Whether it be the original Matsuhisa restaurant in Los Angeles, the range of 50+ Nobu restaurants around the globe or even the growing portfolio of Nobu hotels/resorts, you’ve probably heard of famed Japanese chef, Nobu Matsuhisa.
Chef Nobu’s brand has grown tremendously since the opening of his first restaurant in 1987 – attracting celebrities and food fanatics alike, some of which have been recurring customers for decades. Chef Nobu has become an undeniable sushi and hospitality master, ultimately crafting a well-trusted brand due to its signature food and uncompromising service. Because of this, it can be said that many would trust Chef Nobu with culinary recommendations across the world. But given his split time between Tokyo and Los Angeles, these are special places he knows like the back of his hand.
So to offer a closer glimpse into some of his favorite eats, Chef Nobu has shared where to stop for excellent food when in Tokyo, Japan. Take a look below, and click here to save all of his recommendations in Google Maps for future reference.
For Tonkatsu: Tonkatsu Maisen
A classic choice within Tokyo, Tonkatsu Maisen has been on the top of local's and tourists' lists alike. What caught us off guard is Chef Nobu's support of the well-known, fairly popular and downright touristy Maisen – at the same time we're not surprised for its consistently excellent katsu. Reminder: Lunch tends to be their busiest times, so shoot for an early/late visit outside of rush hours.
Tonkatsu Maisen
4 Chome-8-5 Jingumae
Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
For Japanese BBQ: Tokori Yaesu
For Yakiniku, Chef Nobu recommended the Tokori restaurants, scattered across Tokyo city. The brand is known for its highly selective approach towards "black" beef cuts and the most attractive marbling you'll ever find for wagyu.
Tokori Yaesu
1 Chome−3−7 B1F Yaesu
Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0028
For Tempura: Kagurazaka Ozashiki Tempura Tenko
Tempura is a staple for Japanese food, and the master chef chooses Tempura Tenko for the light, crispy meal. This remote, cozy location is fairly under the radar, so best to go with a local who speaks the language in case you're a bit intimidated. There's also a sister restaurant – Tempura Arai – in case you can't get a table here.
Kagurazaka Ozashiki Tempura Tenko
3 Chome−１Kagurazaka
Shinjuku City, Tokyo, 162-0825
For Dumplings: Tohryu
Sometimes even the most decorated individuals in the culinary scene need some comfort food – for Nobu, gyoza does the trick. While the Azabu Juban haunt is known for Chinese cuisine in general, the chef noted Tohryu's dumplings specifically, so be sure to make it a priority order when you visit.
Tohryu
2 Chome-4-5 Azabujuban
Minato City, Tokyo 106-0045
For Japanese Grilled Eel: Unagi Obana
For eel, we were not surprised Chef Nobu chose Unagi Obana – a favorite amongst our Japanese editorial team. Come with cash, the only form of payment they accept, and time to spare as they don't accept reservations. But get ready to experience the best, Michelin-starred eel you'll ever have.
Unagi Obana
5 Chome-33-1 Minamisenju
Arakawa City, Tokyo 116-0003
For Soba: Sarashina Horii
Soba may not be your first choice for noodles in Tokyo, but Chef Nobu seems to place it in higher regard over ramen or udon. That being said, Sarashina Horii has been serving the buckwheat variety for over two centuries. Its influence has expanded as well all the way to New York, where it holds its second location.
Sarashina Horii
3 Chome-11-4 Motoazabu
Minato City, Tokyo 106-0046
For Chinese Food: Wakiya
Chinese food isn't necessarily difficult to find in Japan, but the right spot for the right occasion can often be tricky. Chef Nobu recommends Wakiya, a Michelin awarded, reservation required restaurant known for its Chinese delicacies like shark's fin, traditional noodle dishes, meat and veggie pairings and much more. A great place to celebrate a special day.
Wakiya
6 Chome-11-10 Akasaka
Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052
For Sushi: Sushizen
What list of locations from a Japanese celebrity chef would be complete without a solid sushi recommendation? Chef Nobu endorses Sushizen in Ginza for his raw fish cravings. Reservations – as well as a deposit to keep the table – is required, with courses ranging from ¥18,000 to 33,000 JPY.
Sushizen Ginzaten
7 Chome−8−10 Ginza
Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
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