🎌 OUR TOP TOKYO PICKS
If you've been somewhere more than once, you probably have a few favorite places to go or things to do. Well, here are a few of our favorite places and things in Tokyo... mostly in Ginza. (Side note: There are probably much more authentic/ local places we have yet to discover, as soon as we do though, we'll share 'em. Until then check out our 'must visit every trip' list below.)
STARBUCKS: There's nothing in this world like a good coffee. The milk, even the almond milk, just hits differently in Japan. I don't know what laws need to be passed here in the States to make this happen, but it needs to happen. The cow milk is so creamy but not too rich, and the almond milk (my personal go-to) is as rich as cream but not super sweet like in the States. It's smooth and delicious, unlike any almond milk here. I'm getting emotional just thinking about it.
Side note: They also have some super awesome unique foods and treats. Similar to in the States, seasonal treats are extra special. In Japan, Sakura season (March-April) is no exception. You have to try their Sakura Donuts, not too sweet yet just sweet enough.
'STREET PORK' AKA BEE CHENG HIANG: This is actually Singaporean, but the location in Japan we always visit is in Ginza. It offers the best, sweetest, and most tender pork jerky in the world. I might even steal the Hope Diamond for a lifetime supply. They offer a few flavor options; if you like spicy, they've got you covered. Personally, I prefer the sweet standard option; spice just interferes with the sweetness, but that's just me.
Side note: We always travel with ready-to-go mini trash bags because there are almost zero trash cans in public spaces in Tokyo. It helps keep the place clean, so come prepared. Also, we usually enjoy our fresh pork slices right outside the store because it's frowned upon to walk and eat in public there. You can also buy them in sealed packs to heat up and eat late.
MOS BURGER: This is a wonderful chain of fast-ish food restaurants found throughout Japan. Think Wendy's but better and much cleaner. (Although everything is by default cleaner in Tokyo compared to most places in the States.) The burgers are made fresh, which takes a few minutes but not ages. The real reason this place made the list is the burger sauce. It's messy, but it's worth it. All their main burgers come with a meaty/tomato/relish sauce on top of the patty that is incredibly messy yet equally tasty. Try to hold the burger in the paper sleeve while you eat so you can dip the fries in the extra sauce for added scrumptiousness.
Side note: Make sure to bring your own wet wipes. (Actually, you should always travel with these, honestly.) The napkins provided in the restaurant only absorb oil, like oil-absorbing face sheets. They're not great for cleaning up all the uneaten sauce that ends up on your hands. Also, they often have collaborations, like this One Piece promotion shown in the image, featuring cool kids' meal toys and merch—something I'm considering adding to the shop in the future.
GINZA LION: This is an iconic beer hall in Ginza, Tokyo. I wouldn't be surprised if local gangsters or mob bosses hang out here for afternoon beers. I'm not much of a drinker, but I do enjoy a small beer there once or twice during our trips. When it's hot out and you're exhausted from walking all day, a fresh, crisp cold beer is very welcome. They also offer a small variety of bar foods. For example, we might get the cheese plate, something to nibble on between sips while gossiping about the other patrons around us.
Side note: Don't take too many photos while you're in there. Whatever you do, don't take anyone's photo without asking. It's generally rude, and you never know who you might piss off, especially there.
TORAJI: This is an amazing, classy joint—a DIY BBQ restaurant offering a plethora of menu options, from raw onions to Kobe beef filet. It's up to you to choose your approach. We have no self-control and indulge like unsupervised children. We didn't even realize there were vegetables and salads until our 4th visit. All of their meats options are top-notch. They also offer seafood, intestines, and tongue options for those less faint of heart (I'm a fan, in moderation).
Side note: Be sure to book in advance, especially during local events as these restaurants fill up quickly. Also, if your grill gets too scorched for your liking or if someone in your party likes fish but you don't, ask for a grill change between servings. This way, you can avoid fish cooking juices on your precious steaks. Ha.
