Must-Try Walk-In Restaurants in Japan: Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo Guide

Here's a list of must-try eateries in Japan that don't require reservations and generally have minimal wait times. I hope this guide helps those planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun!

🌟 Kyoto

1. Negiya Heikichi Takasegawa (葱や平吉 高瀬川店)

This restaurant specializes in dishes featuring green onions. Their beef sukiyaki is absolutely divine, and the grilled beef tongue is incredibly fresh. The ambiance is superb, with a riverside location next to the Kamo River that creates a truly relaxing experience.

📍 260-4 Ichinocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8018, Japan

2. Nikuya Suzu (肉や すず)

Their set menu offers 11 different cuts of beef, providing excellent value for money. While it's not exactly cheap, the quality of the meat is truly outstanding!

📍 Japan, 〒605-0993 Kyoto, 京都市東山区Higashiyama Ward, Hiyoshicho, 229-1 アクール 七条 1F

3. Micasadeco & Cafe Kyoto

Claiming to serve the best soufflé pancakes in Kyoto is no exaggeration! They're unbelievably fluffy with a texture that's simply heavenly.

📍 480 Umeyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8057, Japan

4. Kibune Kawadoko

En route to Kibune Shrine, you'll find numerous kawadoko (riverside) restaurants. The ones with scenic views tend to be pricier. I tried a 4000-yen set meal at one, and while the taste was average, dining over the cool river on a hot summer day was a unique experience.

📍 50 Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112, Japan

5. LOPIA Kyoto Yodobashi Store (ロピア 京都ヨドバシ店)

Pro tip: Head here just before closing time to snag discounted sashimi. I got a huge platter for just a little over 2000 yen – an absolute steal!

📍 Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokojicho, 590-2

🌟 Osaka

1. 洋食 QUATTRO(クアトロ)ルクア大阪店

Located on the 10th floor of LUCUA Osaka Shopping Mall, this place has a laid-back vibe. Their signature beef burger is quite unique and satisfying.

📍 Japan, 〒530-0001 Osaka, Kita Ward, Umeda, 3 Chome−1−3 ルクア大阪 10F

2. Isomaru Suisan (磯丸水産)

Don't miss their grilled crab and Arctic surf clams – both are incredibly fresh and delicious!

📍 Japan, 〒542-0071 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Dotonbori, 1 Chome−9−13 1･2F

3. Afternoon Tea

Home to what many consider the best mille-feuille in Japan! I tried the seasonal melon flavor, which was delightful. However, the drinks were underwhelming, so choose wisely. Be prepared for potentially long wait times.

📍 Japan, 〒530-0011 Osaka, Kita Ward, Ofukacho, 4−20 グランフロント大阪 ショップ＆レストラン 南館 3階

🌟 Tokyo

1. Mihousai Main Branch

If you're craving a break from Japanese cuisine, this Chinese restaurant is a gem. The clientele is mostly locals, but the flavors are remarkably similar to authentic Sichuan cuisine. Their mapo tofu is particularly tempting – a must-try for those missing Chinese flavors!

📍 1 Chome-4-13 Shibadaimon, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0012, Japan

2. Sushi Zanmai (新橋SL広場前店)

This popular sushi chain offers fresh ingredients and quick service. Their hand-pressed sea urchin sushi is surprisingly sweet and fresh.

📍 Japan, 〒105-0004 Tokyo, Minato City, Shinbashi, 2 Chome−9−4 新橋乾盃ビル 1階

3. YAKITORI Nonotori Nihonbashi

We stumbled upon this yakitori (grilled chicken) izakaya by chance. The beer selection is excellent! You can choose between sauce or salt for your chicken skewers, and don't forget to try the chicken skin – it's delicious!

📍 Japan, 〒101-0044 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kajicho, 1 Chome−9−19 GEMS新日本橋 6階

4. Tentora

Their tempura rice bowl was a revelation! Despite being sauce-covered, it's not greasy at all. I could have easily devoured another serving.

📍 Japan, 〒150-0002 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Shibuya, 2 Chome−24−12 スクランブルスクエア 13F

5. 丸一酒场

Hands down the best value izakaya (Japanese pub) in Tokyo! Open 24/7, they offer yakitori, various main dishes, and beef offal soup, alongside an extensive drink menu. We sampled four drinks, and I highly recommend the otoko umeshu whiskey!

📍 1 Chome-20-7 Asakusabashi, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0053, Japan

Bon appétit and enjoy your culinary adventures in Japan!