The Ultimate Guide to Ginza Restaurants: Best Places to Eat in Tokyo's Luxury District
Ginza is a special place in Tokyo where I was born and raised. This district, with a history dating back to the Meiji era, is known as a treasure trove of gourmet cuisine that Japan can be proud of to the world. From high-end sushi restaurants to traditional kaiseki cuisine and cutting-edge French restaurants, establishments of all genres line the streets.
However, even for us locals, making reservations at high-end restaurants in Ginza is extremely difficult. Especially for famous sushi and Japanese cuisine restaurants, a wait of several months is common, and the hurdle is even higher for foreign visitors. Moreover, high-end restaurants in Ginza can be intimidating, and those unfamiliar with Japanese dining etiquette may find themselves in tense situations.
That's why I recommend a food tour guided by a local Japanese resident. The "Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza" allows you to enjoy authentic sushi and tempura at a Michelin-listed restaurant. On the other hand, the "Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza" offers A5 grade wagyu beef and about 20 types of sake from Nara. Both are available in English and include detailed instruction on Japanese dining etiquette. They're easy to join even for solo travelers and are popular for special occasions.
Ginza also harbors various other gourmet spots, such as long-established teppanyaki restaurants, hidden Italian eateries, and world-famous bars. In this article, I'll introduce restaurant information in Ginza that I've carefully selected from a local perspective. I'll provide detailed information on a range of options from high-end establishments to relatively affordable restaurants that you can choose based on your purpose and budget.
Table of Contents
・What Makes Ginza Restaurants Special?
・Representative Restaurant Genres in Ginza
・Frequently Asked Questions About Ginza Restaurants
・Access to Ginza and How to Make Reservations
What Makes Ginza Restaurants Special?
The greatest charm of Ginza restaurants lies in their overwhelming diversity and high quality. From my experience of dining in this area for over 20 years, I can say that Ginza, in particular, is where top-tier establishments of all genres, from Japanese cuisine to French, are concentrated in Tokyo.
Most notably, it's highly rated as one of Japan's premier gourmet areas. It boasts the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo, making it a destination for food lovers from around the world. While Ginza has an image of being home to many high-end restaurants, there are actually plenty of lunches available for around 5,000 yen, allowing even first-timers to easily experience the taste of Ginza.
The atmosphere of the district also makes dining more special. The harmony between the stately buildings dating back to the Meiji era and modern structures creates a refined air that excites the heart just by walking around. Moreover, many restaurants in Ginza are particular about creating a calm space characteristic of the area, providing an extraordinary experience beyond just the meal.
However, there are points to be aware of. Popular restaurants are often booked up for several months in advance, and it can be difficult for foreign visitors to make reservations directly. That's why I always recommend food tours offered by MagicalTrip to guests from overseas. With a local Japanese guide accompanying you, providing full support from dining etiquette to restaurant reservations, you can enjoy Ginza's cuisine with peace of mind.
Representative Restaurant Genres in Ginza
There's a reason why food lovers from all over the world gather in Ginza. It's because top-tier establishments of all genres are available. Below, I'll introduce establishments by genre that I've actually visited and found particularly impressive.
High-End Sushi (Sushi)
Sushi restaurants in Ginza are, so to speak, the culmination of Japan's sushi culture. There are many Michelin-starred famous establishments, where the skill and refinement of the chefs are concentrated. The characteristic is that you can enjoy Edomae sushi using fresh seafood while conversing with the chef across the counter.
The budget is indeed on the higher side, with dinner typically costing over 30,000 yen per person. However, many restaurants offer relatively reasonable courses during lunchtime, allowing even first-timers to easily experience high-end sushi. Nevertheless, reservations are essential, and it's not uncommon for popular restaurants to have a wait of several months. If you want to enjoy it for sure, consider using a tour.
Recommended Sushi Restaurant 1 in Ginza: Sukiyabashi Jiro
Source: Google Map
Sukiyabashi Jiro is one of the sushi restaurants in Ginza that I respect the most. As a world-famous high-end sushi restaurant, it has consistently earned three Michelin stars, and its reputation is extremely high.
