Tokyo, a bustling metropolis, is a paradise for food lovers. However, finding halal food can be a challenge for Muslim travelers. Over the years, I’ve explored numerous halal dining options across the country. Here are my top 10 picks for halal restaurants in Japan, complete with detailed information, personal experiences, and menu recommendations.
1. Gyumon
Location: Shibuya, Tokyo Cuisine: Japanese BBQ (Yakiniku) Gyumon offers a cozy ambiance with private booths perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family. Their tender beef cuts, grilled to perfection, are a must-try. The staff is friendly and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. What to Order: I recommend the Wagyu beef platter, which lets you sample a variety of premium beef cuts. Popular Dishes: Wagyu beef, chicken skewers, and yakiniku sets.
2. Halal Wagyu Yakiniku PANGA
Location: Taito, Tokyo Cuisine: Japanese BBQ (Yakiniku) This restaurant is renowned for its high-quality halal Wagyu beef. The marbling of the meat is extraordinary, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The elegant decor and attentive service make it an ideal spot for special occasions. What to Order: Go for the premium Wagyu set to experience the best cuts of meat. Popular Dishes: Wagyu beef, beef tongue, and assorted grilled vegetables.
3. Sekai Cafe Asakusa
Location: Asakusa, Tokyo Cuisine: International Sekai Cafe offers a diverse menu catering to various dietary needs, including halal, vegan, and gluten-free options. The café has a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal. I highly recommend their halal beef burger. What to Order: Try the halal beef burger with a side of sweet potato fries. Popular Dishes: Halal beef burger, vegan curry, and gluten-free pancakes.
4. Sushiken
Location: Asakusa, Tokyo Cuisine: Sushi Sushiken offers an extensive halal sushi menu. The quality and freshness of the sushi are exceptional, making it a great place to enjoy this traditional Japanese dish. The minimalist decor adds to the authentic dining experience. What to Order: Opt for the chef’s special halal sushi set for a curated experience. Popular Dishes: Halal sushi set, sashimi, and miso soup.
5. The Manhattan Fish Market
Location: Shibuya, Tokyo Cuisine: Seafood This restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, all halal-certified. The lively atmosphere and delicious food make it a great spot for seafood lovers. Their signature fish and chips are crispy and flavorful, a true delight. What to Order: The signature fish and chips are a must-try, perfectly crispy and delicious. Popular Dishes: Fish and chips, seafood platter, and garlic herb mussels.
6. Naritaya Halal Ramen
Location: Asakusa, Tokyo Cuisine: Ramen Naritaya serves delicious halal ramen with rich, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles. The cozy, traditional setting adds to the charm of the place. Don’t miss their gyoza, which is equally delightful. What to Order: The spicy miso ramen is my top pick, along with a side of halal gyoza. Popular Dishes: Spicy miso ramen, shoyu ramen, and gyoza.
7. Umegen
Location: Asakusa, Tokyo Cuisine: Sweets Umegen in Asakusa offers halal Japanese sweets like Kintsuba. Although it’s no longer certified, all food is still halal. The Kintsuba, a traditional sweet made from sweet red bean paste and wrapped in thinly grilled flour paste, is moist and gently sweet. It’s a delightful treat to end the day. What to Order: You can try the sweet snack items.
8. Shinjuku Gyoen Ramen Ouka
Location: Shinjuku, Tokyo Cuisine: Ramen Located near the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Ramen Ouka serves a unique take on ramen, with halal-certified ingredients. The flavors are rich and complex, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. What to Order: Try the spicy miso ramen for a flavorful kick. Popular Dishes: Spicy miso ramen, shoyu ramen, and halal chicken karaage.
These halal restaurants in Tokyo offer a diverse range of Japanese and international cuisines, ensuring that Muslim travelers can enjoy the culinary delights of the city without any concerns. Each restaurant has been personally visited, and I can vouch for their quality and adherence to halal standards. Enjoy your gastronomic journey in Tokyo!
