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A Pepper By Any Other Name Would Taste As Sweet
Someone asked me a question recently; one, that if you’ve lived in Japan long enough, have surely asked yourself: “Why do the Japanese call green bell peppers ‘piman’ and the red and yellow and orange ones ‘papurika’？”For me, answer the question was confusing on a few levels, seeing as how I, h…(381 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Komeda Coffee: the First Trend to Start in Nagoya
Komeda Coffee is a chain cafe that originated in Nagoya, and has since spread across the country. I often joke with my friends that Nagoya is the last place to be informed of the latest fads, but this time around, Nagoya became the trendsetter. Of the more than 400 stores nation-wide, in Aichi …(320 words)
Misa
I opened a craft beer bar in Tokyo
I recently opened a new craft beer bar in Tokyo and I thought an article re the process of this would be interesting. After the forced closing of my previous beer bar in Aoyama (the building was being demolished to make way for a redevelopment) I was in a situation where I had to relocate the b…(1288 words)
Adstev73
Food Delivery Systems of Japan
With the engaged city life that many may find while living here in Japan, city problems are to arise. One of these problems that may occur may well be food; how to get it, pre-cooked and prepared, organic, gluten-free, and so on. Although the concept of food delivery is nothing novel, in Tokyo, the…(446 words)
Alex
"Jibie" Cuisine in Okayama
A trend utilizing wild game, specifically wild boar meat, is sweeping Okayama Prefecture. Known as "jibie" （ジビエ）in Japanese, the word is derived from the French "gibier" and simply means "wild game".Although I am generally very adventurous when it comes to trying new food, I have never rea…(280 words)
Andrea Miyata
Ethiopian Food in Nakameguro
when you would like to try spicy ......try Queen Sheba at Nakameguro.This restaurant was the oldest Ethiopian restaurant in Tokyo.You can try traditional Ethiopian food such as, spicy meat and vegetable in the form of wat (also w'et or wot), a thick stew, served atop injera, a large sourdough f…(91 words)
yukorose
The Food of Kusatsu Onsen
One the best ways to experience a town is through its food. When I travel, I love finding the diners, pubs, restaurants and cafés the locals choose to frequent, because that’s where I know I’ll get to experience the most authentic cuisine. But there is an interesting factor to be considered when lo…(545 words)
Petra
5 Food Streets in Japan - The Paradise for Foodies !
1. Dontobori Food StreetAs the landmark of Osaka, Dontobori is not only the shooting location of many Japanese films and plays, but also the famous paradise for foodies in Japan, which is praised as “the No.1 food of Japan.”The most delicious gourmet here is Tokayoki, Okonomiyaki, sushi, frie…(482 words)
Alexlovetravel
Japan's Strange Love for Strange and Unusual Snacks
The Japanese are well-known for their love of outrageous, sometimes excessive, and even downright silly, creativity. This creativity can produce both extraordinary and peculiar results.Japanese snacks are no exception. Article upon article has been written about them. Instagram and Facebook are…(415 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Izakaya: An Insider's Perspective
It can be a little difficult to explain the concept of an “izakaya” in English. They are likened to pubs or bars, essentially being establishments focused on serving alcoholic drinks. However, that’s not all there is to an izakaya. As a former izakaya waitress, I'd like to debunk a few common misco…(591 words)
Sakura
There is a food called "COPPE-PAN-SANDO"
There is a food called "COPPE-PAN-SANDO=コッペパンサンド".It is similar to a hot dog, but the Japanese do not think it's the same.Hot dog came from the United States."COPPE-PAN-SANDO=コッペパンサンド" It is inspired from the hot dog.Food that is sandwiched between the hot dog bun has al…(78 words)
asteka
Catch a Yokai Watch Ghost at the Supermarket
Watch out for Jibanyan in Japan. Enter any Japanese supermarket and you will realize that Japanese food packaging has turned into a cute crazy art form populated by the most famous anime, manga, game, and Disney characters.The all-time favorites with Japanese kids like Anpanman, Doraemon, Micke…(213 words)
David
Two Thumbs Up for Thumbs Up Live House in Yokohama
Thumbs Up live house in the Sotetsu Movil Building near Yokohama Station (the same building that houses a 109 Cinema) is quite possibly the best live house in Yokohama. Thumbs Up provides energetic musical entertainment as well as some really good American-style food. The genres of music played the…(360 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Fast and Convenient Food in Japan
The "stand and eat" style tachigui soba restaurants are designed for the thousands of Japanese businessmen who do not even have time to sit and eat their meals. Everything is fast at a tachigui soba place. In my opinion, the speed of a meal at a tachigui soba restaurant dwarfs the "fastness" of a f…(344 words)
GenS
Food in Taito
If you are one of many food lovers around the world, you must know that Japanese food is amazing. In Japan, food is sacred. When preparing a dish, only the freshest, highest quality ingredients are used. These ingredients along with the painstaking and meticulous mode of preparation set Japanese cu…(637 words)
Taito-kun
Kimono Wine Bar and Grill in Japan
There is a small restaurant in Nogizaka called Kimono Wine Bar and Grill that I go to sometimes when I’m craving for some good food. I especially enjoy their steak and greek salad. One problem, though, is that it's a little difficult to find. But that's what makes it a nice hideaway spot! Here is a…(69 words)
GenS
Tourist Tip #4: The Underground World of Food and DEPACHIKA!
