The Best Street Food in Shinjuku 2024

Shinjuku is one of Tokyo's most iconic entertainment districts. Lined with department stores and surrounded by office buildings on the station's west side, JR Shinjuku Station is famous for being the world's busiest station by passenger traffic, with countless people passing through daily.

As one of Tokyo's most vibrant areas, Shinjuku's high foot traffic has led to the development of a bustling entertainment district with an impressive array of dining options. From retro alleyways to futuristic izakayas, the area features diverse and unique dining establishments. This rich variety of dining options is a distinctive characteristic of Shinjuku's street food scene in 2024.

In this article, we'll explore the street food you can enjoy in this densely packed culinary paradise, along with the unique atmosphere each establishment offers.

Experience Street Food Vibes at "Ryu no Miyako Dining Street"!

"Ryu no Miyako Dining Street" is a food hall that opened in 2022. Boasting 1,000 seats spread across two underground floors and the ground floor, it's one of Shinjuku's largest food halls. The interior features brilliant neon lights, offering visitors a cyberpunk-inspired atmosphere. With 17 different establishments, you can enjoy everything from authentic meat dishes to seafood, all paired with your favorite drinks.

Basic Information:
- Address: 3-36-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Varies by store
- Closed: Never
- Phone: Varies by store
- Official Website: https://ryunomiyako.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shinjyuku_ryunomiyako/

Hinomoto

"Hinomoto" is the perfect spot for those wanting to taste local foods from across Japan. The restaurant's interior is decorated with traditional Japanese lanterns, creating an authentic atmosphere. The menu features regional specialties that even Japanese people might not have tried, such as Okinawan sea grapes (umibudo) and Hokuriku's white shrimp tempura.

You can experience flavors typically only available in their respective regions, making it feel like you're traveling across Japan in one meal. Even classic Japanese dishes like karaage (fried chicken) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) have regional variations that you can compare. If you find a favorite, consider visiting that region on your next adventure!

Basic Information:
- Address: 3-36-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 1F
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-6380-0556
- Official Website: https://ryunomiyako.com/

Nikusakaba Nikugu (Meat Bar Nikugu)

As part of Shinjuku's vibrant street food scene in 2024, Nikusakaba Nikugu offers authentic meat dishes. From steaks to meat sushi, their diverse menu satisfies virtually any meat craving you might have.

Their signature dish features skewered fresh beef offal, grilled to perfection. The smooth, umami-rich texture spreads throughout your mouth. Experience this premium quality dish that's only possible with the freshest meat.

Among their many meat offerings, I recommend the "Handmade Menchi Katsu" (deep-fried ground meat cutlet). One bite releases an explosion of meat juices, offering a juicy, meaty experience. It's a filling dish that'll satisfy your hunger.

Basic Information:
- Address: Tokyo-to Shinjuku-ku Shinjuku 3-chome 36-12 B1F
- Hours: Mon-Fri 15:00-5:00 (next day) / Sat, Sun & Holidays 12:00-5:00 (next day)
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-5919-5788
- Official Website: https://ryunomiyako.com/

Ate Sushi

When craving sushi or sashimi, head to Ate Sushi. The restaurant features striking pop art sushi illustrations and traditional Kabuki-inspired pine and crane drawings on its walls. Despite being in the heart of Shinjuku's street food district in 2024, you can enjoy sushi topped with fresh fish straight from the source. Their signature "Seafood Bukkake Sushi" offers a generous serving of fresh seafood and ikura (salmon roe). You can also try rare fish varieties like nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) that are hard to find even within Japan.

While Ate Sushi specializes in fish, being part of the Ryunomiyako dining complex means you can order from other restaurants' menus while seated. It's a convenient way to enjoy meat dishes without changing locations.

Basic Information:
- Address: Tokyo-to Shinjuku-ku Shinjuku 3-chome 36-12 B1F
- Hours: 17:00-5:00 (next day)
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-5919-5688
- Official Website: https://ryunomiyako.com/

6 Casual Izakaya and Restaurants in Shinjuku

Ucchan (Omoide Yokocho)

Located in "Omoide Yokocho" near JR Shinjuku Station's West Exit, Ucchan specializes in "Motsu Yaki" (grilled offal). Motsu refers to animal organ meat, which is leaner than regular meat and characterized by its mild taste and chewy texture. These qualities make it perfect for grilling and stewing, and it pairs excellently with alcohol.

While Ucchan offers various offal cuts, I recommend the "Hatsu" (heart). With minimal gaminess, it's ideal for those new to organ meats. Their "Nikomi" (stew) is a classic izakaya dish that goes great with drinks. Don't miss this chance to experience motsu dishes unique to Japan's street food culture.

