Eating like a local in Japan can be a truly immersive and rewarding experience. Not only will you get to try authentic, locally sourced dishes and ingredients, but you’ll also can learn more about the culture and traditions of the country through its cuisine. Here are some tips on how to eat like a local in Japan:
Start by trying out the street food.
In Japan, street food, or yatai, is a big part of the local dining scene. You’ll find a variety of stalls and carts selling everything from takoyaki (octopus’ balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) to karaage (deep-fried chicken) and ramen. Street food is a cheap and convenient way to sample a range of local dishes and get a taste of the city’s culinary culture.
Visit a local market.
Markets are a great place to find fresh, seasonal ingredients and try local specialties. In Japan, you’ll find everything from fish and seafood to vegetables, fruit, and meats. You can also try samples of various foods and learn more about the ingredients and cooking techniques used in local dishes.
Eat at a family-run restaurant.
Family-run restaurants, or kissaten, are a staple of the Japanese dining scene. These small, cozy establishments are often run by a single family and specialize in a particular type of cuisine, such as tempura, tonkatsu (pork cutlets), or udon noodles. Eating at a family-run restaurant is a great way to get a more authentic and personalized dining experience.
Try dining at a sushi bar.
Sushi is a quintessential Japanese dish and eating at a sushi bar is a great way to eat like a local. Many sushi bars in Japan are small and intimate, with seating at the counter where you can watch the chef prepare your food. Sushi bars often serve a variety of local, seasonal fish and seafood, so it’s a great opportunity to try something new.
Don’t be afraid to try new things.
One of the best things about eating like a local in Japan is the opportunity to try new and unfamiliar foods. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Whether it’s natto (fermented soybeans), uni (sea urchin), or shirako (cod sperm sacs), trying new things is a key part of the dining experience in Japan.
Learn about local customs and etiquette.
In Japan, there are certain customs and etiquette surrounding dining that are important to respect. For example, it’s customary to say “itadakimasu” before starting a meal and “gochisousama” after finishing. It’s also important to use chopsticks correctly and not stick them upright in a bowl of rice (this is considered rude). By learning about local customs and etiquette, you’ll be able to fully appreciate and participate in the dining experience.
Eat at different times of the day.
In Japan, there are different types of restaurants and food options available depending on the time of day. For example, in the morning you can try a traditional Japanese breakfast at a ryokan (inn) or a bowl of soba (buckwheat) noodles at a local shop. In the afternoon, you can try a bento box or a bowl of ramen at a local shop. And in the evening, you can experience a multi-course kaiseki meal or visit an izakaya (Japanese pub) for small plates and drinks. By eating at different times of the day, you’ll be able to sample a range of local dishes and experiences
In conclusion, eating like a local in Japan is all about immersing yourself in the country’s food culture and trying new and authentic dishes. From street food and local markets to family-run restaurants and sushi bars, there are endless opportunities to sample the country’s diverse and delicious cuisine.
