Ultimate Guide to Romantic Restaurants in Tokyo
By The Japan Switch Team | July 5th, 2024
Tokyo is one of the dining capitals of the world, and people from all over the world come to try a taste of its culinary arts. If you are looking for a romantic restaurant in Tokyo to celebrate a special anniversary, or you just want to take your partner out somewhere nice, then this article is for you!
Due to the wide selection of both Japanese and remastered western foods, you and your partner are sure to have an unforgettable night no matter what cuisine you are craving. Whether you are looking for a cost efficient, yet delicious dinner spot, or a restaurant with the most gorgeous views, we got you covered! Follow this guide to know some of the most renowned romantic restaurants in Tokyo, and their special customs to be aware of before you go!
This article is a part of our extensive series on Learning about Japan through Online Japanese Lessons at Japan Switch.
Romantic Restaurants in
Tokyo / Japan vs. America
Japan offers many unique dining options which will create unforgettable experiences, but there are some differences in the Japanese and American dining experiences that you should be aware of.
Portion Sizes
One of these differences being that many foreigners are caught off guard by the portion sizes. According to a researcher and author Naomi Moriyama, the daily average of calorie consumption in Japan is about 25% less than the calorie consumption in the United States. If you have ever been to a Japanese restaurant, this is apparent as the main dish is usually sold with a small bowl of rice, and maybe a couple of small side dishes.
Some restaurants may offer Oomori（大盛り), which basically means an extra large portion of rice, or Okawari (おかわり), which is a refill of the dish you want. However, at fine dining restaurants, these may be rare to find, so if you are looking for a dinner with large portions, you may be required to do extra research beforehand.
Table or Tatami?
Another major difference between Japanese and American dining experience is floor seating, or sitting on tatami mats. Although it is not at every restaurant, it is not uncommon so it is important to know about. Before sitting on these mats, you must take off your shoes and sit with your legs criss crossed. If you need to use the restroom, you should use the slippers provided by the restaurant, and only put your shoes back on if you are going outside or leaving. It is best to avoid wearing socks with holes in them, or socks that smell bad. Luckily, to combat the smell of feet, Japan offers a variety of goods such as Sara Sara Cream for Feet which can be found on Amazon
For cheaper alternatives, you can check out the local convenience stores or Daiso, which is a common store in Japan that can be compared to a dollar general store in the United States. In both of these places you can find spray deodorant for feet for cheap. These items may save you from embarrassment next time you go to a restaurant in Japan!
Looking to dive deeper into the rich and nuanced culture of Japan? Read our Ultimate Guide to Japanese Culture here!
Dating Etiquette
Finally, I want to talk about dating etiquette in Japan. After all, this seems especially pertinent if you're looking for romantic restaurants in Tokyo!
It is understandable to want to kiss your partner because the environment is enchanting, you think they look good, or just because it is a romantic night for you guys. However, public displays of affection are looked down upon by the general public. Just recently, hand holding and hugging in public have been becoming more popular, but kissing especially on the lips will definitely attract weird looks from the surrounding people.
You also should not be too loud, as Japanese people are very reserved, so you will stand out in a bad way if you and your partner are making a lot of noise. Although it is common in the United States, it is seen as obnoxious and rude, so be careful!
Want to learn more about unique Japanese dating culture? Read our Ultimate Guide to White Day in Japan here!
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Dress Code in Romantic Restaurants in Tokyo
If you look closely in Japan, you can see that the Japanese people have a very unique style of dressing compared to the United States when it comes to street clothes and business attire. Restaurant attire is no different as restaurants may require specific clothing such as smart casual, especially if you are dining in a fancy restaurant. In order to not have an embarrassing night at a romantic restaurant in Tokyo, it is smart to first check the website of the restaurant beforehand to see if there is an official dress code, where they would usually post whether it is formal, semi-formal, smart casual, etc. What constitutes these different categories of dress codes?
