A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Old Tokyo: Asada’s Culinary Journey
Nestled in Nihonbashi Hamacho, this unassuming eatery tells a tale of culinary mastery spanning generations. Asada’s story began in 1958 in Kakigaracho before finding its current home in Hamacho in 1989.
Whether you’re seated at one of the three ground floor tables or enjoying traditional tatami seating upstairs (shoes off, please), Asada offers more than just a meal. It’s an immersion into a neighborhood that breathes with the rhythms of old Edo while pulsing with contemporary energy.
What’s the secret to Asada’s mouthwatering eel? It might be the current owner’s apprenticeship at Ginza’s famed “Chikuyotei,” where he mastered the art of eel preparation, from skewering to that final, perfect sear. This dedication to craft shines through in every bite, with the eel harmonizing beautifully with Asada’s signature sauce.
While eel may be the star, don’t overlook the unexpected hero of the menu: oyakodon. This chicken and egg rice bowl, priced at a mere 750 yen, has become a cult favorite. With its creamy eggs and perfect seasoning, it’s a dish that keeps regulars coming back for more.
The next time you find yourself in Nihonbashi Hamacho, seek out Asada. Order the unaju, savor the oyakodon, and let yourself be transported by the flavors of Tokyo’s living history. You might just discover your new favorite hidden gem in the city’s ever-evolving culinary landscape.
- Name: Asada
- Address: 3-36-2 Nihonbashihamacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Phone: +81-(0)3-3661-4085
- Hours: Monday through Friday 11:00 – 14:00 & 17:00 – 20:00 / Saturday 11:00 – 14:00 & 17:00 – 19:00
- Closed On: Sundays and National Holidays
- Budget: – JPY5,000
- Payment Options: Cash Only
