Step into Shibuya, a city that pulsates with an undeniable energy that reflects its position at the forefront of fashion and culture. This metropolis is a hub for all things trendy and chic, from the latest haute couture to the most delectable gourmet cuisine. As you make your way through the bustling streets, you can’t help but be drawn to the iconic Shibuya scramble crossing, one of Tokyo’s most recognizable landmarks.
The hypnotic scene is a flurry of movement, with a wave of pedestrians surging forward with each change of the traffic lights. Above them, a kaleidoscope of digital signage explodes with vibrant colors and boisterous sounds, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. It’s easy to lose yourself in the excitement of it all, as Shibuya is always teeming with people and endless possibilities.
One of the greatest draws of this vibrant city is its rich culinary scene, with an abundance of restaurants that cater to every taste and preference. With so many options, it’s not uncommon to feel a bit overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. Fear not, as we’ve compiled a list of some of the most recommended eateries in Shibuya. So why not take a culinary adventure and explore the best that this city has to offer?
Katsudonya Zuicho (かつどん屋 瑞兆)
Zuicho is a renowned katsu-don eatery situated in the bustling neighborhood of Shibuya. A mere 10-minute walk from JR Shibuya Station, the restaurant is located in proximity to the NHK Broadcast Center and the Tokyu Shibuya Main Store. Concealed in a building, it is imperative to keep a vigilant eye so as not to miss it. The establishment is compact, boasting only 8 counter seats.
Matsukiya (松木家)
Matsukiya is located in an alleyway very close to Dogenzaka Ue Police Box. From Shibuya Station start walking towards Shibuya 109 shopping mall and walk up Dogenzaka hill until you reach a police box. Look for a sign with a restaurant name in Japanese characters out front and walk up to the second floor of the building.
Shibuya Morimoto (渋谷 森本)
Morimoto can be located immediately after exiting the west exit of Keio Inokashira line, a short distance north of Shibuya Mark City, a building complex directly connected to Shibuya station. Look for a red lantern outside and a rope curtain hang in front of the door.
Morimoto originally started out in 1948 as a stall selling dojo (loach) and unagi (eel). Morimoto serves a wide variety of yakitori, both meat and vegetable dishes. All the skewers are grilled with binchotan, a high-quality charcoal in Japan.
Ryan (雷庵)
The restaurant is situated on a side street just off Miyamasuzaka, an avenue which winds its way uphill from Shibuya station towards Aoyama.
The interior of Ryan does not give the impression of a typical soba restaurant. The glass-walled restaurant allows natural light to shine through and provide a warm and friendly atmosphere. A modern bistro or a stylish wine stand may come to mind when looking at the solid wood counter seats surrounding the kitchen. The open-style kitchen generates a well-balanced mix of Japanese and Western style dishes. In the back corner, there is a room where you can see the soba noodles being made behind a glass screen.
Yakiniku Horumon Araiya Shibuya (焼肉ホルモン 新井屋 渋谷)
Araiya is a yakiniku establishment celebrated for its fresh meats. Nestled in the bustling, hidden backstreets of Shibuya Dogenzaka, the restaurant takes pride in its provision of high-quality hormone meats with delectable seasoning. The flagship store of the establishment is located in Koenji, Suginami-ku, Tokyo. Incidentally, there is also another branch, known as Hanare, located along the same street.
