15 Best Restaurants in Shinjuku: Tokyo's Culinary Gem

Unearthing the Best Restaurants in Shinjuku, Tokyo

Famed as one of Tokyo’s liveliest areas, Shinjuku is probably what comes to mind when you think of the vast metropolis.

Think dazzling streets pulsating with neon lights and a bustling urban atmosphere that invites you to explore everything it has to offer.

With so much to see and do, you’ll definitely need something to keep your energy levels up. Good thing there are lots of local dining spots that serve mouth-watering dishes for nearly every craving.

And since we believe the best travel experiences are made on a full stomach, we’ve rounded up the best restaurants in Shinjuku, Tokyo worth trying.

Yakiniku Gen-Chan

In the mood for unlimited charcoal-grilled meats and sides? Head over to Yakiniku Gen-Chan, which is your best bet no matter the time, as it’s open nearly 24 hours a day!

Located in the infamous Kabukichō district, it offers a selection of over 70 dishes ranging from A4-grade Japanese meat dishes to Korean staples like bibimbap.

They also have cheaper set options for those who prefer a lighter meal but still want to indulge in quality meats.

Either way, we recommend reserving in advance, especially if you’re coming in a bigger group.

Opening hours: 24/7

Address: Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukicho, 1 Chome−6−11 新宿栄ビル 1F (map)

Sugoi Niboshi Ramen Nagi – Golden Gai

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From the moment you enter Sugoi Niboshi Ramen Nagi, the smell of richly flavoured broth will greet you at the door.

Tucked away in an old wooden house along the Golden Gai alley, it’s certainly one of those Shinjuku restaurants that take you back in time.

Their bestsellers include the Super Golden Ramen and the Tokusei Sugoi Niboshi Ramen, both of which make for a filling meal to get you through the day.

And since it’s open 24/7, there’s no excuse to not have your well-deserved ramen fix here.

Opening hours: 24/7

Address: Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukicho, 1 Chome−1−10 2F (map)

New York Grill – Park Hyatt Tokyo

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For something on the fancier side, look no further than New York Grill in Park Hyatt.

It’s adjacent to the iconic New York Bar, where several scenes from the film Lost in Translation took place.

This one boasts fine-dining offerings for lunch and dinner - from olive-fed wagyu beef to lobster mac and cheese.

There’s also the seasonal dinner course for those who want an even more elevated gastronomic experience.

Either way, the stunning panorama of the cityscape makes every yen spent here worth it.

Opening hour: Open daily, 11.30am to 2.30pm, 5.30pm to 10pm

Address: Park Hyatt Tokyo, 52階, 3 Chome-7-1-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-1055, Japan (map)

Numazuko

Kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi restaurants) are a dime a dozen around Tokyo, but for one that gives a bang for your buck, then Numazuko is the way to go.

It’s right outside the east exit of Shinjuku Station, making it one of the most convenient Shinjuku food spots for mid-tour hunger pangs.

Don’t expect to find regular table seating here, as you’ll be dining right in front of chefs preparing plate after plate of fresh sushi.

It offers a laid-back ambience that invites you to take your time as you savour each delicious piece - whether it’s right from the conveyor belt or something you ordered off the menu.

Opening hours: Open daily, 11.30am to 10.30pm

Address: Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 3 Chome−34−16 池田プラザビル 1F (map)

Katsukura – Takashimaya Times Square

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On the 14th floor of Takashimaya Times Square lies the Shinjuku branch of Katsukara: hands down, one of the best tonkatsu restaurant concepts in Japan.

Fill up on hearty breaded pork cutlets in between shopping around the massive complex (hey, it’s no fun shopping on an empty stomach, after all).

You can choose between rosu (pork loin) and hire (pork fillet): the former is fattier and flavourful, while the latter is softer and leaner.

And while you’re at it, we recommend upgrading to the higher-quality pork variant that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Opening hours: 11am to 10pm

Address: Japan, 〒151-0051 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Sendagaya, 5 Chome−24−2, Times Square Building, 14F 高島屋 (map)

Marudori Ruisuke

A fixture in the Shinjuku food scene for over 50 years now, Marudori Ruisuke is a well-known izakaya that serves the most scrumptious Japanese chicken dishes on this side of Tokyo.

When you’re here, we recommend sitting at the centre counter surrounding the open kitchen for the full-on local experience.

Their yakitori selection is made with freshly delivered chicken and grilled with top-notch sauce and salt.

However, their bestseller is actually the Marudori no Motoage: made with Daisendori-brand chicken that’s deep-fried without any coating — making for a healthier and more flavourful option. 

