Japan Rankings
When people think of Japanese food, sushi and ramen often come to mind. But Japan’s true culinary magic lies in its comfort meals and local street foods — the dishes loved by locals, packed with flavor, and often found at an affordable price.
Known in Japan as “B-Class Gourmet” (B級グルメ), these are everyday foods that don’t require a fancy restaurant to shine. Whether you're traveling across Tokyo, Osaka, or small towns in between, these dishes are easy to find, satisfying to eat, and offer a deeper taste of Japanese life.
Here are 10 must-try Japanese dishes you might not know yet — but definitely shouldn’t miss!
What it is: Noodles in a flavorful broth, topped with slices of pork, green onions, seaweed, and more.
Why it's popular: Japan’s take on this originally Chinese dish has evolved into a nationwide obsession. Each region has its own style — try miso ramen in Sapporo or tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka.
Where to try: Ramen shops (ramen-ya), food courts, vending machine ticket-style eateries.
What it is: Thick, mildly spicy curry poured over rice, sometimes topped with pork cutlet (katsu curry).
Why it's popular: Rich, warming, and slightly sweet, it's a Japanese soul food eaten at home, in schools, and in restaurants.
Where to try: Coco Ichibanya chain, cafeterias, and local curry diners.
What it is: A crispy pork cutlet simmered with egg and onions in a sweet soy-based sauce, served over rice.
Why it's popular: Crispy + juicy + fluffy egg = unbeatable combo. A classic “victory meal” for students and salarymen.
Where to try: Donburi chains, tonkatsu restaurants, train station eateries.
What it is: Thinly sliced beef and onions simmered in sweet soy sauce, served over rice.
Why it's popular: Fast, cheap, and tasty. It's the Japanese equivalent of a comforting beef bowl.
Where to try: Yoshinoya, Sukiya, Matsuya — major national chains.
What it is: A savory pancake made with cabbage, flour, eggs, and various toppings like pork, shrimp, or cheese.
Why it's popular: It's customizable and fun — especially when cooked at your own table. Topped with sweet sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes.
Where to try: Specialty restaurants in Osaka or Hiroshima, food stalls at festivals.
What it is: Fried rice flavored with ketchup and wrapped in a soft omelet, often drizzled with more ketchup or demi-glace.
Why it's popular: Sweet, fluffy, and nostalgic — loved by both kids and adults.
Where to try: Family restaurants, retro cafés, and yoshoku (Western-style Japanese food) diners.
What it is: A thick pork cutlet breaded and deep-fried until crispy, usually served with rice and shredded cabbage.
Why it's popular: That first crunch is unforgettable. A hearty and satisfying dish.
Where to try: Tonkatsu specialty shops, department store restaurants, and casual diners.
What it is: Stir-fried noodles with pork and vegetables, flavored with a Worcestershire-like sweet sauce.
Why it's popular: Quick, flavorful, and a staple at Japanese festivals. Great with pickled ginger on top.
Where to try: Street vendors, convenience stores, festival food stands.
What it is: A Japanese hamburger steak — no bun — served with rice and sauce (usually demi-glace).
Why it's popular: Juicy, soft, and comforting. This is Japan’s take on Western meatloaf.
Where to try: Yoshoku diners, family restaurants like Gusto or Saizeriya.
What it is: Spaghetti stir-fried with ketchup, onions, bell peppers, and sliced sausages.
Why it's popular: Sweet, savory, and totally retro. Created in post-war Japan and still going strong.
Where to try: Old-school cafés (kissaten), train station diners, and yoshoku restaurants.
These dishes are found not in luxury restaurants but in places where locals eat daily:
Don’t leave Japan without trying a few of these! You’ll discover a whole new side of Japanese food culture — rich in flavor, history, and heart.
