Meet Tokyo's local dishes
Edomae sushi and monjayaki are both listed among Tokyo's regional specialities by Japan's tourism organization. Make them separate meals to appreciate their very different textures and settings.
Follow the griddle in Osaka
Okonomiyaki brings cabbage and batter together on a hot plate, with toppings varying by shop. Takoyaki turns octopus-studded batter into a much smaller, piping-hot street snack.
Add a skewer stop
Kushikatsu offers battered, fried skewers, with ingredients ranging from vegetables to meat and seafood. Osaka's Shinsekai district is closely associated with this local favourite.
Keep time to enjoy each meal
Plan fewer stops than you think you need. Check reservations, current opening times and ingredient details with each venue, and let a small specialist restaurant be part of the experience.