With Japan now open for tourism once more, there’s no better time to try these amazing Shinjuku restaurants.

After all, no trip is complete without uncovering what your destination’s food scene has to offer.

Opening hours: Open daily, 5pm to 11.30pm

Address: Japan, 〒160-0023 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Nishishinjuku, 7 Chome−14−6 西新宿第二高橋ビル 1F (map)

Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima

Where innovation and tradition go hand in hand, Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima is one of the best places to eat in Shinjuku Tokyo.

This renowned restaurant takes pride in serving the best Owan which is the soup dish you must not miss while here.

It is a short walk away from Shinjuku station and can be a perfect break for you to have while exploring the city.

Remember that this place doesn't take reservations during lunch so you might have to queue up but we promise you, the wait is totally worth it.

Opening hours: Mon to Sat, 11.30am to 1.30pm, 5.30pm to 9pm. Closed on Sun

Address: Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 3 Chome−32−5 日原ビル B1 (map)

Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi Souhonten

Don't look any further if you are craving for best tempura in Shinjuku.

When it comes to tempura, it's all about the perfect batter and Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi Souhonten aces on that part.

You will find authentic and golden tempura here served with delicious dipping sauces and condiments.

Don't forget to sample their seasonal specialities or dig into the tempura set plate.

Opening hours: Open daily, 11am to 10pm

Address: 3 Chome-31-8 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan (map)

Sushi Zanmai

Close your eyes and pick Sushi Zanmai restaurant any day when you are thinking about having the best sushi in Shinjuku.

Sushi Zanmai has two outlets in Shinjuku and both of them serve over 160 sushi items such as rolls, sashimi, set sushi meals, donburi and so on.

As they pick the freshest ingredients daily from Toyosu Market, you will find the same freshness touching your palate while savouring sushi at Sushi Zanmai.

Opening hours: Mon to Thurs: 11am to 10pm, Fri to Sun: 11am to 11pm

Address: Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 3 Chome−18−4 セノビル 3Ｆ(map)

Torikizoku

When evenings arrive in Japan, it's time to visit an izakaya — a place to get along and have a drink with Japanese starters.

We would recommend Torikizoku for the best izakaya experience in Shinjuku.

While your beer gets refilled, order fried chicken bites or camembert croquettes.

Or try their scrumptious chicken breast with their delicious secret sauce.

Opening hours: Mon to Fri: 4pm to 4am, Sat & Sun: 3pm to 4am

Address: Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 4 Chome−1−13 9F (map)

Teppan Baby

Kabukicho, the trendy sub-district of Shinjuku is the place where you can find the best Teppanyaki and Teppan Baby makes the experience unique and quirky.

At this cool restaurant in Shinjuku, you will find mini babies hiding behind your chopsticks and okonomiyaki while the staff is always super friendly and energetic.

You might want to go back again for their bestselling Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, fluffy cabbage and crispy noodles.

Opening hours: Open daily, 5pm to 5am

Address: Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukicho, 1 Chome−17−4 POCKET ビル B1F (map)

Yasubee

In the cramped alleyways of Shinjuku where the paper lanterns brighten up the nostalgic restaurants of Omoide Yokoche, we would recommend you to sip sake at Yasubee.

While you are at it, ask for motsu-nikomi, the beef stew filled with collagen.

Pick anything from their long list of rice wine and izakaya items and be sure to amaze yourself with their extraordinary and tasty offerings.

Opening hours: Mon to Sat: 11am to 3am, Sun: 11am to 10pm

Address: 2 Chome-11-19 Yoyogi, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0053, Japan (map)

Jurin

From all the Keio Plaza restaurants, Jurin fixes your hunger at any time of the day.

With its all-day dining option, Jurin serves a variety of set meals, soups, desserts and even pasta.

The relaxing ambience and contemporary interiors will impress you even if you only opt to sit for an evening tea with fresh fruit desserts.

Whatever you choose to eat at Jurin, don't miss the signature beef curry, a speciality that will win your heart.

Opening hours: Open daily, 6pm to 6am

Address: Japan, 〒160-8330 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Nishishinjuku, 2 Chome−2−1 本館2階 (map)

Kozue

Craving for some authentic Japanese food while looking at Mt. Fuji?

Head to Kozue at Park Hyatt Hotel for a one-of-a-kind Japanese fine-dining experience.

Giving a 360-degree panorama of the city, Kozue is one of the best restaurants in Shinjuku with a view.

