Shinjuku Food Tour Review: 15 Dishes & 3 Drinks at 4 Spots

Alright, so you’re thinking about treating yourself with the “Shinjuku Food Tour: 15 Dishes & 3 Drinks at 4 Eateries,” huh? That sounds like a bunch of eating, right? As someone who just tried it, allow me to let you know if it really gives bang for your buck. Basically, the intention is probably something like a deep dive into Shinjuku’s lively food scene, that’s kind of what the sales copy suggests. So, the query remains if it lives up to it. In short: expect a few delights and maybe, just maybe, one or two minor hiccups. Stick around for what really happened!

First Stop: Izakaya Delights and a Toast to Beginnings

So, the food escapade begins, that it does! The point of origin, right? It happens to be a classic izakaya, or like your friendly neighborhood Japanese pub, just a little more traditional. I would say, this very place promises a laid-back setting where you get to, more or less, sample a few local favorites while throwing back a drink. That first taste of Japan, right? Well, what came our way involved a trio of yakitori skewers, which were, as a matter of fact, savory bits of perfectly grilled chicken that hit just the right spot. And you also have crispy karaage, like Japanese fried chicken that definitely rivaled any Southern grandma’s recipe. Anyway, for a cheers, right? We got umeshu, that’s plum wine, sweet, and it just glided down that throat!

But, and here’s the ‘but,’ right? The izakaya, and you know how some can be, felt kind of crammed, that is what it was! That means, perhaps, not really a great place for very large groups or anybody wanting a really intimate convo. Now, while that chow was fairly delicious and authentically Japanese, it actually leaned a bit to the safe side, and it might be, maybe, not really adventurous enough for those trying something incredibly crazy and new. Is that what someone might expect? Sure.

Ramen Rumble: Slurping Our Way to Happiness

Next up? Ramen, right? Just like any self-respecting food pilgrimage through Tokyo absolutely requires! Here? We’re hitting a restaurant quite known for a rich tonkotsu broth. That, really, is the pork bone broth that’s just oh so creamy. In fact, this is supposed to just warm your belly and your soul. And it worked!

But alright, truth time! The ramen spot? Quite tiny, right? It seemed almost too small. Just a little elbow-to-elbow with your tour buddies. Though the ramen was definitely delightful, it was perhaps that kinda ‘safe’ tonkotsu, very standard, and nothing that blew any socks off if I’m being so honest. Also, and heads up on this! Those folks not too used to thicker broths might find this too rich, it can happen. Overall, and yet, a good, hearty portion. Not to complain, but it didn’t take too many risks.

Sweet Escape: Traditional Treats and a Tea Ceremony Intro

Then came a pause from all things savory! Off we went, that’s right, to try some wagashi, or the pretty Japanese sweets. Also, there was a glimpse of a tea ceremony, like something totally Insta-worthy and relaxing!

You had choices, like you do at buffets. From mochi with fillings (the red bean’s still great), to seasonal goodies. So Instagrammable. And yeah, the green tea? Quite on point. However, it was more of a sample, and the little talk about the ceremony was fairly brief, it could be. Like a snippet instead of something full on. And, for individuals thinking all Japanese sweets would be fairly sweet? Surprisingly, not. A very certain understated sweetness comes with the traditional stuff, so brace your sweet teeth! If you even use those.

The Grand Finale: Grilled Goodness and a Refreshing Conclusion

To the finish! This time we came across the wondrous stuff called okonomiyaki, sort of like a Japanese pancake that you, in some cases, get to make by yourself! That might mean you get to see yourself and your buddy cook it, too, depending. Plus? A last beverage, that could be beer or maybe something non-alcoholic, alright for ending big!

This bit? Was really fun! You get fairly interactive, and these pancakes taste great once everyone adds the right bits. Plus, it filled everybody quite nicely! Drawbacks? If it really is busy, you might wait to cook the meal yourself, that might happen. Still, right? Great finisher! Plus, you get to sit more easily as there are tables! The place does not feel quite tight.

Is This Food Tour a Yes or a No?

Alright, so the big question: is this Shinjuku food tour really worth it? To make it simple, right? It’s great to try samples of food, mainly Japanese favorites. Great, if you don’t like doing everything on your own.

Variety: You do try fifteen items, though servings are small, of course. You move to izakaya food, ramen, Japanese snacks, along with okonomiyaki, too, for the finale! That is awesome!
Tour Guides: Each is useful. Every single tour is in very spoken English, to tell all about stuff and the dishes. That helps quite a lot!
Great for First-Timers: Want to check Japan minus stress? Then yeah, just use this tour, especially!

You do have a few small things, alright. A few eateries get crowded. You might like some meals over others. If you don’t desire assistance from guides or do want some daring tastes? Consider this. Just to sum it all? Not bad for something around a shorter walk-around.

Here’s what you should consider