Joanna James
Japan is a culinary paradise known for its exquisite cuisine, and while dining in renowned restaurants is a must, street food also holds a special place in Japanese gastronomy. Exploring the vibrant street food scene is an excellent way to savour authentic flavours and get a taste of local life. Listed below are five must-try street foods in Japan, with a focus on the Shibuya neighbourhood, where you can find some of the best restaurants and street vendors.
Takoyaki, or octopus balls, is a beloved street food that originated in Osaka but has spread throughout Japan. These bite-sized wonders are made from a batter filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onions. The mixture is poured into a special spherical griddle, resulting in crispy, golden-brown orbs. Takoyaki is typically drizzled with a savoury takoyaki sauce, and mayonnaise, and sprinkled with bonito flakes. While in Shibuya, you can find takoyaki stalls in the bustling Takeshita Street, where you can savor this delicious treat.
Another iconic street food originating from Osaka is okonomiyaki, often referred to as "Japanese savoury pancakes." Okonomiyaki is a savoury batter mixed with shredded cabbage, and various ingredients like pork, shrimp, or even cheese, and cooked on a griddle. Once it's golden and crispy, it's topped with a sweet and savoury okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed flakes, and bonito flakes. In Shibuya, you can indulge in this delectable dish at some of the best restaurants specializing in okonomiyaki.
Yakitori is the quintessential Japanese street food for meat lovers. These skewers feature bite-sized pieces of chicken, often seasoned with salt or a savoury tare sauce and grilled to perfection. You can find yakitori vendors lining the streets in Shibuya, especially around the bustling Shibuya Center Street (Shibuya Center-gai). The aromatic smoke from the grills and the sizzling sounds will lead you to these mouthwatering treats.
Taiyaki is a popular Japanese street snack that takes the form of a fish-shaped pastry filled with various sweet fillings. The most traditional filling is sweet red bean paste, but you can also find custard, chocolate, and even savoury fillings like cheese and sweet potato. While not exactly a street food, you can enjoy freshly baked teriyaki at specialized shops in Shibuya, such as Taiyaki Wakaba, offering a delightful twist to your street food adventure.
Yaki imo, or roasted sweet potatoes, are a beloved snack that evokes a sense of nostalgia in many Japanese people. These sweet potatoes are slow-roasted in traditional wood-burning ovens, giving them a unique smoky flavour and a tender, sweet interior. Vendors often carry yaki imo trucks that emit a distinctive whistle to announce their arrival. Take some time to leave the comfort of your cosy room at Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel and stroll through the streets of Shibuya, keeping an ear out for this delightful sound, as you may come across a yaki imo vendor offering warm, comforting sweet potatoes!
Exploring the street food scene in Japan, especially in Shibuya, is a fantastic way to experience the country's diverse and delicious culinary offerings. From the savoury delights of takoyaki and okonomiyaki to the sweet treats of teriyaki and yaki imo, you'll find a world of flavours waiting for you in the bustling streets of this vibrant neighbourhood. Don't miss the chance to savour these iconic Japanese street foods and discover the best restaurants in Shibuya during your next visit to Japan.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
