Welcome back to our 8 Days in Tokyo series! In this episode, I’m taking you on a thrilling journey through two of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts: Shinjuku and Shibuya. Get ready to experience the energy, the flavors, and the unique charm that makes Tokyo so special!
Shinjuku: A City Within a City
Shinjuku is a city within a city, bursting with energy and trendy vibes. From towering skyscrapers to bustling streets, this is a place where the latest trends in fashion, food, and entertainment collide. Whether you’re exploring the underground bars of Golden Gai or browsing the luxury department stores, Shinjuku effortlessly blends the traditional with the ultra-modern.
Imagine a district that never sleeps, offering everything from cutting-edge robot restaurants to serene green spaces. It’s a place where you can find something for everyone.
Gyukatsu Motomura: Steak Nirvana
Our first stop in Shinjuku was Gyukatsu Motomura, a restaurant renowned for its succulent gyukatsu—Japanese breaded beef cutlets. We were excited to introduce this culinary delight to my parents!
While tonkatsu, or fried pork cutlets, is a popular dish outside of Japan, gyukatsu is its unique beef counterpart. We were treated to our own individual sets, complete with barley rice, soup, and an array of side dishes.
The star of the show was the perfectly medium-rare steak, with beautiful marbling. The best part? You get to finish grilling your gyukatsu on a hot stone to your liking! It’s a truly interactive and delicious experience.
My personal favorite was the grated mountain yam. It was incredibly tasty, especially when paired with the steak. My dad was absolutely smitten with the steak’s crispy exterior and tender interior. He couldn’t believe how well-cooked it was!
A Pro Tip for Gyukatsu Motomura
Our previous visit to Gyukatsu Motomura involved a long, hour-and-a-half wait. But this time, we lucked out! By arriving at 2:00 pm on a Tuesday, we walked straight in with no line. If you’re planning a visit, aim for off-peak hours to avoid the crowds.
Ichiran Ramen: A Unique Ramen Experience
Next on our Shinjuku adventure was Ichiran Ramen, a national chain renowned for its thick tonkatsu broth, consistent quality, and customizable bowls. My dad had specifically requested a visit, and I was happy to oblige!
Ichiran offers a unique dining experience with individual booth seatings and privacy screens. You order your ramen on a touch screen, receive your ticket, and enjoy your meal in private. This is a perfect spot for introverts who crave a personalized and peaceful dining experience.
The rich and creamy tonkatsu broth perfectly complements the springy, chewy noodles. It’s a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. And let’s not forget the perfectly cooked egg, with its deliciously gooey consistency. It was a hit with my dad, who was experiencing Ichiran for the first time.
A Debate: Overhyped or a Must-Try?
Ichiran is certainly a unique ramen experience that’s worth trying on your first trip to Tokyo. While some might argue it’s overhyped, there’s no denying its ability to satisfy a specific craving. Remember that lines are common at Ichiran, but you might get lucky and find a shorter wait.
Uotake: A Fresh Start to the Day
Before heading over to Shibuya, we recharged with a delicious Japanese breakfast at Uotake in Tsukiji, near our hotel. This unassuming restaurant serves up the freshest fish in town, with a simple yet satisfying menu.
The set comes with a main dish, two pickles, a side of sashimi, and unlimited rice and miso soup.
The perfectly grilled salted salmon was heavenly with their fluffy rice. The grated daikon with vinegar added a delightful pop to the salty flavors. And the chopped tuna sashimi was incredibly fresh, needing only a quick dip of soy sauce to bring out its natural flavors.
Uotake: Be Prepared to Wait
Be prepared for a wait at Uotake. We arrived 20 minutes before they opened, and still had to wait in line. Get there early to ensure you snag a spot!
Shibuya: The Heartbeat of Tokyo
Shibuya is the iconic district of youth culture and fashion, home to the famous Shibuya Crossing. The district is a buzzing blend of fun theme cafes, vibrant nightclubs, and innovative restaurants, making it a haven for foodies, fashionistas, and nightlife enthusiasts.
For my parents, experiencing the Shibuya Crossing was a highlight. The energy and excitement of navigating through the sea of people was an unforgettable experience, turning a simple walk into a thrilling adventure. We even found ourselves crossing back and forth four times!
Yakitori Toritake: A Charcoal Grill Delight
As the evening unfolded, our quest for comfort food led us to the doorstep of Toritake, a charming yakitori restaurant. The sight of the chef masterfully grilling skewers outside was an irresistible invitation.
The aroma wafting from the restaurant was intoxicating, and we were eager to try everything. The skewers are roasted over a charcoal grill, giving them a wonderful char flavor. We sampled almost every part of the chicken, and the chicken skin skewers were a standout—crispy, flavorful, and utterly addictive.
A Night of Skewers and Laughter
We spent almost three hours at Toritake, lost in conversation, laughter, and the simple pleasure of skewer after skewer. There’s something special about ending a day like this, surrounded by good food and loved ones.
Toritake is located near the Shibuya station exit, and often has a line. Don’t worry, it moves quickly. If you’re in the area and have some time, I highly recommend stopping by for a taste of yakitori heaven!
More Tokyo Adventures Await!
From the bustling markets of Tsukiji to the luxury shopping of Ginza, we’ve had an unforgettable time exploring Tokyo with my parents. To see the full scope of our adventure, make sure to check out our COMPLETE TOKYO VLOG and 8 Days in Tokyo series.
We’ve had an amazing time sharing these experiences with you. Stay tuned for more food adventures in our upcoming episodes!