Spot the scenery around during the day or bask in the city lights at night as you binge on the home-style dishes served on the exquisite porcelain ware.

Opening hours: Sun to Tues: 11.30am to 2.30pm, 5.30pm to 9pm. Closed on Weds. Thurs: 5.30pm to 9pm. Fri & Sat: 11.30am to 2.30pm, 5pm to 9pm

Address: Shinjuku Park Tower, 40階, 3 Chome-7-1-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan (map)

Edomae SS

Want to try the best omakase in Shinjuku with no advance booking?

Edomae SS lets you decide on that spontaneously and serves amazing sushi.

Omakase is a meal where the chef decides what you eat and such restaurants are often booked months in advance.

But at Edomae SS, take your own sweet time to binge on the fatty tuna and saltwater eel whenever you want to.

Opening hours: Mon to Sun: 11.30am to 2.40pm, 5.30pm to 10.30pm. Closed on Weds

Address: Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 3 Chome−20−8 トップスハウスビル 1F (map)

Culinary experiences you must check out in Shinjuku

Sample Rare Wagyu Cuts

Level up your Wagyu tastings and try Ranichi or Shintama, some of the rare beef cuts at Nikuya no Daidokoro, a restaurant near Shinjuku station. The in-house butchers and chef bring out the Wagyu course for you to sample gourmet plates of beef tongue, beef ribs and beef rump.

Izakaya-hopping in Shinjuku

Explore the neon-lit Kabukicho in Shinjuku and tour around different izakaya to get the ultimate Japanese experience. Go for Sake, beer or any non-alcoholic drink to pair with the mouth-watering side dishes while enjoying the Shinjuku nightlife like never before. From modern joints to traditional outlets, browse through some of the best izakaya in the area.

Treat Yourself to the Kobe Beef

Head to Yakiniku Washino Shinjuku Flagship Store for the finest beef tastings such as the Kobe beef. Make yourself comfortable in their relaxed setting and enjoy the Washino course of branded Wagyu beef cooked with perfection. If you are in the mood to challenge your taste buds, you can also choose to sample the rare Japanese black Wagyu.

Try Your Hands at Some Japanese Home Cooking

Visit a cosy apartment in Shinjuku and meet Sato, a passionate chef and food photographer. As Sato greets you with a welcome drink, experience first-hand Japanese culture and cook flavourful home-style food with him. This personal cooking class will get you up close to the lifestyle, flavours and culinary scenes of Tokyo as you cook along and listen to the fun anecdotes of Shinjuku.

Taste Sake with an Expert

You cannot leave Shinjuku without sampling different Sake at Nishi Ogukubo, popularly known as the drunkard's haven of Shinjuku. Tag along with a certified sake sommelier and journey through the insightful stories about sake brewing techniques, its history, different flavours and temperature changes of sake. Meet fellow sake lovers while you sip sake with the local snacks and find out your favourite Sake brand.

Learn to Pair Wagyu Beef with Craft Sake

Done with sake tasting? Now, find out how to pair it with Wagyu. Take a guided session with a sake sommelier with expertise in pairing wagyu with sake who will share interesting tips about complementing the country's finest beef cuts with regional cocktails. Not only learn about sake serving techniques and the history of wagyu but also enjoy a full-course meal where you try eight different premium quality wagyu with Japanese craft sake.

Shinjuku's Culinary Charm

Whether you're a culinary enthusiast seeking authentic Japanese flavours or an adventurous eater looking to try exciting flavours, Shinjuku's best restaurants have got you covered. Next time you wonder where to eat in Shinjuku Tokyo, take your taste buds on a delightful journey through these food havens or experiences depicting Japan's rich culture and dining scene.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the approximate cost of dining at the best restaurants in Shinjuku, Tokyo?

Prices may vary but you can expect to spend anywhere from JPY 1500 to JPY 10000 or more per person depending on the restaurant and your food choice.

Is it necessary to make reservations at these restaurants?

Some places have limited seating, so it is advisable to check if the restaurants make reservations. Sometimes they only take walk-ins and you might have to queue up for a table.

What is the best time to visit these restaurants to avoid crowds?

For a quieter dining experience, visit these restaurants during non-peak hours like late lunch or early dinner.

What makes Shinjuku a dining hotspot in Tokyo?

Shinjuku is popular for its diverse culinary scene and has a wide range of restaurants to cater for every palate.

What are some must-try Japanese dishes in Shinjuku?

Shinjuku is a perfect place to try authentic Japanese dishes like sushi, tempura, ramen and yakitori.