20 of the Best food in Kichijoji


2019.04.26

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

20 of the Best food in Kichijoji

The hip but homely Kichijoji neighbourhood in the west of Tokyo is no stranger to visitors, who flock to the esteemed Inokashira Park as soon as the sun starts to shine. Ready to welcome in both regulars and newcomers alike, Kichijoji’s food scene is all-encompassing with everything from take-out snacks to lively streets of izakaya and more upmarket restaurants.

  • 01

    Iseya

    The main branch of Iseya

    The main branch of Iseya

    The original Iseya opened in Kichijoji way back in 1928 and they quickly became a local favorite for drinks and skewers. Now with three locations that are all within walking distance in Kichijoji, you can choose the atmosphere you want, with time to switch scenery if you feel like it. The main branch offers a more traditional vibe, as it’s based at the original location, while the Koenten or “garden location” is a little more low-key.

    Iseya Koen branch

    Iseya Koen branch

    Ise Ya Head office
    rating

    3.5

    183 Reviews
    place
    Tokyo Musashino-shi Gotenyama 1-2-1
    phone
    0422471008
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    Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel

    1-6-3 Kichijoji Minami, Musashino Tokyo

    Agoda
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    株式会社 いせや総本店 公園店
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺南町1-15-8
    phone
    0422432806
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    no image
    いせや総本店 北口店
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺本町1-20-3 パーキングプラザB1F
    phone
    0422-23-8577
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  • 02

    Cafe Zenon and Zenon Sakaba

    Zenon Sakaba

    Zenon Sakaba

    If you’re looking for a stylish cafe with a little something extra, then Cafe Zenon should be on your list. Serving up classy cafe fare (complete with latte art), this cafe also boasts a variety of art and displays from manga series. Combining the playful nature of Japanese comics with the sophisticated atmosphere of a cafe, this is a trendy place to just be yourself.

    Cafe Zenon

    Cafe Zenon

    Zenon Sakaba offers up a very similar vibe. But instead of a cafe, it’s a new-age restaurant/bar that operates under the theme of new encounters and experiences. You’ll get tasty dishes ranging from grilled delights to juicy croquettes and the drink selection is extensive, with some glasses bearing manga characters to get you hyped for a great night. The cafe and the sakaba are a must for manga lovers but their quirky atmosphere will entertain all.

    Zenon Sakaba

    Zenon Sakaba

    CAFE ZENON (カフェ ゼノン)
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺南町2-11-3
    phone
    0422-29-0711
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    肉バル CAFE ZENON&ZENON SAKABA(カフェ ゼノン アンド ゼノン サカバ) 吉祥寺店
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺南町2-11-3
    phone
    0422272275
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  • 03

    Satou Kichijoji

    Satou Kichijoji

    Satou Kichijoji

    Head north out of Kichijoji Station and you’ll come across a labyrinth of Yokocho, bustling side streets brimming with eating establishments.
    People go crazy for Satou’s Original Menchi-Katsu, which are deep-fried, mouth-watering katsu (minced meat cutlets). It’s not unusual to see a line forming around the block to get a taste of these juicy patties of fried goodness, regardless of the day. One Original Menchi-Katsu will set you back 240 yen. But if you buy five or more, then you’ll get them for 220 yen apiece. Point being: you’re going to need more than one.
    For a more serious meat fix, take a seat upstairs for juicy steak served up with delicious spices and sides of salads and pickles.

    Satou Kichijoji

    Satou Kichijoji

    Kichijouji Satou
    rating

    4.0

    166 Reviews
    place
    Tokyo Musashino-shi Kichijoji Honcho 1-1-8
    phone
    0422223130
    opening-hour
    10:00-19:00 (Menchikatsu sal…
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  • 04

    Crepe House Circus

    Crepe House Circus

    Crepe House Circus

    The crepes from Circus are not only sizable, they’re also on the cheap side, starting from only 250 yen. That doesn’t mean you won’t have plenty of options to choose from, either. Expect a full menu with a couple of Crepe House Circus surprises of their own. If you’re having trouble deciding, then we recommend the Chocolate and Whipped Cream Crepe for 370 yen. It will definitely treat you right.

