One of the capital’s biggest and tastiest food festivals is back. The three-day Tokyo Tokyo Delicious Museum returns to Symbol Promenade Park in Ariake in what’s usually gorgeous May weather, and is once again set to showcase some of the city’s most in-demand restaurants. The more than 40 participants will be serving up classic Tokyo staples like Edomae sushi, tempura, ramen and soba noodles, while you can also look forward to international flavours courtesy of local eateries specialising in Italian, Spanish and Jamaican cuisines, among others. As for the sweet treats, expect elevated takes on beloved Japanese desserts like kakigori shaved ice.
Among the restaurants confirmed so far are the high-end ‘ramen kaiseki’ joint Genei.Wagan; Shojin Ryori Daigo, which specialises in traditional plant-based Buddhist cuisine; Hanare Sushi Tobi, a go-to for authentic Edomae sushi in central Tokyo; yakitori grill Nagoya Cochin Ichiou Ginza; and Toshi Yoroizuka, one of Japan’s best-known pâtisseries. At Tokyo Tokyo Delicious Museum many of them will be offering exclusive dishes usually reserved for multicourse meals, making the festival a great opportunity to explore otherwise hard-to-find flavours. More restaurants are set to be announced in the run-up to the festival, so keep an eye out for updates.
Eating is only part of the festival’s attraction, with the programme including stage performances by a wide variety of artists and nighttime reenactments of traditional Japanese matsuri festival entertainment, plus cultural experiences and crafts workshops enjoyable for all ages. One highlight is the sushi-making workshop, where a veteran chef will teach participants to craft nigiri sushi and hand rolls using fresh, authentic ingredients (reservations required). On the drinking front, you’ll be able to sample and purchase Tokyo-made sake, spirits and more.
The food line-up at Tokyo Tokyo Delicious Museum includes vegan, gluten-free and Muslim-friendly options. Meanwhile, parents will be pleased to know that the festival offers kid-friendly menus, nursing rooms and free priority seating for attendees with children in tow, making this one a satisfying spring day out for the entire family.