Stepping into the restaurant, you're greeted by a space that's simple yet exudes dignity. At the counter, carefully prepared nigiri using carefully selected seasonal ingredients are served one by one. What's particularly noteworthy is the exquisite balance between the shari (rice) and the sushi toppings. The harmony between the warm rice and fresh toppings creates a blissful moment that can't be experienced elsewhere.
The budget is indeed on the higher side, ranging from 50,000 to 60,000 yen for lunch and 60,000 to 80,000 yen for dinner. However, I'm convinced that it's well worth the price.
<Store Information>
Address: Tsukamoto Sogyo Building B1, 4-2-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 0335353600
Hours: 11:30 AM–2 PM, 5:30–8:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1301/A130101/13002260/
Recommended Sushi Restaurant 2 in Ginza: Sushi Suzuki
Source: Google Map
Sushi Suzuki is a sushi restaurant I often use for business entertainment or special occasions. It has earned one Michelin star, and its quality is guaranteed. In a simple and calm interior, you can enjoy an omakase course using fresh ingredients.
What's particularly impressive is the pairing with sake. The sake selected to match the season and dishes further enhances the flavors of the sushi. The price range is relatively reasonable among high-end restaurants, with lunch costing 20,000 to 30,000 yen and dinner 60,000 to 80,000 yen.
<Store Information>
Address: Ginza Bijutsukan Building 5F, 6-5-6 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 0355376868
Hours (Tuesdays): 6–8 PM
Hours: 12–2 PM, 6–8 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1301/A130101/13184367/
Tour to Enjoy Ginza's Sushi Restaurants with Certainty: Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza
This tour by us at MagicalTrip is a wonderful experience where you can enjoy high-end sushi and tempura in Ginza at once. The cost-performance of $203.41 (about 30,000 yen) for 2.5 hours is also attractive. What's particularly noteworthy is that counter seats at popular restaurants that are difficult to reserve are guaranteed.
The sushi made by skilled chefs right in front of you and freshly fried tempura are truly blissful tastes. Using over 80 types of seafood throughout the year, you can enjoy the taste of each season. What I particularly like is that even those who are unsure about Japanese cuisine etiquette and manners can be carefully supported by an English-speaking guide.
The tour is conducted in small groups, and solo travelers are also very welcome. It's also popular among couples and friends, and I myself have guided foreign couples celebrating anniversaries many times. Between meals, we also guide you to shrines and hidden bars from a local guide's perspective while strolling through the streets of Ginza.
For more details: Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza
Steak & Teppanyaki
The steak and teppanyaki scene in Ginza is a collection of the essence of Japanese food culture. Watching skilled chefs cook the highest grade wagyu beef such as Kobe beef, Matsusaka beef, and Omi beef right in front of you is truly an art. As a local, I feel joy in conveying the excellence of wagyu to tourists from overseas.
The attraction is also the wide range of choices, from high-end restaurants to steakhouses that you can casually enter. Also, many restaurants have extensive wine and sake pairing menus, allowing you to enjoy quality meat with alcohol. Reservations are basically essential, and I recommend making reservations early, especially for popular restaurants.
Recommended Steak Restaurant 1 in Ginza: Ginza Ukai-Tei
Source: GoogleMap
Ginza Ukai-Tei is the teppanyaki restaurant I rely on most for business entertainment. The taste of the highest grade Japanese Black cattle "Ukai select beef" has captivated many overseas guests. The interior, where Japanese architectural beauty harmonizes beautifully with Western art pieces, creates an atmosphere like an art museum.
The chef's skill is breathtaking, and the cooking performance unfolding before your eyes is truly a spectacle. The dishes using carefully selected ingredients for each season stand out for their visual beauty as well. What's particularly impressive is that you can adjust the doneness to your preference through conversation with the chef. Even the sound and aroma of the meat cooking stimulate all five senses, creating a special experience.
