Introducing eel dishes, sushi, and bakeries in Shinjuku. There are not many restaurants in Shinjuku that fall into this category. If you are not only visiting Shinjuku, we recommend visiting sushi and eel restaurants in other areas.
Please refer to the links below for a brief description and location of each singdang shown on the map.
Complete Guide for Restaurants in Shinjuku, Tokyo
1. Sushi Zanmai Shinjuku Higashiguchi
Address: 3F Senovil, 3 Chome-18-4 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Menu: Sushi
Google Rating: 4.1 (1,786)
Sushijiromai is a budget-friendly sushi chain that offers quality on par with the popular Midori Sushi.
Their sushi is fresh and reasonably priced for the quality. It’s advisable to skip the set menu and order individual items for better value.
For miso soup enthusiasts, don’t miss the standout option a few pages beyond the regular miso soup—featuring seaweed, clams, and seafood. The clam variation is particularly impressive.
2. Shinjuku Unatetsu
Address: 1 Chome-11-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Menu: Eel
Google Rating: 4.1 (1,606)
An upscale eel specialty restaurant located in Shinjuku. This establishment boasts a variety of eel dishes, including their signature eel rice bowls.
While renowned among locals, it might not be the first choice for tourists.
The anticipation for this Shinjuku gem was well-founded. The experience lived up to expectations. By the official opening time at 11:30 am, there were around 10 groups waiting. Since the food preparation time can be quite substantial, arriving slightly earlier and placing your order can be beneficial to your schedule.
The ground floor has bar-style seating, limited space, low ceilings, and the distinct aroma of grilling eel fills the air. Locals seemed to prefer those spots. To avoid the grill scent, we opted for the quieter second floor. It provided the unique experience of sitting on the floor without shoes.
We ordered the special grade unadon (eel rice bowl) and the regular grade unadon.
The portions were average, and the flavors were clean and satisfying. The meal included side dishes like innards soup, which was pleasantly presented. Concerns about an overpowering smell were unwarranted, and we couldn’t detect any off-putting odor. Additionally, there was pepper and red pepper flakes on the side, enhancing the experience.
The cost amounted to 9,320 yen (including a cola priced around 630 yen). While it might be pricier than typical meals, the experience was well worth it. This spot was included in our Shibuya Sky itinerary, and we highly recommend it.
3. こめらく 贅沢な、お茶漬け日和。 ルミネエスト新宿店
Address: 7F Lumine Est Shinjuku, 3 Chome-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Menu: Unagi-don (Eel Rice Bowl), Ochazuke
Google Rating: 4.1 (258)
A dining establishment offering reasonably priced, high-quality unagi-don (eel rice bowl) options.
Their menu also includes ochazuke.
Ochazuke is a distinct Japanese dish where green tea is poured over rice, an acquired taste enjoyed by some.
Experience incredible and distinct flavors here! The rice bowls can be savored as is or transformed into delightful ochazuke based on your preferences. Both approaches offer deliciousness, and toggling between them adds an element of enjoyment. The seafood toppings are consistently fresh, and the array of sauces and condiments allows for further customization. While seating might involve a wait, the experience is undoubtedly rewarding.
4. Sarabeth’s LUMINE 2 Shinjuku
Address: 22F Lumine, 3 Chome-38-2 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Menu: Brunch
Google Rating: 4.1 (1,393)
A restaurant situated within the station premises, offering a typical American-style breakfast experience.
Referred to as the “Queen of New York Breakfast” in Tokyo.
While the quality of food is satisfactory, the overall experience might not match up to Sarabeth’s branches in Dubai or New York. Although the dishes are enjoyable, the pricing is deemed on the higher side. Noteworthy recommendations include the fries and French toast.
Expect a bustling atmosphere due to its popularity, potentially leading to a short wait. However, the quick service turnover ensures a relatively swift entry. The taste reviews are generally favorable.