Book ahead in Tokyo

5 places for Book ahead in Tokyo, picked by creators — with what they said.

• 긴자 카츠카미 — 나의시선
  The counter-side pairing of freshly fried pieces served one or two at a time (eaten with capers on top) along with the chef's commentary is entertaining, and calls it the number one restaurant he's experienced in Japan.
  Heads up: The main branch is booked out two months in advance, so aim for the second location instead; for the finishing rice, recommends the curry rice over ochazuke.
• 쇼타이엔 긴자점 — 나의시선
  Says putting a piece of meat on fluffy white rice is the best, praising the clean, deep flavor from direct charcoal grilling.
  Heads up: The 600-hour aged beef tongue is reservation-only, so you need to call ahead, and he strongly recommends going at night.
• 焼肉つじむら 新宿本店 — 픽필름 pickfilm
  Said the beef tongue was unbelievably chewy yet tender with perfectly balanced seasoning, and the course offered great variety and generous portions.
  Heads up: Last order is at 9:30pm and prices aren't cheap (about 10,000 yen per person).
• 挽肉と米 渋谷 — 픽필름 pickfilm
  Said freshly cooked, fluffy rice is the key, and the salt-seasoned hamburger steak, though thick, was tender and juicy inside.
  Heads up: You have to grab a cancellation slot that opens at 9am on the reservation site that day, and the reservation isn't confirmed until card payment is completed.
• Benizuru Pancake — Jack's Dining Room
  Praised the fresh omakase-style pancake bar concept, where they make the batter and grill it right in front of you, topping it with a variety of toppings — and said the taste was excellent too.
  Heads up: Said you have to wake up at 5am, line up for the 7am registration, and prepay for your pancakes, and that they're already sold out by 7:45am.

All places in Tokyo