Basic Information:
- Address: Tokyo-to Shinjuku-ku Nishi Shinjuku 1-2-7
- Hours: 16:00-23:00
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone: 03-5909-5890
- Official Website: https://kiwa-group.co.jp/uttyan_shinjuku/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motsuyaki_ucchan/

Taishuu Izakaya Monja Sakaba Dashiya (Kabukichō)

As part of Shinjuku's vibrant street food scene in 2024, "Taishuu Izakaya Monja Sakaba Dashiya" specializes in "monjayaki." Monjayaki is a local Tokyo street food where a flour-based batter mixed with water, vegetables, and meat is cooked on a hot iron griddle. While similar to okonomiyaki, it has a more liquid consistency and doesn't form a pancake-like shape. Instead, diners scrape it directly from the griddle while eating. Part of its charm is gathering around the griddle with friends, making it a perfect social dining experience. Enjoy the monjayaki with some drinks and great company!

At Dashiya, besides monjayaki, you can enjoy other reasonably priced iron griddle dishes like okonomiyaki and yakitori. For bigger appetites, they offer all-you-can-eat options, so you can eat to your heart's content.

<Basic Information>
- Address: 1-11-4 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 15:00-8:00 (next day)
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-6457-6650
- Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monjasakaba_mania/

Ichiran (3 locations around Shinjuku Station)

"Ichiran" is Japan's most famous ramen restaurant. This tonkotsu ramen specialist features unique individual dining booths separated by partitions, allowing customers to focus entirely on their ramen experience. A highlight of Shinjuku's street food culture in 2024, Ichiran's pork bone-based soup is odorless, flavorful, and creamy. The silky and chewy thin noodles are addictively delicious. The perfect harmony between the soup and noodles will surely make you a fan after just one bowl. I'm certainly one of their many devoted fans!

Shinjuku has three Ichiran locations. It's especially convenient that some locations are open 24 hours - perfect for finishing off drinking with ramen!

<Basic Information>
Shinjuku Central East Exit Branch
- Address: B1F, 3-34-11 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 9:00-6:00 (next day)
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 050-1808-2529
- Official Website: https://en.ichiran.com/index.php

Shinjuku Kabukicho Branch
- Address: 1-17-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 050-3733-3393
- Official Website: https://en.ichiran.com/index.php

West Shinjuku Branch
- Address: 7-10-18 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 10:00-22:30
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 050-3733-3219
- Official Website: https://en.ichiran.com/index.php

Tsurutontan Shinjuku Branch (Kabukicho)

"Tsurutontan" is an udon specialty restaurant known for its silky and chewy noodles. Adding to Shinjuku's diverse street food offerings in 2024, they serve various creative udon dishes including mentaiko (spicy fish eggs) udon and curry udon. Their "Mentaiko Cream Udon" is particularly popular and my personal recommendation. The combination of spicy mentaiko and mild cream sauce creates a perfect harmony that spreads gently in your mouth.

The Shinjuku branch has a sophisticated bar-like atmosphere. With an extensive drink menu including wine and many dishes that pair well with alcohol like sashimi, it's a perfect spot. After enjoying some drinks, finish your night with their stomach-friendly udon.

<Basic Information>
- Address: B1F, 2-26-3 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Mon-Sat 11:00-8:00 (next day) / Sun & Holidays 11:00-23:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-5287-2626
- Official Website: https://www.tsurutontan.co.jp/

Sushizanmai (Shinjuku Station East Exit)

Sushizanmai is a sushi restaurant where you can enjoy authentic nigiri sushi at casual, reasonable prices. The fresh sushi toppings start from just 107 yen. A distinctive feature is the generous size of each piece, offering satisfying portions. They take particular pride in their tuna, which is exceptionally fresh and full of umami. Beyond sushi, the menu is diverse with fried and grilled dishes, making it perfect for enjoying varied meals with family and friends.

For those overwhelmed by the extensive selection, their value set menus that include miso soup are recommended. You can choose from various sets featuring different combinations of toppings or sets specializing in different cuts of tuna.

Basic Information:
- Address: Tokyo-to Shinjuku-ku Shinjuku 3-18-4 3F
- Hours: Mon-Thu 11:00-22:00 / Fri-Sun & Holidays 11:00-23:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-5357-7737
- Official Website: https://www.kiyomura.co.jp/

Odenya Takeshi (Shinjuku 3-chome)

Odenya Takeshi is an izakaya specializing in delicious oden, a traditional Japanese hot pot dish. Oden consists of various ingredients such as daikon radish, potatoes, eggs, and processed fish products simmered in dashi broth. As a warming dish, it's especially popular during cold weather. At Odenya Takeshi, you can enjoy oden made with two types of broth: chicken-based and fish-based.

Oden pairs perfectly with warm sake or shochu. The restaurant also serves sashimi and fried dishes, making it ideal for those wanting to enjoy Japanese alcohol with traditional appetizers.

