52. The FOOD guide : Dessert

ABOUT THIS FOOD GUIDE

Generally, it's quite rare to be disappointed by food in Japan, so feel free to trust your instincts. There are a few places I'll advised against like Pontocho in Kyoto or Shinjuku Omoide Yokochô , but those are exceptions.

II'll share here a map and tips focused on food, highlighting my favorite spots, recommandations and must-try specialities across Japan.

The map is divided by the specialities (sushi, ramen) and by differents icons. . Each link to a restaurant on this online version and pdf is clickable, allowing you direct access to the restaurant on Google Maps. This feature enables you to easily navigate to these locations, view photos, and read reviews to enhance your dining experience.

Additionally, I will update the map from time to time to add new places and refresh existing recommendations.

Useful apps :

Tabelog : Japan's No. 1* Restaurant Listing and Reservation Site.

Happycow : Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Japan

Halal navi : helps you discover Halal restaurants, Mosques and many more.

Have any allergy ? Use this website : https://foodallergycardjapan.com/

Parfaits & Ice cream

Parfaits in Japan are a delightful and visually appealing dessert that has evolved considerably from its Western origins. In Japan, parfaits are not just a dessert but an elaborate, layered treat that combines a variety of flavors and textures, often tailored to showcase seasonal ingredients and regional specialties.

Tabelog ranking

Wagashi : Dorayaki, Daifuku, Taiyaki, Dango

Wagashi are traditional Japanese confections that are often served with tea, especially during a formal tea ceremony. Among the variety of wagashi, mochi, dorayaki, daifuku, and taiyaki are particularly popular, each with unique characteristics and flavors :

• Dorayaki consists of two small pancake-like patties,

• Daifuku is a type of mochi stuffed with a sweet filling

• Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake, traditionally filled with red bean paste.

• Dango are sweet dumplings made from mochiko shaped into balls, and often served on skewers.

Dorayaki Tabelog Ranking

Daifuku Tabelog Ranking

Taiyaki Tabelog Ranking

Dango Tabelog Ranking

Fluffy Pancake

Fluffy Japanese pancakes, often referred to as soufflé pancakes, have gained international fame for their incredibly airy and light texture, resembling a soufflé more than a traditional pancake. These pancakes are much thicker and softer than typical American-style pancakes and have a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Tabelog ranking

Japanese crêpes

Japanese crepes are a popular street food in Japan, particularly known for their presence in trendy neighborhoods like Harajuku in Tokyo. These crepes are a bit different from the traditional French style; they are thinner and often rolled into a cone shape, making them easy to eat on the go.

Tabelog ranking

Kakigori

Kakigori is a traditional Japanese shaved ice dessert known for its light, fluffy texture that's almost snow-like. This refreshing treat is especially popular during the hot summer months in Japan and has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the Heian period when it was a luxury item for the noble class.

Tabelog ranking

Matcha

Matcha, a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, is a cornerstone of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and has gained international popularity for its distinctive flavor and numerous health benefits. In its traditional form, matcha is whisked with hot water in a bowl until frothy using a bamboo whisk called a "chasen."

Tabelog ranking

Melon Pan

Melon pan is a popular Japanese sweet bread that is beloved for its unique appearance and delightful texture. Despite its name, melon pan typically does not contain melon flavor; rather, the name comes from its appearance, which resembles the pattern on the skin of a melon.

Purin

Purin, often referred to as Japanese custard pudding, is a beloved dessert in Japan, similar to what is known in English as crème caramel or flan. This sweet treat is cherished for its silky texture and caramel flavor, making it a favorite in both homes and restaurants across the country.

TABELOG RANKING