Japanese department stores are famous for many things: elevator girls, first-class customer service, and unparalleled gift wrapping. But venture underneath one (on the basement floor) and you'll discover something else they have to offer: the world of "depachika"."Depachika" is a portmanteau on…(296 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Win with a Tai (yaki)
Tai, or sea bream, is a fish often used in Japan to celebrate something. The reason is because the sound is part of the word, "medetai," that indicates a cause for celebration. The winners of sumo tournaments, for example, celebrate by carrying a large tai, presumably to be consumed at the feast …(348 words)
mikekato
Fascinating 4 Akasaka izakaya's of A-un group with reasonable prices, valued quality, and vitality
One recommendable ‘izakaya’ type of operator in Akasaka area is ‘A-un group,’ which is actually operating four ‘izakaya’s under the name of ‘A-un-tei,’ ‘A-un,’ ‘Gonkichi,’ and ‘Kyushu Sakaba,’ respectively in the order of less casualness, providing, though, more or less, the same menu almost for th…(326 words)
Techan
Ginza Ogura at Haneda Airport
Haneda’s international terminal has an impressive selection of good restaurants in a nicely designed area called the Edo Market Place, although they are all relatively expensive. Once you check in your luggage, you will have free time to wonder and have a meal before boarding the plane. You may…(233 words)
EmiOnishi
Kyara-ben or chara-ben Culture
It is a shortened form of character bento. As Autumn is season for sports festivals in Japan, it comes up in our conversations between moms. Moms decorate homemade food to look like cute characters in order to make their kids happy and their lunches more appealing.If you’re interested in seeing…(222 words)
EmiOnishi
Wired-In Dining
One of the most novel, convenient, and custom dining experiences I have come across in all of my travels can be found popping up in restaurants in and around Tokyo. These hybrid systems of food ordering and delivery are truly an entertaining spectacle while you eat. Technology and food combine to o…(412 words)
Alex
The Absolute Best Burritos in Japan: Cactus Burrito
Cactus Burrito offers California "San Diego-style" burritos like no one else in Japan. They’re located just a few minutes’ walk from Musashi-Shinjō Station on the JR Nanbu Line in Takatsu-ku, Kawasaki.Their shop is tiny, but their menu is impressive. In addition to the regular assortment of Mex…(269 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Mikasa Kaikan, quality libations & comestibles in the hart of Ginza
Quality and connivence in Ginza, Mikasa Kaikan has a lot to offer. Located half a block back from Harumi Dori and 3.5 blocks from the famous Ginza 4 - Chome intersection, it's close to Ginza's high energy central shopping area, easy to find and serene all at the same time.Meet up with friends a…(216 words)
Aron
Another Easy and Affordable Way to Beat Tsuyu (the Rainy Season)
Two years ago I wrote about one of my favourite summer dishes: "Hiyashi Chuka" - chilled Chinese noodles. It's a summer staple in Japan because it's tasty, light, and refreshing - a perfect meal to beat the season's sultry summer heat: http://www.deepjapan.org/a/3324As soon as June starts, you …(229 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Specialty Ramen Stores in Japan
First of all, its important to know that it is rare to have bad ramen. Any ramen in Japan should be tasty. So when you are looking for your favourite ramen, you should first think about what kind of taste you like. Do you like a shoyu (soy sauce) base? Or tonkotsu (soup made from pork)? Miso? Sea f…(186 words)
GenS
McD's In Japan
Charging your electronic devices using any "unofficial" plug will get you into trouble. Trust me, I'm writing from firsthand experience. I was on a 7 day bicycle trip down South to Fukuoka and needed electricity desperately. I was at a hotspring and tried sneaking some juice while I was soaking in …(125 words)
GenS
Soul Food in Tokyo! Fried Chicken on Waffles, here we COME!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIAu4XQZ15g&feature=youtu.be"Desperate Housewives" star Vanessa Williams joined the opening party for Soul Food Snacks in Ginza. Some delicious waffles and fried chicken, honey baked ham and more, we are excited to see how the Japanese consumer will welcome th…(124 words)
Kong
Beat the Japanese Heat with "Chilled Chinese"
