri: This popular matcha green tea specialty shop serves up delicious soft-serve ice cream cones topped with red bean paste and mochi (rice cake) balls. Perfect for a refreshing treat after a visit to the shrine.
20.Are there any local markets or specialty shops where one can buy local produce and ingredients used in traditional Japanese cuisine that are recommended to visit while in this area?
Yes, there are a few recommended markets and shops where one can buy local produce and ingredients used in traditional Japanese cuisine.
1. Nishiki Market: Located in Kyoto, Nishiki Market is a bustling covered market known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” It offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, locally-grown vegetables and fruits, and other specialty items.
2. Tsukiji Outer Market: Located in Tokyo, Tsukiji Outer Market is home to over 400 shops selling fresh seafood, as well as kitchenware and other Japanese cooking ingredients.
3. Kibune no Kawadoko: A riverside village near Kyoto known for its traditional kawadoko dining experience. Here you can purchase locally-grown vegetables, bamboo shoots, wild mushrooms and other seasonal produce from nearby farmers.
4. Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street: In Tokyo’s Togoshi neighborhood, this shopping street features many food stalls selling fresh seafood, meats, vegetables and other grocery items.
5. Sake breweries: The Fushimi area of Kyoto is famous for its sake production and offers a variety of shops where visitors can buy locally-produced sake to take home.