Best Seafood in Shinjuku: An Experience That Awakens the Senses

Are you a seafood lover looking for the best spots to indulge in fresh, delicious seafood in Shinjuku? Look no further! Shinjuku is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Tokyo, offering a wide variety of seafood dishes to suit all tastes and budgets.

From traditional sushi and sashimi to grilled seafood and seafood hotpots, Shinjuku has it all. Whether you're a local or a tourist, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to seafood in Shinjuku. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the top seafood restaurants in Shinjuku, iconic seafood dishes to try, local favourites and hidden gems, and some tips for seafood lovers in Shinjuku.

So, whether you're a seafood connoisseur or a curious foodie, get ready to explore the best seafood that Shinjuku has to offer. Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways

• Shinjuku is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Tokyo, offering a wide variety of seafood dishes to suit all tastes and budgets.
• From traditional sushi and sashimi to grilled seafood and seafood hotpots, Shinjuku has it all.
• This article will explore the top seafood restaurants in Shinjuku, iconic seafood dishes to try, local favourites and hidden gems, and some tips for seafood lovers in Shinjuku.

Top Seafood Restaurants in Shinjuku

If you are a seafood lover, Shinjuku is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings. With a plethora of options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. To help you out, we have compiled a list of the top seafood restaurants in Shinjuku.

1. Sushi Shin

Sushi Shin is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves some of the best sushi in Shinjuku. The restaurant is run by Chef Miyakawa, who has over 20 years of experience in sushi making. The menu changes daily, depending on the availability of the freshest seafood. The restaurant has a cosy and intimate atmosphere, with only 8 seats available at the counter. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot.

2. Kani Doraku

Kani Doraku is a popular crab restaurant that has been around for over 50 years. The restaurant is known for its giant crab statue outside, which has become a symbol of Shinjuku. The menu features a variety of crab dishes, including grilled, boiled, and steamed crab. The restaurant also serves other seafood dishes such as sashimi and tempura. The prices are reasonable, making it a great option for those on a budget.

3. Tsunahachi

Tsunahachi is a tempura restaurant that has been serving delicious tempura since 1923. The restaurant uses only the freshest seafood and vegetables, which are coated in a light and crispy batter. The tempura is served with a dipping sauce and a bowl of rice. The restaurant has a casual and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great option for a quick and tasty meal.

Whether you are in the mood for sushi, crab, or tempura, Shinjuku has something for everyone. Make sure to check out these top seafood restaurants on your next visit to Shinjuku.

Iconic Seafood Dishes to Try

Are you looking for the best seafood dishes in Shinjuku? Look no further than these iconic dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Sushi Delights

Sushi is a staple of Japanese cuisine, and Shinjuku has some of the best sushi restaurants in the world. Head to Sushi Tokyo Ten Shinjuku for a taste of their signature sushi rolls, made with fresh fish and expertly prepared rice. Or, try Soushi Menya Musashi for a more traditional sushi experience, with a focus on simple, high-quality ingredients.

Savoury Tempura

Tempura is a popular Japanese dish that consists of battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables. For some of the best tempura in Shinjuku, head to Ramen Nagi - Shinjuku Golden-gai Honkan. Their tempura is light and crispy, with a variety of seafood options to choose from. Or, try Tempura Tsunahachi for a more traditional tempura experience, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Unagi Specialties

Unagi, or eel, is a popular seafood dish in Japan, and Shinjuku has some of the best unagi restaurants around. Head to Unagi Miyagawa for their signature grilled unagi, served with a sweet and savoury sauce. Or, try Nodaiwa for a more upscale unagi experience, with a focus on high-quality, sustainable ingredients.

From sushi to tempura to unagi, Shinjuku has something for every seafood lover. Don't miss out on these iconic dishes during your next visit to this bustling neighbourhood.

Local Favourites and Hidden Gems

If you're looking for the best seafood in Shinjuku, you'll want to check out some of the local favourites and hidden gems in the area. From izakaya hotspots to family-owned eateries, these places have a lot to offer.

Izakaya Hotspots

Izakayas are Japanese gastropubs that serve a variety of small plates and drinks. They're a great place to try new foods and enjoy a lively atmosphere. In Shinjuku, there are several izakaya hotspots that are known for their seafood dishes.

One of the most popular spots is Takamaru, which is located in the heart of Shinjuku's Kabukicho district. This izakaya serves a wide variety of seafood dishes, including sashimi, grilled fish, and fried shrimp. The atmosphere is lively and the prices are reasonable.

Another popular izakaya is Uoshin, which has several locations throughout Tokyo. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere. You can try everything from raw oysters to grilled squid, and the prices are very reasonable.

Family-Owned Eateries

If you're looking for a more traditional dining experience, you might want to check out some of the family-owned eateries in Shinjuku. These restaurants often have a more intimate atmosphere and offer a chance to try authentic Japanese cuisine.

One of the best family-owned eateries in Shinjuku is Sushi Kikuchi. This restaurant is run by a husband-and-wife team who are passionate about serving fresh, high-quality sushi. The prices are a bit higher than some of the other options in the area, but the quality is worth it.

Another great option is Sakura, a small restaurant that specializes in tempura and other fried dishes. The owner is known for his attention to detail and the quality of his ingredients. The prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming.

Whether you're looking for a lively izakaya or a cozy family-owned eatery, Shinjuku has something to offer seafood lovers of all kinds.

Tips for Seafood Lovers in Shinjuku

If you're a seafood lover, Shinjuku is the perfect destination for you. With its bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere, it's no surprise that Shinjuku is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Tokyo. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your seafood experience in Shinjuku.

Best Times to Dine

The best time to dine at seafood restaurants in Shinjuku is during the evening. Many restaurants offer dinner specials that feature the freshest catches of the day. You can also enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere during the evening, as the lunchtime rush has subsided.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider visiting during lunchtime. Many restaurants offer lunch specials that are both delicious and affordable. Keep in mind that lunchtime can be busy, so be prepared to wait in line.

Cultural Etiquette

When dining at a seafood restaurant in Shinjuku, it's important to be mindful of cultural etiquette. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Don't pour soy sauce directly onto your rice. Instead, pour a small amount into a small dish and dip your sushi or sashimi into it.
• When eating sushi, use your hands instead of chopsticks. This is the traditional way to eat sushi in Japan.
• Don't mix wasabi into your soy sauce. Instead, place a small amount of wasabi onto your sushi or sashimi before dipping it into the soy sauce.
• When drinking sake, it is customary to pour for others before pouring for yourself.

By following these tips, you can fully immerse yourself in the culture of Shinjuku while enjoying some of the best seafood in Tokyo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Shinjuku restaurant serves the freshest sashimi and sushi?

If you're looking for the freshest sashimi and sushi in Shinjuku, you can't go wrong with Isomaru Suisan. Their seafood is delivered fresh from the market every day, and you can even choose your own fish from the tanks.

Can you recommend a place in Shinjuku for an authentic tempura feast?

For an authentic tempura feast, head to Tenkichi. They have been serving up delicious tempura dishes for over 80 years, and their menu features a wide variety of seafood options. Be sure to try their famous prawn tempura.

What seafood dining establishments in Shinjuku offer the best ambience for a night out?

If you're looking for a seafood dining establishment with a great atmosphere for a night out, check out Sushi Zanmai. They have a lively atmosphere, and their menu features a wide variety of sushi and seafood dishes. Another great option is Uoshin, which has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic night out.