    Crepe House Circus

    Crepe House Circus

    クレーフハウス CIRCUS(サーカス)
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺本町1-12-13 センチュリーホーム吉祥寺ビル内
    phone
    0422214257
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  • 05

    Supakichi

    Supakichi

    Supakichi

    Tucked into the latticework of alleys in Harmonica Yokocho, this buzzing restaurant was getting so much business it actually had to build an upstairs waiting room to reduce the lines. Yes, the Italian dishes using fresh, house-made pasta are that good (and reasonably priced!) Here’s how to enjoy their Spaghetti with Meat Sauce (950 yen) like a pro:
    1. Thoroughly mix the meat sauce into the pasta, stirring in all directions at least 10 times
    2. Stir in grated parmesan cheese (available on the table)
    3. Mix in a few drops of tabasco to taste
    4. Enjoy while hot

    Supakichi

    Supakichi

    Spa Yoshi
    place
    Tokyo Musashino-shi Kichijoji Honcho 1-1-3
    phone
    0422222227
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  • 06

    COLONIAL GARDEN

    COLONIAL GARDEN

    COLONIAL GARDEN

    Set among the hanging gardens of the coppice KICHIJOJI shopping mall, COLONIAL GARDEN is a welcome oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. The airy interior offers an easy space to relax with their drinks and European-inspired dishes, with rattan chairs and cushy booths. But the terrace is another great option, with garden views and natural light that make for a refreshing experience.

    COLONIAL GARDEN

    COLONIAL GARDEN

    COLONIAL GARDEN 吉祥寺
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺本町1-11-5 コピス吉祥寺 A館3F 空中庭園内
    phone
    0422280707
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  • 07

    Moomin Stand

    Moomin Stand

    Moomin Stand

    Fans of Moomin won’t want to miss this little drink stand in the Coppice shopping mall. Serving up chilled treats reminiscent of bubble tea, each drink comes with a straw that’s been outfitted with its own Hattifattener character, meaning your Instagram followers will definitely freak out. Try the Nyoronyoro no tane Strawberry Yogurt drink (450 yen), which comes with sweet, “Hattifattener seeds” that add a peculiar texture to the sweet drink.

    Nyoronyoro no tane Strawberry Yogurt drink (450 yen)

    Nyoronyoro no tane Strawberry Yogurt drink (450 yen)

    ムーミンスタンドコピス吉祥寺店
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺本町1-11-5
    phone
    0422-23-2615
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  • 08

    The City Bakery

    The City Bakery

    The City Bakery

    Don’t let the name fool you. This isn’t just a bakery; there’s also a casual cafe where you can have a bite to eat along with your pastry. Originally a New York City franchise, this hip cafe made the move to Japan in 2013. So get ready for some authentic muffins and pastries when you walk into their Kichijoji location. It’s perfect for a late breakfast or an early evening snack.

    The City Bakery

    The City Bakery

    Kichijoji PARCO
    place
    Tokyo Musashino-shi Kichijoji Honmachi 1-5-1
    phone
    0422-21-8111
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  • 09

    Coffee Hall Kugutsusou

    Coffee Hall Kugutsusou

    Coffee Hall Kugutsusou

    This old-school cafe has been in business since 1979, with a cave-like interior (complete with arching stone walls) that give the entire space a warm, intimate atmosphere that’s hard to replicate. People don’t just come for the coffee, either. The curry, which has been stewed for an entire day, is an ever-popular menu item that will have you coming back again and again.

