Top 6 Unagi Restaurants Tokyo

Unagi, or Japanese eel, is a delicacy that has been cherished in Japan for centuries, particularly during the summer months when it is believed to help combat heat fatigue. For those seeking the best unagi experiences in Tokyo, here are six top-rated restaurants that stand out for their quality, unique offerings, and rich culinary traditions.

1. Ishibashi (石ばし)

Ishibashi is internationally recognized for its exceptional unagi dishes, having been awarded a Michelin star. This restaurant boasts a pre-war nostalgia, with its use of Wajima lacquerware and a tare recipe that has remained unchanged since its foundation in 1910. Ishibashi sources its unagi from Kyushu and Yoshida, Shizuoka, ensuring a rich and authentic flavor.

• Operation Hours: Lunch: 12:00 – 14:30, Dinner: 18:00 – 21:00
• Regular Holiday: Sundays, Mondays
• Price Range: Lunch and Dinner: Approximately USD 164 – USD 215
• Address: 2-4-29, Suidou, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
• Nearest Station: Edogawabashi Station

2. Unagiku (Koshinzuka, Nishi-sugamo)

Unagiku is known for its consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere. Located in Nishi-sugamo, this restaurant is open daily and offers a straightforward yet satisfying unagi experience. The menu is focused on unagi dishes, ensuring that every bite is a testament to the chef's expertise.

• Operation Hours: 11:00 am – 8:45 pm
• Closed: None
• Average Price: Dinner: 2,500 JPY
• Address: 1F, Iwata Bldg., 3-1-2, Nishi Sugamo, Toshima-ku, Tokyo

3. Izuei Main Restaurant (Ueno)

Izuei is a historic restaurant that has maintained its secret sauce recipe for over 300 years. This Kanto-style unagi is cooked to perfection, offering a rich umami taste without any added sugar. The restaurant's centuries-old knowledge ensures a truly authentic experience.

• Operation Hours: Varies, but typically open for lunch and dinner
• Price Range: Moderate to high
• Address: Ueno, Tokyo
• Note: Known for its traditional and unchanged sauce recipe.

4. Asakusa Unagi Sansho (Tawaramachi, Asakusa)

Located in the heart of Asakusa, this restaurant offers a premium unagi experience with a focus on quality and presentation. The menu includes both lunch and dinner options, with prices reflecting the high standard of the dishes.

• Operation Hours: Lunch: 11:30 am – 2:00 pm, Dinner: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm (L.O. 7:30 pm)
• Closed: Thursday
• Average Price: Dinner: 5,000 JPY, Lunch: 4,000 JPY
• Address: 2-25-7, Nishi Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

5. Unagi Kappo Oedo (Nihonbashi)

With over 200 years of history, Unagi Kappo Oedo is renowned for its robust and flavorful unagi. The secret sauce, simmered all day, adds a depth to the dishes that is hard to find elsewhere. The restaurant's "ikada" special on Saturdays is a must-try for any unagi enthusiast.

• Operation Hours: Varies, but typically open for lunch and dinner
• Price Range: Moderate to high
• Address: Nihonbashi, Tokyo
• Note: Famous for its long-simmered secret sauce.

6. Tsukiyomi (Akasaka)

Tsukiyomi offers a unique dining experience with its Japanese-style bar atmosphere in the evenings. The restaurant is known for its high-quality unagi, available until 8:30 pm, and its kimagure bar that starts from 10:00 pm. This is a great spot for those looking for a blend of fine dining and nightlife.

• Operation Hours: Weekdays: Lunch 11:45 am – 2:00 pm, Dinner from 5:30 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm), Saturday: Dinner from 5:30 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
• Closed: Sunday, National Holidays
• Average Price: Dinner: 5,000 JPY, Lunch: 1,000 JPY
• Address: 6-4-17, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Each of these restaurants offers a distinct and memorable unagi experience, making them must-visit destinations for anyone looking to indulge in this Japanese delicacy in Tokyo.