While Tokyo can hardly be compared to more international hubs such as London or New York when it comes to the international presence within the city, Tokyo is home to several small international communities that have set up new lives and businesses in Japan—including many delicious and authentic restaurants. Discover a few of our favourites!

Exploring the World From Tokyo

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Little Ethiopia, Yotsugi

If you’ve never had the pleasure of trying Ethiopian food, now’s your chance! Little Ethiopia is probably one of the—or, perhaps, the—best Ethiopian restaurants in Japan. The restaurant attracts all types of customers, from locals and international travellers to the ambassador of Ethiopia, and it’s no wonder why considering the care that goes into making the food.

With famous Ethiopian dishes such as Injera and Doro Wot on the menu, Little Ethiopia is the perfect place to go for a rich and tasty meal. Plus, the large variety of vegetarian offerings makes this restaurant a perfect go-to for groups made up of vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

We recommend trying the Mahiberawi platter for a taste of each of Little Ethiopia’s various curries and the famous injera sour flatbread. However, you should bear in mind that the Mahiberawi is only available to groups of three people or more and requires advance reservation. Try some delicious Ethiopian coffee after your meal and experience the wonder of an Ethiopian coffee-serving ceremony! 

Location: 3-23-6 Higashi Yotsugi, Katsushika City, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 17:00-23:00 (Closed on Mondays)

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Mash Bros, Shinjuku

Located a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s West Exit, Mash Bros is a small British restaurant run by a team of dedicated food lovers. This restaurant specializes in homemade British pies and mash as well as several delicious British desserts. Try one of their traditional Chicken and Mushroom pies, or go for something a little more modern such as the Chili con Carne pie and mash for a taste of British cuisine with a twist.

After you’ve helped yourself to some pie and mash, if you’re wondering whether or not you have space for dessert, the answer is definitely yes. Treat yourself to some of their homemade apple pie—I promise you won’t regret it!

Saad, the owner of Mash Bros is super friendly and always looking for new ways to treat his customers to something new and delicious (we were lucky enough to try one of his pork pies, which was delicious).

Arguably the best place for British rolls and pies in Japan, Mash Bros is the perfect place to go for a bit of hearty British comfort food.

Location: 1-24-8 2F A1 Shinjuku Town Plaza, Hyakunincho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 14:00-21:00 (Closed on Mondays)

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Kebab Chef, Setagaya

Kebab Chef is a small Turkish restaurant located in the heart of Setagaya City, Tokyo. Just a short 5-minute walk from Shimo-Kitazawa station, Kebab Chef is home to excellent homemade Turkish food, including dishes from kebab and hummus to several harder-to-find items such as Ayran, Turkiye’s notorious yoghurt drink.

If you want a taste of everything, go for the mixed grill kebab set, which has chicken, beef and lamb on one plate and is absolutely delicious. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many vegan options outside of their numerous starter options just yet; however, if you are vegetarian, you can enjoy one of the tasty falafel sandwiches or wraps on offer.

All of their meat is halal, making it perfect for those looking for a delicious and very filling Halal meal near central Tokyo.

Location: 2-14-14 ハニー下北沢 2F, Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 11:00-23:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)

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Soul Food House, Azabujuban

Wishing you could visit the American South for a taste of that deep, hearty soul food you can only find in the South of the U.S.? Look no further. From Creole Jambalaya to Seafood Gumbo, Soul Food House really is the home of Tokyo’s soul food scene.

Although the menu covers a staggeringly large number of dishes, most popular amongst Soul Food House’s non-American customers are its fried chicken dishes—of those, in particular, the fried chicken waffles (visit on a Wednesday for 1,000 yen chicken and waffles)!

Compared to some of the other international restaurants, Soul Food Huse is a little pricy; however, considering the number of vegetarian and vegan options, the generous servings, and the taste, it’s well worth the price.

This restaurant should be on everyone’s must-try list for Tokyo, especially if you’ve never had the pleasure of trying American soul food before; however, if you do want a taste of this little corner of the American South, make sure to book in advance!

Location: 2-8-10 Patio 6F,  Azabujuban, Minato City, Tokyo
Opening Hours: Wed-Sat 17:00-21:00, Sun 11:00-15:00 (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)

Aladdin, Shibuya

Aladdin is the place to go if you’re looking for some tasty and authentic Iranian food and the go-to spot for many Iranian residents living in Tokyo and the surrounding areas. From Ghormeh Sabzi to Iranian-style mixed meat kebab, Aladdin offers a wide range of traditional Persian dishes and Lebanese wines.

If you’re stuck on what to try, go for the lunchtime set menu, which offers a choice of a main meal, including famous dishes like Koobideh Kebab and Joojeh Kebab, alongside a side of rice or naan, soup, and tea or coffee to finish it off. Make sure to try the (very tasty) naan while you’re there for a more authentic experience!

All Aladdin’s food is all Halal, which makes it a great choice for those looking for a Halal food option in central Tokyo!

Location: 5-14-14 第二大澤ビル 1F, Hiroo, Shibuya City, Tokyo 
Opening Hours: 11:00-15:00, 17:00-22:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)

Use Food to Explore Japan’s International Community

Tokyo, being one of the largest metropolises in the world, is home to a vibrant yet relatively unexplored world of international exchange and interaction.

Broaden your horizons and discover some of the lively international restaurants Tokyo has to offer!

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