Formal:
| Men | Women | ||
| Suits | Dark-colored suits; commonly black, navy or dark gray | Suits/Dresses | Dark or neutral-colored suits; or conservative elegant dresses (knee length and below) |
| Dress shirts | Light colored (white, pale blue, light gray) | Blouses | White or light colored |
| Ties | Solid color or a very subtle pattern and should complement the other colors in your outfit | Shoes | Close toed shoes or heels in black or neutral colors |
| Shoes | Black or dark brown | Accessories | Anything that is not too flashy |
| Accessories | Anything that is not too flashy | ||
Semi-Formal:
|
Men |
Women |
||
|
Blazer/ Sports Jacket |
Blazer or sports jacket (colors can be lighter than formal attire) |
Dresses/Skirts |
Dresses and skirts (knee length or longer) |
|
Dress shirts |
Collared dress shirts (solid color or subtle pattern) |
Dress Pants |
If you wear dress pants it should be paired with a stylish top |
|
Pants |
Chino pants |
Blouses |
Elegant blouses that are not too flashy |
|
Ties |
Optional, but if worn more relaxed patterns can be worn |
Shoes |
closed toe shoes, flats, or heels (not too high) |
|
Shoes |
leather dress shoes or loafers |
Accessories |
Subtle jewelry and handbag |
|
Accessories |
Anything that is not too flashy |
||
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Smart Casual:
|
Men |
Women |
||
|
Tops/Shirts |
Button down shirts, polo shirts, cardigans, or high quality t shirts |
Tops |
Blouses, button down shirts, or fitted tops |
|
Pants |
Chino pants, khakis, or dress pants |
Skirts |
Skirts should be knee length or below |
|
Blazers/Sports Jacket |
Optional, all colors are acceptable |
Pants |
Dress pants or tailored trousers |
|
Shoes |
loafers, oxfords, or derby shoes |
Dresses |
Casual dresses (not too formal or revealing) |
|
Accessories |
Minimal accessories that do not stand out too much |
Shoes |
Medium to low heels, loafers, ankle boots |
|
Accessories/Other |
Light makeup, stylish handbag |
||
However, if there is nothing posted on the website, it is smart to still abide by the following:
- A long sleeve collared t shirt or collared jacket
- Pants (Jeans are not widely accepted)
- Close-toed shoes
- No hats or baseball caps inside
Besides the clothing aspect of the dress code, there are some more additional tips you should keep in mind when visiting Tokyo's more romantic restaurants.
For men, facial hair should be neatly trimmed or clean shaven. Finally, you also have to take the season and weather into account, as in the summer you should typically wear lighter fabrics, and heavier fabrics in the winter.
Customizing Your Meal
Some places offer Oomori (large portions) and Okawari (refills), but other than that, food customizations are difficult at both regular and romantic restaurants around Tokyo.
For people who follow the vegetarian or vegan diet, it might be a little bit hard for you to find a romantic restaurant in Tokyo that can fulfill your dietary needs. Although being vegetarian or vegan may be a challenge for travelers, you should not let it deter you from traveling.
Japanese cuisine is usually known for meals containing fish or soup stock that has meat or fish inside of it. Even if it may seem apparent that there is no fish or meat inside of the dish, there are often ingredients such as bonito flakes that make the dish unfriendly for vegans. Because vegetarianism and veganism is not as big as it is in the United States, it may be difficult to find a place that accommodates your needs and still offers delicious food. Rice and miso soup are staples of almost every Japanese restaurant, but finding a main dish is the difficult part. Veganism not so much, but vegetarianism has recently been becoming more and more popular in Japan, but even then going to a random restaurant and asking for vegetarian options may not work in your favor. It may be worth it for you to email restaurants ahead of time to see if they can accommodate your dietary needs, and this way you can save a lot of time.
Now with all of the formalities out of the way, we can finally recommend different types of restaurants for you!
Top 4 Romantic Restaurants in Tokyo with Scenic Dining
1. TsuruTonTan Udon Noodle Brasserie
TsuruTonTan Udon Noodle Brasserie offers delicious udon bowls with large portion sizes that you can eat while watching over the beautiful city of Tokyo. It is one of the most romantic restaurants in Tokyo for noodle lovers. There are multiple locations, but the main one is located on the tenth floor of Tokyu Plaza Ginza, and outside the windows you can see the Sukiyabashi Crossing which can be compared to the more famous Shibuya Crossing. The city lights and all of the neon advertising signs can also be seen making it the perfect place to sit and watch over Tokyo. They also offer sashimi and tempura if you are looking for something more than just udon noodles.
