1. What are some must-try dishes in Yokohama Chinatown?
– Shumai (steamed pork or shrimp dumplings)– Xiaolongbao (soup-filled steamed buns)
– Mapo Tofu (soft tofu cooked in a spicy sauce)
– Peking Duck (roasted duck served with pancakes and hoisin sauce)
– Har gow (steamed shrimp dumplings)
– Char siu bao (sweet barbecue pork steamed buns)
– Lanzhou hand-pulled noodles
– Tangbao (soup-filled dumplings)
– Hotpot (various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients cooked in a broth at the table)
– Chinese-style fried rice or lo mein.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available in restaurants around Yokohama Chinatown?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options available in restaurants around Yokohama Chinatown. Some popular options include Buddha’s Food Lab, a vegetarian restaurant specializing in Chinese and Asian fusion dishes, and T’s TanTan, a vegan ramen shop. There are also many vegetarian-friendly sushi restaurants in the area, as well as some traditional Chinese vegetarian dishes served at various restaurants.3. How is the overall quality of food in the restaurants located in Yokohama Chinatown?
The overall quality of food in the restaurants located in Yokohama Chinatown is generally very good. Many of the restaurants offer authentic Chinese cuisine, with a focus on Cantonese and Szechuan dishes. The ingredients used are fresh and of high quality, and the preparation and presentation of the food is typically well-done.
Additionally, many of the restaurants in Yokohama Chinatown have been operating for decades, which speaks to their consistent quality and popularity among customers. With a wide variety of options from casual street food stalls to high-end fine dining establishments, visitors can find delicious dishes to suit any budget or preference. Overall, visitors can expect to have a satisfying dining experience in Yokohama Chinatown.
4. Is it considered rude to tip at restaurants in this area?
It is not considered rude to tip at restaurants in this area. In fact, tipping is customary and expected in most restaurants and other service industries. A standard tip is usually around 15-20% of the total bill, though it may vary based on the level of service provided. It is always a good idea to check if the restaurant includes a gratuity charge on the bill before adding an additional tip.
5. Where can I find the best bubble tea in Yokohama Chinatown?
There are several highly-rated bubble tea shops in Yokohama Chinatown, including Gong cha, Chun Shui Tang, and POP MILK. It is recommended to try out multiple shops to find your favorite one.
6. Can you recommend a good restaurant for traditional Chinese hot pot?
One highly recommended restaurant for traditional Chinese hot pot is Shu Guo Yan Yi in Beijing, China. They offer a wide variety of fresh meats, vegetables, and dipping sauces that can be cooked in their flavorful broth at your table. The atmosphere is also very authentic and the service is excellent. I would definitely recommend it for a delicious hot pot experience.
7. Are there any famous street food vendors in Yokohama Chinatown?
Yes, there are several famous street food vendors in Yokohama Chinatown. Some popular ones include:1. Kiyoken – known for their delicious dumplings and gyoza
2. Linji Renshan – known for their juicy steamed buns (sheng jian bao)
3. Manryu Hanten – known for their la mian (hand-pulled noodles)
4. Tenpura-Hompo Akasaka – known for their tempura dishes
5. Bun Bun Tea House – known for their steamed buns filled with various flavors such as red bean paste or custard cream.
These are just a few of the many famous street food vendors that can be found in Yokohama Chinatown. It is best to explore the area and try out different foods from various vendors to truly experience the diversity of flavors in this vibrant neighborhood.
8. What time do most of the restaurants close in this area?
It depends on the specific restaurants. Some may close as early as 9 or 10pm, while others may stay open until midnight or later. It is best to check the opening and closing times of individual restaurants before planning a meal.
9. Is it necessary to make reservations for popular restaurants in advance?
In most cases, yes it is necessary to make reservations in advance for popular restaurants. This is especially true for high-end restaurants, special occasions, and peak tourist seasons. Without a reservation, you might not be able to secure a table or could end up waiting for a long time. Reservations also ensure that the restaurant can properly accommodate your party and have enough space and staff available for your visit. Some restaurants may also offer discounts or special perks for making a reservation in advance. It’s always best to call ahead or make a reservation through the restaurant’s website or app to avoid disappointment and ensure a smoother dining experience.