<Store Information>
Address: 1F, Jiji Tsushin Building, 5 Chome-15-8 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays, Mondays
Phone: 0335445252
Hours: 12–4 PM, 5–9:30 PM
Website: https://www.ukai.co.jp/ginza/
Recommended Steak Restaurant 2 in Ginza: Akita Beef Teppanyaki Ginza Gomei
Source: GoogleMap
Akita Beef Teppanyaki Ginza Gomei is a famous restaurant that specializes in A4 and A5 grade Akita beef. What particularly impressed me was the umami of the meat brought out by slow cooking at low temperatures. The heavy interior inspired by old houses in Akita also enhances the dining atmosphere.
The omakase course that changes with the seasons always brings new discoveries no matter when you visit. The teppanyaki performance by skilled chefs is truly artistic. The attentive service and meticulous attention to detail make it ideal for special occasion meals and business entertainment.
<Store Information>
Address: B1, Maxi de Pia, 6 Chome-4-18 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Closed
Phone: 0335445252
Hours: 12–2 PM, 5–9:30 PM
Website: https://noble-creation.com/gomei/menu/index.html
Recommended Tour to Enjoy Wagyu in Ginza: Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza
This tour is very attractively priced at $177.98 (about 26,000 yen) for 3.5 hours. From my experience of guiding several times, the all-you-can-eat highest grade A5 rank wagyu and all-you-can-drink Nara sake are particularly popular.
The tour starts from the north exit of Shinbashi Station (near SL Square) and first heads to the Nara Prefecture antenna shop. Here, you can enjoy about 20 types of local sake from Nara, known as the "birthplace of sake," for 30 minutes all-you-can-drink. I'm pleased that other drinks are also available for those who don't like sake.
The second stop is a teppanyaki restaurant in Ginza where you can fully enjoy A5 grade wagyu. Side dishes, seasonal soup, garlic rice, and miso soup are also provided, and wine and beer are also available. My favorite is the combination of wagyu and garlic rice.
The tour concludes with dessert and one drink at a cafe or bar near Ginza/Yurakucho Station. This tour, which has been experienced by over 100 people and received high ratings, is free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and can be rescheduled. It's especially recommended for those who want to fully enjoy a night in Ginza with a local guide.
For more details: Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza
Kaiseki & Traditional Japanese Cuisine
Kaiseki and traditional Japanese cuisine in Ginza embody the essence of Japanese food culture. I'm particularly moved by the delicate dishes that express the changing of seasons. A diverse range of styles is available, from cha-kaiseki to Kyoto cuisine and kappo, each with its own unique charm.
There's a wide range of choices from long-established famous restaurants to up-and-coming restaurants that add modern arrangements. Particularly noteworthy is the attention to detail in tableware and presentation. From the selection of dishes to their arrangement, it's truly an artistic expression.
Recommended Kaiseki & Traditional Japanese Restaurant 1 in Ginza: Ginza Shinohara
Source: GoogleMap
Ginza Shinohara is a famous restaurant I often use for special occasion dinners. You can enjoy kaiseki cuisine using seasonal ingredients in a luxurious Japanese-style space. What's particularly impressive is the beautiful presentation of each dish. The series of dishes that are like works of art please both the eyes and the palate.
The special menus that change with the seasons are also attractive, and I look forward to tastes unique to each season, such as cherry bream in spring and matsutake mushrooms in autumn. The calm atmosphere of the restaurant is perfect for anniversaries and important business dinners. Reservations are essential, so I recommend planning early.
<Store Information>
Address: 2 Chome-8-17 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 0362630345
Hours (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays): 6–8 PM
Hours (Fridays, Mondays, Wednesdays): 5–11:30 PM
Hours: 12–3 PM, 5–11:30 PM
Website: https://omakase.in/ja/r/sn331262
Recommended Kaiseki & Traditional Japanese Restaurant 2 in Ginza: Ginza Hakobune Daiginjo Shizuku
Source: GoogleMap
Ginza Hakobune Daiginjo Shizuku is a Japanese restaurant I often use for business entertainment. Its luxurious interior and dishes using fresh local ingredients are popular among both business customers and tourists.
What's particularly noteworthy is the abundant selection of sake. You can enjoy pairing with the dishes, and I personally enjoy discovering new combinations with guests. It's also ideal as a venue for business entertainment and important dinners, and the attentive service of the staff is well-reputed.
