Many folks think of Tokyo as the most expensive city to do anything but that is soooo not true…Well mostly not true. While there are a lot of Michelin rated restaurants, what most people need to experience is … what happens when you cross a perfectionist work ethic aka the Japanese work ethic and diligent chefs.
Tokyo has food for all types and some of the global renditions are better than the originals.
One of the hidden jewels is KAFIR LIME. This little gem, is just off Kiddyland on the famous Omotesando street. The food is out-of-this-universe. Their ingredients are fresh and their attitude is the best. Never does one feel left out. Pretty much everyone is family once you are seated. The value for money factor is amazing.
thai basil chicken
Next up is a darling Gyoza blowout place called Gyoza Lou. They have just decided to keep it simple and have 2 renditions of “the dumpling”. A steamed version and a pan fried version. No one and I repeat no one walks away without at least imbibing 2 of each. The prices are so reasonable that one cant help but bless them. Bless Gyoza Lou !!
Gyoza The Great!!
Up next is a Japanese Masterpiece called Burger Mania. Run by a youngster who is passionate about patties and buns, this place has a die-hard fan following among all who appreciate brilliant succulence. The Mango burger and the basic burger will fill you up and NOT empty your wallet. Make friends with the owner and get ready to be pampered. He loves chit-chat from all over the world.
As we get to the serious end of this post, and its been an easy slog listing out just 5 jewels, I would like to state that Japan is Foodie Paradise. Its always a pleasure to discover some of the bestest professionals running the tiniest of eateries.
Hacienda Del Cielo: This new establishment took just a few months to turn up the heat. They are quite nearly the best Mexican, this side of the pond. Mexican food lovers swear by the flavors and the efficiency. The location is fab and while you enjoy that fresh Gauca-holy-moly you can gaze up at the sky and …well you can thank Taro for telling you about the place … and enjoy your Fajita…
While Daikanyama does have a lot of upmarket, seriously expensive places, Hacienda is not mucho-dinero at all.
The best Taro-Treat is most certainly a tiny canteen that has its origins from a Singaporean / Hainan-ese staple. Its the Hainan Jeefan Chicken Rice place in Juban and Ebisu. This baby is a shining star. They have taken something extremely simple and made it an art. The chicken is so well done and juicy that you would think it was synthesized in a lab. The placement, the texture and the taste are a perfect 10.
Every single dish is mathematically and visually Purrrfect.
Kampaiiii !
tarobites 