10. How is the level of spice and heat typically used in dishes served here?
The level of spice and heat used in dishes served here varies. Some dishes are mild, while others can be quite spicy. It is common for restaurants to offer a range of spice options, such as mild, medium, and hot, to accommodate different taste preferences. Customers can also request for their dish to be made more or less spicy according to their preference.
11. Are there any all-you-can-eat options available in Yokohama Chinatown?
Yes, there are several all-you-can-eat options available in Yokohama Chinatown. Some popular ones include:1. China Table Buffet: This restaurant offers a wide variety of Chinese dishes in a buffet style, with the option of all-you-can-eat for 90 minutes.
2. Bin Li Shuanbao: This restaurant specializes in shabu-shabu and hotpot dishes, offering an all-you-can-eat course for a fixed price.
3. Tenryu Surassei Shamon Chinatown-ten: This restaurant serves various types of skewered meat dishes at their grill counter and offers an all-you-can-eat option at a fixed price.
4. Red Orchid Ginmaku: This restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat dim sum menu, where you can choose from a wide selection of bite-sized delicacies.
5. Si Fang Cai Jia Yi Yuan: This restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat menu with a mix of traditional Chinese dishes as well as Japanese fusion dishes.
It is recommended to make reservations before visiting these restaurants, as they tend to get crowded during peak hours.
12. Do most restaurants accept credit cards, or is it better to bring cash?
Most restaurants do accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to bring some cash with you just in case. Some smaller or more casual places may only accept cash, so having some on hand can ensure that you won’t be caught off guard. Additionally, bringing cash can also help with budgeting and avoiding potential credit card fees or minimum purchase requirements.
13. Are there any recommended family-friendly restaurants in this area?
There are several recommended family-friendly restaurants in this area, including:
1. Red Robin – Burgers, fries, and other American favorites in a casual setting.
2. Olive Garden – Italian cuisine with large portions and a kids’ menu.
3. Applebee’s – Classic American dishes and a kids’ menu available.
4. The Cheesecake Factory – Variety of meals for both adults and children, plus delicious cheesecake desserts.
5. Chili’s – Tex-Mex inspired dishes and a kids’ menu.
6. California Pizza Kitchen – Unique pizzas, pasta dishes, and salads for the whole family to enjoy.
7. TGI Fridays – Casual atmosphere serving burgers, sandwiches, and other American fare with a kids’ menu.
8. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse – A wide selection of food options including pizza, burgers, salads, and more.
9. Denny’s – Affordable breakfast all day along with lunch and dinner options for the whole family.
10. IHOP – Breakfast favorites all day long along with lunch and dinner options for the family,
11. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store – Southern-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere with a country store attached.
12. Outback Steakhouse – Australian-inspired dishes along with steaks, seafood, chicken, and ribs on the menu for families to share.
13. Bob Evans – Delicious homestyle meals such as breakfast favorites or hearty comfort food dinners that everyone can enjoy together.
14. Can you recommend a good seafood restaurant with fresh local catches?
Yes, I would recommend checking out Halls Chophouse. They have a great selection of fresh seafood dishes made with local catches, and the quality is always top-notch.
15. What local drinks or beverages should I try while dining in Yokohama Chinatown?
Some popular local drinks and beverages to try while dining in Yokohama Chinatown include:
1. Green Tea: Known as “ocha” in Japanese, green tea is a popular beverage in Japan and can often be found on menus at restaurants in Chinatown.
2. Barley Tea: Also known as “mugicha,” barley tea is a refreshing and caffeine-free drink that is commonly served in Asian countries.
3. Shochu: This traditional Japanese spirit is made from various ingredients such as sweet potatoes, rice, or barley. It can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other beverages.
4. Sake: A fermented rice wine, sake is a staple beverage in Japan and comes in a variety of flavors and styles.
5. Plum Wine: Also called “umeshu,” this sweet and fruity wine is made by infusing Japanese plums into shochu. It can be served cold or hot.
6. Ramune: This popular Japanese soda comes in a distinctive glass bottle with a marble stopper that must be pushed down to open the drink.
7. Matcha Latte: Made from finely ground green tea powder, matcha latte has become a trendy option among coffee shop menus in recent years.