    Coffee Hall Kugutsusou

    Coffee Hall Kugutsusou

    Kugutukusa
    place
    Tokyo Musashinoshi Kichijoujihonchou Shimada building B1F 1-7-7 Kichijoji diamond town
    phone
    0422218473
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  • 10

    Piwang

    Piwang

    Piwang

    You’re in the mood for some curry. We can relate. So why not dive into Piwang. Huddled in the crisscrossing alleys of Harmonica Yokocho, this curry restaurant is a bit of a squeeze, as it doesn’t allow parties of more than two people. But the curry may just have you ditching your friends to snag a seat. The selection is limited but the flavor is robust and you can focus on simply savoring every last bite.

    Piwang

    Piwang

    piwang
    place
    Tokyo Musashino-shi Kichijoji Honmachi 1-1-4 Harmonica Yokocho
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  • 11

    Tsukemen Enji

    Tsukemen Enji

    Tsukemen Enji

    The main branch of Tsukemen Enji is going to have a queue, so go ahead and prepare yourself. But if you’re in the mood for tsukemen (ramen noodles that you dip in a separate broth), then Enji is where it’s at. Why not see for yourself what is so amazing about this restaurant in particular and its interior that offers an authentically Japanese ramen experience. Line up. Make friends. Eat well.

    Tsukemen Enji

    Tsukemen Enji

    Tsukemen entera
    rating

    4.0

    41 Reviews
    place
    Tokyo Musashinoshi Kichijoujiminamichou 1-1-1 Nanyang Building 1F
    phone
    0422445303
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    Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel

    1-6-3 Kichijoji Minami, Musashino Tokyo

    Agoda
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
  • 12

    Tsukada Suisan

    Tsukada Suisan

    Tsukada Suisan

    Don’t walk past this fried-foods shop. Tsukuda Suisan is known for its Kichijoji-fried patties, which are offered with a variety of ingredients, such as oysters, shrimp, and squid. Everything is made right there in the shop and with no preservatives, so you can go ahead and pick your favorites without worrying about your conscience. These fried goodies are perfect for walking and window-shopping.

    Tsukada Kamaboko
    rating

    4.0

    1 Reviews
    place
    Tokyo Musashino-shi Kichijoji Honcho 1-1-8
    phone
    0422224829
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  • 13

    chai break

    chai break

    chai break

    The relaxing atmosphere of this cafe offers a brief respite from the bustle of Kichijoji, with the main menu item being (you guessed it) chai, as well as a tea of the season. Set on the edge of Inokashira Park, this laid-back cafe also offers items for take-out, so you can grab a cup of your preferred beverage while strolling among the trees. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon.

    Chai Break
    rating

    4.0

    28 Reviews
    place
    Tokyo Musashinoshi Gotenyama 1-3-2
    phone
    0422799071
    opening-hour
    9:00-19:00[SaturdaySundayPub…
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    Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel

    1-6-3 Kichijoji Minami, Musashino Tokyo

    Agoda
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
    • Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel
  • 14

    Hara Donuts

    Hara Donuts

    Hara Donuts

    You can feel good about taking a bite out of one of these donuts. Well, better than usual that is. These delicious treats are a blast from the past, with each of the cake-style donuts handmade each day, without the use of any preservatives. Opt for one plain and simple or try something a little more adventurous. You can’t go wrong with these donuts and they’ll be gone before you know it.

    Hara Donuts

    Hara Donuts

    Hara Dounuts Kichijoji
    rating

    3.5

    18 Reviews
    place
    Tokyo Musashino-shi Kichijoji Honcho 4-13-15
    phone
    0422220821
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  • 15

    Toriyoshi

    Toriyoshi

    Toriyoshi

    Despite its prime location at the very entrance to Inokashira Park, it’s not until you get up close that you can get a glimpse through the circular gate that leads into Toriyoshi. Although promisingly traditional in appearance, adorned with a wooden interior and floor seating which spills out into the Japanese garden and terrace, the most common thing to be served at Toriyoshi is an unanticipated plate of chicken wings topped with a secret recipe homemade sauce. That’s not to say they don’t serve Japanese classics though with yakitori, tofu, and tempura also making an appearance on the menu.