Reservations: Online / Phone
Budget: Around 2500 yen per person (about $15)
Open Hours: 11:00 am - 11:00 pm
Location: Ginza (three minute walk from Ginza Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 03-6264-5326
Website: https://www.tsurutontan.co.jp/shop/ginza/
2. Hoshinoya Tokyo
Hoshinoya Tokyo is located in the heart of Tokyo, and offers a very luxurious dining experience with the star of the show being one of Japan’s staple foods, fish. While eating, you can marvel at the stunning skyline view. Hoshinoya Tokyo specializes in a traditional multi course Japanese dinner that changes its ingredients with the seasons and region. This kind of dinner is known as Kaiseki. The modern and elegant vibes of the restaurant mixed with the traditional Japanese dining makes it a unique dining experience.
Reservations: Required; through Online / Phone
Budget: Around 25000 yen (about $150)
Open Hours: 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Otemachi (about a five minute walk from Otemachi Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81-50-3786-1144
Website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/en/hotels/hoshinoyatokyo/
3. Ishikawa
Nestled in the Kagurazaka district, Ishikawa is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined kaiseki cuisine in an intimate and scenic setting. The restaurant’s peaceful garden and traditional Japanese architecture create a serene dining environment. Ishikawa is celebrated for its exquisite dishes that showcase the best of seasonal ingredients such as crab and sweet shrimp in the winter, each prepared with precision and artistry. The ambiance, enhanced by the view of the garden, makes it an ideal place for a tranquil and memorable dining experience. The chef personally crafts each course, ensuring a unique and personalized meal.
Reservations: Required; through Online / Phone
Budget: Around 20000 yen (about $125)
Open Hours: 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Iidabashi (about a five minute walk from Iidabashi Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 050-3138-5225
Website: http://kagurazaka-ishikawa.co.jp/
4. Narisawa
Narisawa is renowned for its innovative take on Japanese cuisine, blending traditional Japanese techniques with sustainable and natural ingredients taken from Japan’s abundant forests. The restaurant is set in the upscale Aoyama district, offering a serene and elegant atmosphere with large windows that allow for views of the surrounding greenery. Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa’s philosophy of "Innovative Satoyama Cuisine" highlights the natural beauty and seasonal bounty of Japan. Each dish is meticulously crafted, providing a sensory journey through Japan’s landscapes. The dining experience is enhanced by the tranquil and nature-inspired setting.
Reservations: Not required but highly recommended; Online / Phone
Budget: Around 30,000 yen (about $190)
Open Hours: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm and 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: Aoyama-itchome (about a five minute walk from Aoyama-itchome Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 3-5785-0799
Website: https://www.narisawa-yoshihiro-en.com/
Top 3 Romantic Restaurants in Tokyo on a Budget
1. Tsukiji Sushidai Honkan
Tsukiji Sushidai Honkan offers an authentic sushi experience at an affordable price, making it a perfect romantic restaurant in Tokyo for a budget-friendly meal. This cozy sushi bar is renowned for its fresh fish sourced directly from the nearby Tsukiji market, providing a true taste of Tokyo. The intimate setting, with its counter seating and attentive chefs, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for couples.
Reservations: Not available so you should arrive early so you do not have to wait in a long queue
Budget: Around 5000 yen (about $30)
Open Hours: 5:00 am - 2:00 pm
Location: Tsukiji Market (about a five minute walk from Tsukiji Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 03-3541-3738
Website: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1313/A131301/13002314/
2. Kushiyaki Bistro Fukumimi (Shibuya)
Kushiyaki Bistro Fukumimi in Shibuya is a delightful izakaya that specializes in kushiyaki, or grilled skewers, offering a wide variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables. The restaurant has a charming and intimate ambiance, perfect for a casual yet romantic dinner. With its warm lighting and cozy seating, it provides a relaxed setting for couples to enjoy flavorful Japanese skewers paired with an extensive drink menu.