8. Calpis Soda: A non-carbonated soft drink made from fermented milk, Calpis has a light and slightly tangy flavor.
9. Japanese Beer: Some of the most well-known Japanese beer brands include Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo, and Suntory.
10. Yuzu Juice: Yuzu is a citrus fruit commonly used in Japanese cuisine and its juice has a distinctively fragrant and sour flavor that pairs well with seafood dishes.
16. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants located within or near Chinatown?
Yes, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants located within or near Chinatown. Some examples include:
1. Hakkasan Hanway Place (1 Michelin star) at 8 Hanway Place, a Chinese restaurant specializing in modern Cantonese cuisine.
2. Wen Chang at 17 Wardour Street (1 Michelin star), a Chinese seafood restaurant offering Cantonese, Sichuan and Hunan dishes.
3. The Araki (3 Michelin stars) at 12 New Burlington Street, which serves high-end sushi and sashimi omakase courses.
4. A Wong at 70 Wilton Road (1 Michelin star), a contemporary Chinese restaurant with a focus on regional cuisines.
5. Roka Aldwych (1 Michelin star) at 71 Aldwych, specializes in Japanese robatayaki grill dishes with some Chinese influences.
These restaurants are all located within a short distance from Chinatown.
17. How easy is it to navigate menus for non-Japanese speakers?
It may depend on the specific menu and how well the restaurant has adapted to catering to non-Japanese speakers. Some menus may have English translations or pictures to make it easier for non-Japanese speakers to understand, while others may require some knowledge of basic Japanese food terms or the use of translation apps. In general, larger cities and tourist areas tend to have more restaurants with English-friendly menus. However, for a more authentic dining experience off the beaten path, it may be necessary to communicate with staff or bring a language guidebook or app for assistance.
18. Do restaurants typically have English menus available upon request?
It depends on the country and the individual restaurant. In some countries, such as popular tourist destinations, it is common for restaurants to have English menus available. In other countries, the menus may only be in the local language. It is always best to ask the restaurant staff if they have an English menu available if you cannot read or understand the local language.
19 Are there any local specialties or seasonal dishes that I shouldn’t miss out on while visiting Yokohama Chinatown?
Yes, there are several dishes that you should not miss out on while visiting Yokohama Chinatown.
1. Nikuman (Steamed Buns) – This popular street food in Chinatown is a must-try. These fluffy buns are filled with savory pork or beef and are perfect as a quick snack while exploring the area.
2. Shumai (Steamed Dumplings) – Another popular street food, shumai is a type of steamed dumpling filled with minced pork and spices. It is often served with soy sauce or spicy mustard for dipping.
3. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings) – These delicate dumplings are filled with juicy meat and hot soup, making them a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
4. Mapo Tofu – A Szechuan dish made with tofu, ground meat, and a spicy chili bean paste sauce. This dish can be found in many Chinese restaurants in Chinatown.
5. Peking Duck – One of the most famous dishes from Beijing, Peking duck is also available in Yokohama’s Chinatown. The crispy duck skin and juicy meat make it a must-try dish.
6. Tangbao (Soup-filled Buns) – Similar to xiao long bao, tangbao has a thicker dough and more filling inside the bun. They are usually filled with a combination of pork, crab meat, or vegetables.
7. Egg Tart – A popular dessert in Hong Kong that can also be found in Yokohama Chinatown. These flaky pastries are filled with creamy custard and are best enjoyed warm.
8. Congee (Rice Porridge) – A comforting bowl of rice porridge mixed with various meats or vegetables is another must-try dish in Chinatown, especially during colder months.
9. Dandan Noodles – Originally from Szechuan province, these spicy noodles have become very popular in Japan. They are served with a sauce made from chili oil, Szechuan pepper, and minced pork.
10. Spring Rolls – Crispy fried rolls filled with various meats and vegetables, spring rolls are a common dish in Chinese cuisine and can be found in many restaurants in Yokohama Chinatown.
20 Can you recommend a budget-friendly restaurant option for someone on a tight budget?
Yes, I would recommend a local diner or cafe that offers affordable menu options such as sandwiches, soups, and salads. Another option could be a food truck or a street food vendor that offers delicious and budget-friendly dishes. Additionally, some fast-casual restaurants offer value menus with inexpensive meal options. It’s also worth checking out any local daily or weekly specials at restaurants in your area.