“Do you have any Japanese food recommendations?”
This is one of the questions I get asked most often by visitors who have just arrived in Japan.
Since there are just too many delicious options to name in one conversation, I decided to put together a guide.
Let’s start with my top 10 Japanese lunches.
In the next post, I’ll share 10 dinner favorites!
*This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Contents
Ramen
A steaming bowl of ramen is a soul-warming treat.
From soy sauce-based shoyu to rich tonkotsu pork broth, there are many regional varieties to try.
Kids often love the noodles and can choose less spicy versions.
Sushi
Sushi is a must when in Japan.
For lunch, try a sushi set or visit a kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurant—fun for kids and adults alike.
Yakiniku (Grilled Meat, Wagyu!)
While often considered a dinner option, many yakiniku restaurants offer great lunch sets at lower prices.
You can grill your own bite-sized meat pieces at the table—an interactive experience kids usually love!
Tendon (Tempura Rice Bowl)
Tendon is a bowl of rice topped with crispy tempura like shrimp, vegetables, or fish.
The sweet soy-based sauce poured on top makes it flavorful and easy to eat.
Oyakodon
“Oyako” means parent and child — this comforting bowl of simmered chicken and soft-cooked egg over rice is a favorite among Japanese families and perfect for little ones too.
Japanese Curry Rice
Japanese curry is a thick, mildly spicy stew with meat and vegetables, served over rice. Unlike Indian curry, it’s sweeter, less spicy, and has a rich, stew-like texture.
It’s a popular comfort food in Japan, loved by both kids and adults.
Omurice (Omelet Rice)
A fusion of Western and Japanese cuisine, omurice is fried rice wrapped in a soft omelet, usually topped with ketchup or demi-glace sauce.
It’s cute, comforting, and very popular with children.
Tonkatsu (Pork Cutlet)
Tonkatsu is a crispy breaded pork cutlet, typically served with shredded cabbage and rice.
It’s crunchy on the outside and juicy inside—a lunch favorite that’s easy to love.
Udon (Wheat Noodles)
Udon noodles are thick, chewy, and served in a gentle broth—great for kids and anyone who prefers something light but filling. You’ll find variations with tempura, meat, or even cold udon in the summer.
Okonomi-yaki
Often called a “Japanese pancake,” okonomiyaki is made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings like pork, shrimp, or cheese.
Some restaurants let you cook it yourself at the table, which can be a fun family activity!
Tips & My favorite places
Tips in Japan:
To look for place to eat, Search the name of the food you craving on Google MAP,
it’ll recommend great places near you!
My Favorites Place
These are some of my personal favorites.
- Tonkatsu : Ichi-Ni-San (Really good & reasonable )
- Tendon: Kaneko Hannosuke Tsukiji store ( There are many branches )
- Udon : Tsurutontan Ginza (larger spaces, many flavor selections )
- Sushi : Sushizanmai – Okunoin store in Tsukiji (larger space, good for family)
- Yakiniku : Tendan Ginza (high quality & good cost performance)
As many visitors have expressed interest in making reservations ahead of time, I’ve selected restaurants where advance bookings are possible.
*Kindly note that most ramen shops in Japan do not accept reservations.
I hope you enjoy the food!
Coming soon: Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover “Top 10 Japanese Dinners to Try with Your Family!”
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