<Store Information>
Address: 6F, Ginza 888, 8 Chome-8-8 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: None
Phone: 0362746920
Hours : 11:30 AM–3 PM. 5–10 PM
Website: https://hakobune-ceory.com/storeinfo/ginza_sizuku/
French & Italian Cuisine
Ginza is one of the most competitive areas for French and Italian cuisine in Tokyo. From my experience of eating in this area for over 20 years, I can say that there's a diverse range of establishments, from Michelin-starred famous restaurants to bistros that you can casually enter.
What's particularly impressive is the creative arrangements using Japanese ingredients. The series of dishes that beautifully harmonize Japanese ingredients with French culinary techniques are a charm unique to Ginza. Also, a characteristic is that many restaurants offer relatively reasonable prices during lunchtime.
Recommended French & Italian Restaurant 1 in Ginza: L'Osier
Source: GoogleMap
L'Osier has reigned as a representative French restaurant in Ginza since its establishment in 1973. What particularly impresses me is its space design. The interior, themed around "white," "gold," "transparency," "glass," and "light," features a 9-meter-high ceiling, creating an elegant and luxurious atmosphere.
The cuisine beautifully harmonizes French culinary tradition and innovation. The chef closely collaborates with local producers to use the best ingredients. I often hear from tourists I've guided that it was "the best meal of their life." The refined service by multilingual staff is also noteworthy.
<Store Information>
Address: 7 Chome-5-5 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays, Mondays
Phone: 0120156051
Hours : 11:30 AM–3 PM, 5:30–10 PM
Website: https://losier.shiseido.co.jp/
Recommended French & Italian Restaurant 2 in Ginza: Trattoria La Grotta
Source: GoogleMap
Trattoria La Grotta is a hidden gem Italian restaurant that I frequently visit with friends who love Italian cuisine. Located on the first basement floor, it features a distinctive interior designed to resemble a wine cellar or cave. You can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
The chef, who trained in Rome, serves exquisite dishes using his skills and experience. The menu that changes with the seasons fully brings out the flavors of carefully selected ingredients. What's particularly noteworthy is the rich selection of over 50 types of Italian wines always available. You can enjoy pairing with the dishes, and the sommelier's advice is always spot-on.
For birthdays and anniversaries, I recommend the anniversary course. I appreciate their thoughtfulness in accommodating surprise arrangements, and I've used it many times for meals with important people. The fact that they offer high-quality cuisine at reasonable prices is also a reason why they have many repeat customers.
<Store Information>
Address: B1F, Prince Building, 5 Chome-10-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 0362806290
Hours : 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 6–11 PM
Hours (Fridays): 6–11 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1301/A130101/13220469/
Izakaya & Bar
The izakayas and bars in Ginza are spaces that gather the essence of Japanese drinking culture. What I find particularly charming is that you can enjoy the marriage of traditional Japanese sake and shochu with diverse dishes. Recently, modern and stylish izakayas have also increased, expanding the range of choices.
Long-established yakitori shops are also persistently popular. Not just for meals, enjoying cocktails while viewing the night scenery of Ginza from a bar in a high-rise building is also an exceptional experience.
Recommended Izakaya & Bar 1 in Ginza: Bar High Five
Source: GoogleMap
Bar High Five, as a world-class bar representing Ginza, is a place where I've guided many overseas guests. The quality of the cocktails is outstanding, and the bartenders' skills and creativity have received high acclaim from critics worldwide.
The interior exudes a chic and relaxed atmosphere, with a comfortable space centered around counter seats. In an international atmosphere where many foreign customers visit, you can enjoy original cocktails while conversing with the bartenders. The food menu is also extensive, adding to the charm of being able to spend a leisurely time with light meals.
<Store Information>
Address: B1F, Efflore Ginza 5 Bldg, 5 Chome-4-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 0335715815
Hours : 5–11:30 PM
Website: https://www.barhighfive.com/
Recommended Izakaya & Bar 2 in Ginza: Ginza Godaigo
Source: GoogleMap
Ginza Godaigo is a specialized Kyoto-style oden shop that I often visit with local friends for gatherings. What's particularly noteworthy is the broth made without chemical seasonings using kelp and bonito, characterized by its light yet deep flavor.