    鳥良 吉祥寺4号店
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺南町1-21-1 井の頭パークサイドビルB1
    phone
    0422484600
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  • 16

    Pepacafe Forest

    Pepacafe Forest

    Pepacafe Forest

    The dragon head-shaped Inokashira Park has its fair share of attractions hidden around its leafy winding paths including a lake, a zoo, and the all time favourite Ghibli Museum. The Pepacafe Forest is one of just a handful of eateries that has the privilege of basing itself within the actual park grounds where it feeds its hungry and thirsty visitors delicious Thai curry and Singha beer. Open all afternoon and into the evening, even if you can’t stop in for a full lunch or dinner set the variety of Southeast Asian cuisine can also be enjoyed as a snack for those in need of an afternoon break on the terrace or inside to shelter from the sun.

    Inokashira Park

    Inokashira Park

    ペパカフェ・フォレスト
    place
    東京都三鷹市井の頭4-1-5 井の頭恩寵公園
    phone
    0422-42-7081
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    no image
  • 17

    Tecchan

    Tecchan

    Tecchan

    Wandering the tourist-filled area surrounding the park may make it hard to see the more artistic and underground side of Kichijoji so come evening make your way towards Harmonica Yokocho. This colourful covered street is stuffed untidily with a mishmash of izakaya and drinking holes including Tecchan, whose furniture and decor is made up of recycled bits and bobs. The bill of fare is a fusion of izakaya classics such as yakitori, as well as some more challenging dishes of which our favourite is the flavourful innards stew.

    Tecchan

    Tecchan

    てっちゃん
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺本町1-1-2
    phone
    0422-20-5950
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    no image
  • 18

    Whisky House Vision

    Whisky House Vision

    Whisky House Vision

    A cozy little whiskey bar with a gigantic collection, Whisky House Vision is made for connoisseurs. But don’t shy away if you’re not an expert; those simply curious can try any of the 600-plus types of whiskey and every glass, no matter which shelf you’re drinking from, is at most 1,000 yen. The intimate setting of this establishment lends itself well to conversation with the bartenders or patrons, so you’ll have someone to share your whiskey experience with.

    Whisky House Vision

    Whisky House Vision

    Vision Whisky bar 吉祥寺
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺本町1-11-8 耶馬ビルB1
    phone
    0422202023
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  • 19

    Bar & Kitchen Funky

    Bar & Kitchen Funky

    Bar & Kitchen Funky

    Featuring a comfortable, upscale vibe, Bar & Kitchen Funky is waiting for you at lunch, dinner or a little later on. European-inspired dishes and an assortment of alcoholic beverages are sure to please a variety of palates. It’s all too easy to let time slip by at Funky, especially if you’ve been acquainted with the house-made sangria.

    Bar & Kitchen Funky

    Bar & Kitchen Funky

    BAR&KITCHEN Funky
    place
    東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺本町1-7-3
    phone
    0422211464
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    no image
  • 20

    Yona Yona Beer Works

    Yona Yona Beer Works

    Yona Yona Beer Works

    For the ale enthusiasts visiting Kichijoji, Yona Yona is sure to tickle your fancy. Specialising in craft ales brewed up by the Japanese Yoho Brewing company, here you don’t choose your booze to match your food but your dishes to complement your beer. Choose spiced and herby sausages to bring out the taste in your dark brew or roast chicken alongside your pale ale. While Yona Yona is a chain, the wooden exterior and the stylish lighting and seating inside make the Kichijoji the best of the bunch.

    Yona Yona Beer Works

    Yona Yona Beer Works

    YONA YONA BEER WORKS Kichijoji
    place
    Kichijoji Bldg B1F 1-8-10 Kichijojihon-cho Musashino-shi Tokyo
    phone
    0422284740
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