Top 10 Restaurants in Akasaka and Toranomon

Overview of the Akasaka and Toranomon Area

Akasaka and Toranomon are prominent business districts.

The Akasaka and Toranomon area boasts a rich history, stretching back to the Edo period when it was situated near Edo Castle (now the Imperial Palace) and was home to the residences of influential feudal lords. In the Meiji period, its significance increased even more due to its proximity to Nagatacho, the political center, and Kasumigaseki, where many government offices are located. This led to the establishment of numerous foreign embassies in the area, including the U.S. Embassy. Today, Akasaka and Toranomon have become a global business hub, drawing many international companies to set up their offices here. The area also features numerous facilities such as Akasaka Sacas and Toranomon Hills, which cater to the dining and lifestyle needs of the business community.

Characteristics of Dining in Akasaka and Toranomon

Dining in Akasaka and Toranomon offers several unique features. The area is famous for its historic restaurants and long-standing eateries that have traditionally attracted political figures. Many of these are traditional ryotei (Japanese-style restaurants) that typically don’t accept first-time visitors, though some do allow general reservations. Additionally, the area boasts numerous casual izakaya (Japanese-style tapas bars) popular with office workers from the nearby business district. Recent developments, including large commercial complexes like Akasaka Sacas and Toranomon Hills, have drawn a broader range of customers. These complexes feature venues catering to younger crowds and branches of renowned Japanese restaurants, providing a wide variety of dining options. Whether you're looking for traditional Japanese cuisine or the latest modern dishes, this area has something to offer.

1. Nagatacho Sushi Kanesaka (永田町 鮨かねさか) / Sushi

A branch of the Michelin two-starred Ginza Kanesaka, this restaurant features the esteemed owner-chef Toru Osumi, who trained at Kanesaka and played a key role in establishing several of its branches. Housed in a classic Japanese-style building, the restaurant exudes elegance. The menu is exclusively omakase—chef’s choice—though additional items can be ordered if there's room. Their specialty, "Abalone Risotto," combines vinegared rice with abalone and its liver for an extraordinary flavor experience. The sushi, with its perfectly seasoned rice and well-matched toppings, provides a genuine and truly satisfying sushi experience.

2. Akasaka Sushi Shino (赤坂 鮨しの) / Sushi

The restaurant, opened by owner-chef Koichi Shinohara—who trained at the acclaimed Sushi Rin in Kagurazaka—has been a hit since its debut in 2022. Its interior features a traditional Japanese ambiance, creating a serene setting for diners. The restaurant offers a single omakase course, presenting about 20 dishes made with seasonal ingredients, including both appetizers and sushi. They consistently provide around 10 types of sake, each thoughtfully chosen to complement the season and the meal. Additionally, there is a selection of wines, including champagne and various reds and whites.

3. Sushi Miura (鮨 みうら) / Sushi

This sushi restaurant is run by owner-chef Kenta Miura, who trained at the Michelin three-star restaurant Kikunoi. Known for its opulent omakase course, the restaurant merges the traditional Japanese cuisine of Kikunoi with exquisite sushi and is featured in the Michelin Guide. It places a strong emphasis on traditional Japanese dishes, such as soup and grilled items, showcasing the skills Chef Miura honed at a Michelin three-star establishment. The sushi menu reflects this expertise, offering not only classic varieties but also seasonal delicacies like bamboo shoots with fresh buds in spring and sweetfish smoked with pine leaves in summer, providing diners with an authentic taste of Japanese tradition.

4. Edomae Sushi Hanabusa (江戸前鮨 英) / Sushi

This Michelin-starred sushi restaurant is led by Chef Hideki Nakajima, who trained for over 20 years at Miyako Sushi, a renowned establishment with a history dating back over 200 years to the Edo period. In 2015, he branched out on his own. His restaurant, which honors traditional techniques while embracing innovation, quickly became a favorite among sushi enthusiasts. The sushi, made with rice seasoned simply with red vinegar and salt, is slightly larger than usual. Each bite offers a fluffy texture that melts in your mouth, providing a truly exquisite experience. Toward the end of the meal, a slightly thicker tuna roll is served, preserving the essence of the Edo period.

5. Sorahana (空花) / Japanese

The Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant is owned by Chef Kanako Wakimoto, who trained at Nihonryori Kanda, a renowned establishment that has held three Michelin stars for 15 consecutive years. After honing her skills there, she ventured out on her own, bringing the same exceptional techniques to her restaurant. The menu features a carefully curated 11-course meal, with each dish reflecting the chef’s unwavering dedication. Among the highlights is the "Hassun," a beautifully presented traditional Japanese platter that showcases a delightful assortment of flavors in every bite.

6. Okamoto (おかもと) / Japanese

This Japanese restaurant earned one Michelin star in 2023 and previously held two stars for 11 consecutive years, starting from the year after its opening. It is also ranked among the top 100 Japanese restaurants on a major gourmet review site in Japan. The owner, Hidetsugu Okamoto, became independent in 2012 after serving as the head chef at the two-star Kyoto restaurant Wakuden. The restaurant offers only an omakase course menu, featuring ingredients from the owner’s hometown of Okayama and a variety of Kyoto vegetables. The result is a culinary experience that is not only delicious but also a refreshing escape from the routines of daily life.

7. Koushikiryori Kouki (港式料理 鴻禧) / Chinese

The restaurant has earned a Michelin star and is listed among Japan's Top 100 Chinese restaurants on a leading gourmet review site. Chef Cham Chi Kwong, originally from Hong Kong and affectionately known as "Tommy," crafts an exclusive menu featuring only course meals. Guests can choose from three different courses, each offering 10 to 11 dishes. A standout feature is the “Deep-fried Chicken Teste Paste,” which appears in every course. The restaurant also offers wine pairings, including Shaoxing wine, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of beverages that complement their meals.

8. Akanezaka Onuma (茜坂大沼) / Japanese

This Japanese restaurant has maintained its Michelin one-star rating since 2022 and is also listed among the top 100 Japanese restaurants on major review sites in Japan. It operates on a reservation-only basis and serves only course meals, offering two different options. The restaurant focuses on originality while remaining true to traditional Japanese cuisine, using many ingredients from the owner-chef’s hometown of Yamagata Prefecture. It offers a selection of beverages, including Japanese sake and wines that pair well with Japanese dishes. Asking the owner for recommendations can further enhance your dining experience. Even the reasonably priced lunch is available by reservation only.

9. Sumibikappo SHIROSAKA (炭火割烹 白坂) / Japanese

This acclaimed Japanese restaurant has held a Michelin one-star rating since 2019. Chef Hideki Ii, who has also served as a private chef for a UN ambassador in New York, brings his expertise to the establishment. The restaurant offers a chef’s tasting menu featuring about nine inventive dishes inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine. A standout dish is the "Chilled Tuna and Sea Urchin" appetizer, enhanced with a touch of caviar. The highlight of the meal is the charcoal-grilled items, where premium ingredients are cooked over binchotan charcoal. The seafood and meat, perfectly cooked and infused with the distinct aroma of the charcoal, are exceptionally delicious.

10. Lyla (ライラ) / French

The restaurant has been named one of the Top 100 French restaurants on a major Japanese gourmet review site. Chef Takeshi Narikiyo, who trained at prestigious Parisian establishments like Le Taillevent, has since opened his own restaurant in Japan. The restaurant’s concept is "NO FAKE," emphasizing authenticity in everything from ingredients and wine to tableware, décor, and service. There are three different dinner courses to choose from, and dishes may vary within the same course to suit each guest’s preferences. Wine pairings are also available.