They use the brand chicken "Ajiwai Chicken" from Shizuoka for their chicken dishes, which offers a rich taste despite being low in fat and calories. The yakitori, slowly grilled over bincho charcoal, emits a fragrant aroma that makes your chopsticks move involuntarily.
The interior has a calm atmosphere with a white wood design, and both counter seats and private rooms are available. It's popular not only for lunch and dinner but also for all-you-can-drink party courses. I've used it several times for business entertainment and welcome/farewell parties.
<Store Information>
Address: 1F, Corridor Street, 7 Chome-108-103 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: None
Phone: 0355370301
Hours : 5–11:30 PM
Hours (Sundays): 5–11 PM
Website: https://daiwa-j.com/brands/godaigo/ginza/
Frequently Asked Questions About Ginza Restaurants
I'll explain the questions frequently asked by foreign travelers, drawing from my experience.
Are Reservations Required for Ginza Restaurants?
The reservation situation in Ginza varies greatly depending on the restaurant's rank and time of day. High-end restaurants require reservations 1-3 months in advance, and for particularly popular restaurants, a six-month wait is not uncommon. When I guide guests from overseas, I always make reservations at least 2 months in advance.
On the other hand, many restaurants accept same-day reservations for lunchtime, and there are also many casual restaurants where you can enter without a reservation. However, for those who want to ensure they can enjoy their meal, I highly recommend using the tours I introduced at the beginning. Also, don't forget to check the cancellation policy when making a reservation.
Can I Use Credit Cards?
The credit card acceptance situation in Ginza's restaurants varies by establishment. Almost all high-end restaurants accept card payments, and JCB, VISA, and Mastercard are widely accepted. However, some places don't accept AMEX, so be careful.
From my experience, some casual or long-established restaurants may only accept cash, so I recommend checking the payment method in advance. Recently, more and more restaurants are also accepting electronic money and smartphone payments.
Is There a Dress Code?
Ginza is a particularly sophisticated area in Tokyo, and some consideration for attire is necessary. High-end restaurants require smart casual or above, and some establishments have specific dress codes.
When I advise guests, I ask them to avoid sandals, shorts, and tank tops. Business casual attire is acceptable in most restaurants. When booking a special restaurant, I recommend checking the specific dress code at the time of reservation.
Are There Smoking and Non-Smoking Sections?
Due to legal changes in 2020, restaurants in Ginza are generally non-smoking indoors. However, some establishments have designated smoking rooms. The possibility of smoking in private rooms varies by restaurant, so if you wish to smoke, please check the availability of smoking areas when making a reservation.
Access to Ginza and How to Make Reservations
Drawing from my over 20 years of experience frequenting Ginza, I'll explain access and reservations in detail.
Access to Ginza is very convenient. The nearest station is Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Hibiya Line, allowing smooth access from major areas in Tokyo. For example, it's about 15 minutes from Shinjuku, about 20 minutes from Shibuya, and even a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station.
Regarding reservations, for high-end restaurants, the most reliable method is through hotel concierges or tours. I often use this method when guiding guests from overseas. For general restaurants, online reservation sites like TableCheck and OpenTable are also available.
The food culture in Ginza is something special, where Japanese tradition and innovation harmonize beautifully. From my experience of dining in this area for over 20 years, I'd like to emphasize the following points.
For those considering dining at high-end restaurants, securing a reservation is the biggest challenge. Therefore, using MagicalTrip's "Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza" or "Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza" introduced in this article is the most reliable way to enjoy Ginza's gourmet cuisine. You can visit famous restaurants that are hard to book with an English-speaking guide.
On the other hand, for those who want to casually enjoy Ginza's cuisine, I recommend visiting during lunchtime. Many high-end restaurants offer lunch courses at more affordable prices than dinner.
Dining in Ginza should be more than just a meal; it should be a special experience. The high quality of ingredients, the chefs' skills, the spirit of hospitality, and the unique atmosphere of the area will surely create unforgettable memories.