Basic Information:
- Address: Tokyo-to Shinjuku-ku Shinjuku 3-6-12
- Hours: Mon-Fri 16:00-23:00 / Sat-Sun 15:00-23:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-6384-1356
- Official Website: https://alwayssaisei.co.jp/oden/

Three Recommended Dining Areas for Bar Hopping in Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho

Omoide Yokocho is an alley of izakayas located at JR Shinjuku Station's West Exit. With history dating back to the 1940s post-war era, it's a spot where you can experience the warm hospitality of old Japan. The alley houses about 80 establishments, primarily izakayas.

The close proximity of establishments makes it perfect for casual bar hopping, as you can quickly move between unpretentious venues. One of Omoide Yokocho's distinctive features is its many long-established restaurants known for their exceptional cuisine.

Please enjoy sampling different establishments and create many wonderful memories.

Basic Information:
- Address: Tokyo-to Shinjuku-ku Nishi-Shinjuku 1-2
- Hours: Varies by establishment
- Closed: Varies by establishment
- Phone: Varies by establishment
- Official Website: https://shinjuku-omoide.com/

Shinjuku Golden Gai

Shinjuku Golden Gai is a renowned drinking district featuring 280 bars and izakayas, representing the essence of Shinjuku's nightlife. Dating back to the 1940s post-war era, this retro space offers one of Shinjuku's most authentic atmospheric experiences. With establishments packed closely together, it's perfect for bar hopping, and in 2024, it'll become an even more exciting destination as many venues now offer unique street food options to complement their drinks.

Each establishment primarily features counter seating, allowing for intimate interactions with both proprietors and fellow customers. The variety ranges from casual ramen shops to sophisticated bars, each reflecting the owner's unique personality. While exploring the deep culture of Shinjuku through bar hopping, you can also sample some of the area's famous street food offerings that have become increasingly popular in 2024!

<Basic Information>
- Address: 1-1-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Business Hours: Varies by establishment
- Closed Days: Varies by establishment
- Phone Number: Varies by establishment
- Official Website: http://goldengai.jp/

Experience Authentic Local Spots with a Guided Tour

For those wanting to experience drinking like Shinjuku's office workers and locals, a tour with a local guide is highly recommended. These tours take you to hidden izakayas known only to locals, making 2024 the perfect time to discover both traditional drinking spots and emerging street food trends in Shinjuku's vibrant nightlife scene.

The tour includes food and drinks at three different izakayas. All costs are covered in the tour price, making it a hassle-free experience. The second stop features all-you-can-drink options, making it perfect for alcohol enthusiasts. Between stops, you'll have chances to explore some of Shinjuku's popular street food stalls that have become local institutions.

At the end of the tour, you'll receive photos taken by your guide, making it perfect for memorializing your experience! After the tour, Shinjuku's night is still young - feel free to continue exploring the nightlife.

Click here for more details

- Meeting point: UNIQLO Shinjuku West Exit Store
- Tour Area: Shinjuku/Kabukicho
- Start Times: 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00

Kabukicho Red Lantern Street

"Kabukicho Red Lantern Street" is a dining district featuring seven establishments housed in renovated traditional Japanese buildings. While the exterior maintains a retro appearance with distinctive red lanterns, the renovated interior offers modern sophisticated spaces, making it one of the most exciting street food destinations in Shinjuku 2024.

The first floor houses five izakayas (Japanese pubs) perfect for bar hopping. You can enjoy popular appetizers like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and fresh seafood with your drinks. The quick-service style makes it tempting to visit all the establishments in one evening. The bars on the second floor feature photogenic spaces illuminated by lantern-style lighting. Despite the romantic atmosphere, these venues offer a fun experience where you can enjoy karaoke while drinking.

<Basic Information>
- Address: 1-3-7 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Business Hours: Varies by establishment
- Closed Days: Varies by establishment
- Phone Number: Varies by establishment
- Official Website: https://www.kabukicho-red-norengai.com/index.html
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shinjuku_kabukicho_norengai/

For Street Food Lovers: Recommended Takeshita Street in Neighboring Harajuku

For those interested in street food adventures, Takeshita Street in the neighboring district of Harajuku is highly recommended. Harajuku is a trendsetting area for young people, where you can enjoy the latest street food trends. The area offers many one-handed treats like crepes and bubble tea, making it perfect for casual food exploration. The photogenic and cute appearance of the food items adds to Harajuku's charm.

Harajuku is considered a street food mecca, attracting tourists from all over Japan seeking its unique culinary offerings. One characteristic of Harajuku's food scene is the long queues at popular establishments. Come and enjoy the photogenic food that can only be found in Harajuku while exploring the vibrant streets!