Reservations: Recommended but not necessary; through Online / Phone
Budget: Around 3000 yen (about $20)
Open Hours: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Location: Shibuya (about a ten minute walk from Shibuya Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 03-3461-2911
Website: https://shibuya-fukumimi.owst.jp/
3. Soba House Konjiki Hototogisu (Shinjuku)
Soba House Konjiki Hototogisu in Shinjuku offers a unique dining experience with its award-winning soba noodles. The restaurant is known for its innovative take on traditional soba, incorporating flavors such as truffle oil and clam broth to create a distinctive taste. The small, intimate setting makes it a great spot for a romantic meal
Reservations: No reservations, so it is best to get there early so you do not have to queue for a long time
Budget: Around 1500 yen (about $10)
Open Hours: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm and 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Shinjuku (about a five minute walk from Shinjuku Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 3-5315-4733
Website: https://sobahousekonjikihototogisu.com/
Top 3 Romantic Restaurants in Tokyo for Special Occasions
1. Sushi Saito (Roppongi)
Sushi Saito is an acclaimed sushi restaurant in Tokyo, offering a premium sushi experience ideal for special occasions like anniversaries. This romantic restaurant in Tokyo serves the finest sushi made from the freshest ingredients, with a focus on simplicity and traditional techniques. The intimate setting, with limited seating, ensures personalized service and an exclusive dining experience. This makes it perfect for a romantic celebration.
Reservations: Reservations are mandatory; through Online / Phone
Budget: Around 30,000 yen (about $190)
Open Hours: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Location: Roppongi (about a five minute walk from Roppongi Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 03-3589-4412
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1308/A130802/13015251/
2. Nihonryori RyuGin (Roppongi)
Nihonryori RyuGin is renowned for its modern take on Japanese cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients and innovative presentations, making it ideal for a romantic anniversary dinner, or even an ideal place to propose to your lover! The restaurant offers a sophisticated yet intimate ambiance, perfect for celebrating special moments. Chef Seiji Yamamoto's artistry in creating complex flavors and beautiful dishes enhances the dining experience
Reservations: Reservations are mandatory due to high demand; through Online / Phone
Budget: Around 25,000 - 35,000 yen (about $150 - $220)
Open Hours: 6:00 pm - 1:00 am
Location: Roppongi (about a five minute walk from Roppongi Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 3-6630-0007
Website: https://www.nihonryori-ryugin.com/en/
3. Sumibiyaki Shichirin (Monzen-Nakacho)
Sumibiyaki Shichirin is a charming restaurant that specializes in traditional Japanese charcoal-grilled dishes, known for its cozy and intimate setting, making it an excellent choice for romantic occasions like anniversaries. The restaurant focuses on high-quality meats and seafood grilled to perfection over binchotan charcoal, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience. The warm ambiance, accentuated by soft lighting and traditional decor, creates a comfortable and romantic atmosphere
Reservations: Reservations are recommended; through Online / Phone
Budget: Around 5,000 yen (about $30)
Open Hours: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Location: Monzen Nakacho (about a seven minute walk from Monzen Nakacho Station)
English Menu: Available (along with English-speaking staff)
Phone Number: +81 03-3820-9730
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1313/A131303/13017982/table/
Romantic Restaurants in Tokyo: Final Thoughts
With its long and rich culinary history, you are sure to find a romantic restaurant in Tokyo that is suitable for your occasion. The unique mixture of traditional and modern takes on food, and the beautiful ambiance of the restaurants are sure to make your romantic night memorable. However, you have to make sure to do the correct research before choosing the perfect restaurant as some may not have English menus, or some may not be able to provide vegetarian or vegan options. Also, be sure to follow the Japanese restaurant etiquette by following the rules above such as following the dress code and not being too loud in public. Other than that, you are now ready to find the restaurant you and your partner dreamed about when coming to Japan. If you are planning to visit other cities as well such as Okinawa, or just want to try out new unique foods in Japan, you can read our other blogs here:
Whichever you choose, enjoy your holiday in Japan!
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