Sanuki Udon Iwai
3 Chome-28-7 Kamijujo, Kita City, Tokyo 114-0034, Japan
Sanuki Udon Iwai is tucked away in a quiet suburb of Tokyo. We first visited in March 2023, and the quaint interior paired with the delicious food left an immediate impression. Now, it’s a place we love returning to. All of the udon is made in-house, and you can taste the love and care the chef puts into every bowl.
After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the nearby shotengai (shopping street), just a three-minute walk away, or wander through the peaceful side streets. The owner, Iwai-san, has quite the personality and is known to be a fan of rock music, which is usually playing in the background. An English menu is available.
A word of advice: seating is limited and fills up quickly. Be ready to enjoy your meal and make space for the next guest so everyone can savor the experience.
Tsukuda Takisaburo Sushi and Eel
Japan, 〒130-0015 Tokyo, Sumida City, Yokoami, 1 Chome−3−20 両国江戸NOREN1F
This one was a surprising favorite that quickly became a tradition for us. We make a point to visit Takisaburo Tsukuda every single trip. Their incredible sushi sampler features everything from tuna and mackerel to octopus tentacle and raw scallop. The staff are warm, welcoming, and wonderfully attentive, while the chef himself is a gracious gentleman who clearly appreciates his customers.
Considering the quality and quantity of the fish, the value here is hard to beat. The restaurant is located in the Ryogoku area, directly connected to the JR Ryogoku Station. It’s part of a sumo exhibit building, with all the restaurants facing the dojo ring. Ryogoku is known as Tokyo’s sumo district, and the main sumo arena is just minutes away. If sushi is on your Tokyo list, this is my go-to spot, hands down.
Kikanbo Ramen
2 Chome-10-9 Kajicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0044, Japan
Kikanbo, in the Kanda area of Tokyo, is a devil-themed ramen shop perfect for spice lovers. Just a short walk from Kanda Station, it’s a personal favorite for its bold, flavorful bowls. The menu offers varying spice levels for both ramen and tsukemen, with the infamous “Oni Level” drawing in fans from across the city.
You can choose your spice in two ways, chili heat and Sichuan pepper tingle, or combine both if you’re feeling brave. If spice isn’t your thing, they also serve rich, comforting tonkotsu ramen with zero heat.
With limited seating, the expectation is to enjoy your meal and quickly make room for the next guest. The food is incredible, the atmosphere intense, and you get a front-row seat to the action in the kitchen. For ramen lovers, especially those who crave a fiery challenge, this spot is unmissable.
また後で!
Jacob and Katlyn