Sedmikrasky

Named after the Czech 1960s cult film (known as Daisies in English), this cosy restaurant serves up pretty authentic Czech fare on a quiet street in Yoyogi-Uehara. The owner is a Japanese lady who took a liking to the Czech Republic and decided to bring a little bit of it to Tokyo. The interior is a definite throwback to central European establishments, with its yellowish walls and dark wooden beams, whereas the crockery and jars of pickles and sauerkraut will probably make many Češi feel as if they’ve just entered their grandmother’s home. It helps to come prepared with some knowledge of Czech cuisine, as the majority of the menu is in Czech-katakana – or just ask the owner for today’s recommendations. Try the classic vepřo-knedlo-zelo, a plate filled with just the right amount of roast pork, sauerkraut, bread dumplings (knedlíky) and gravy, all of which were surprisingly light on the stomach. Alternatively, opt for their chunky guláš (goulash), which is closer to a filling stew than its soupy Hungarian counterpart. Finish with a piece of jablečný závin (strudel) or koláč (fruit tart) and of course, don’t forget to order a glass of pivó (beer).