Looking for a quick, light, satisfying lunch that will also refresh you during these muggy rainy season months? Do what the Japanese do, then: eat Chinese. Chilled Chinese, that is."Hiyashi chūka" (translation: "Chilled Chinese") is a Japanese dish consisting of chilled ramen noodles with vario…(189 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Champon - a MUST eat in Nagasaki
Each prefecture in Japan is famous for some type of food. In Nagasaki, the featured is Champon. Brought in from China, it is a fusion of Chinese noodles and Japanese ramen. This delicious dish, is filled with vegetables and seafood. The thick noodles add texture to Champon, as well.(55 words)
RieS
Authentic Italian Napoli Pizza in Yokohama
Finding a credible pizzeria in Japan can sometimes seem impossible, but if you’re in Yokohama, all you need to do is make your way to Bashamichi's Pizzeria La casa di Nonno.La casa di Nonno is the real deal. It's as authentic as you can get without having to make the trip overseas (the cook act…(347 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Japanese-style depachika food courts
Japan has the most elegant restaurants as well as vending machines and convenient stores selling snacks and beverages on seemingly every corner. Somewhere in the middle on the gourmet scale are the food courts of the big department stores. Usually they are located in the department store basement a…(314 words)
David
Taste of America presents - Escape to California! California Food & Culture
Our restaurant is having a terrific food & music event which is a great way to meet new people and enjoy a relaxing evening. Everyone welcome! https://www.facebook.com/events/717849554919293/Taste of America presents - Escape to California! California Food & Culture Night (2 great nights to j…(415 words)
Traci Pink Cow
Join the Tokyo Harvest Festival in Roppongi
We have traditional customs to thank for a successful harvest on the autumn. As harvest of each year becomes important stock for the country to survive, it is said the customs started about 1,500 year ago. November 23 is designated as a national holiday called “Labor Thanksgiving Day". Autumn is th…(295 words)
Eddie
Wine and Dine - Ninja Style!
I'm usually averse to theme-restaurants, especially the more obviously themed ones, but Ninja Kyoto Restaurant and Labyrinth in - where else - Kyoto has been put on my top-ten list of must visits while in the city.The venue is actually three different shops. There's Dining Theater Ninja, a "the…(475 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Kyoto - City of...Falafel?
Falafel Garden has been a staple hangout for Kyoto locals since 2004. I was first taken there (by a Kyoto local) two years ago, only to be - like everyone else who's been there - completely astounded by one of the best falafels I have ever eaten. The food at Falafel Garden is made with "organic…(280 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Start Your Deeper Sushi Education
Sushi. One of life’s little delicious pleasures. Say the word and images of towers of empty plates at kaiten (“conveyer belt”) sushi shops spring to mind. The food is so popular that the once only-in-Japan item can now be found around the world in nearly every supermarket’s take-away section.If…(346 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Make Friends with Great Food at AMI in Ishikawacho
Ami is a wonderful Japanese-Euro fusion bistro that's located just around the corner from Ishikawacho Station. It’s a tiny, comfortably cozy place run by well-known local chef, Yasu. Bossa nova jazz-infused music fills the atmosphere; the interior is left intentionally sparse, so as not to distract…(151 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
Molecular Gastronomy at Mandarin Oriental
For those who have never been to Japan before, when someone mentions the island nation, many preconceived perceptions may come to mind. Stories of a land that is technologically advanced and driven filled with striking trends and exotic fare are what often come to mind. This perception is also like…(278 words)
Alex
Vietnamese Dining in the Heart of Roppongi
Cyclo is a trendy, semi-casual Vietnamese restaurant located in Roppongi Green Hills. They have a lovely spacious interior with, comfortably dimly lit, with clean tables and interesting decor. The staff are courteous and treat customers well.Their menu has quite a lot to choose from, all the st…(262 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer