Eating Is NOT Cheating! Getting Your Grub On in Nichome
So you’ve been bar hopping around Nichome, maybe made a few new friends, had a few (too many) drinks… and now you’re hungry.
You probably already know where to drink in Nichome, but finding solid food spots, especially late at night, is a whole different story. Whether you need something to line your stomach before you start your night or a satisfying meal to soak up the booze after hours of drinking, this area actually has some amazing options.
Here are some of the best late-night food spots to check out.
Food Bar Takorin
If you’re looking for the ultimate late-night snack spot, this is it. Takorin has been around since 2007 and has become a Nichome mainstay. If you hang out in the area long enough, you’ll definitely hear people talking about it. They specialize in comfort food like takoyaki, yakisoba, and grilled skewers.
Personally, I always end up ordering the takoyaki and yakisoba after drinking. The yakisoba has thick noodles and a rich, salty flavor that just hits perfectly late at night. They’re open from 6pm all the way until 7pm, every single day, which makes it super convenient for those indulging in a late-night session.
I’ve only ever grabbed takeout from the window, but you can actually sit inside and drink there too!
Kikka
This place is a lifesaver, because it’s open 24/7! Whether you go before drinking or after, the tonkotsu ramen it serves always hits the spot. Just walk in, go to the ticket machine, pick what you want, hand the ticket to the staff, and you’re good to go.
The tonkotsu broth here is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. I usually go for the vegetable ramen or the cilantro ramen, but honestly, everything is solid. You can also customize your bowl with garlic and spicy seasonings at the table, which is perfect if you want something a little stronger after a night out.
It can get pretty busy late at night, but that just shows how popular it is.
Momo Thai
Craving something different? This 24-hour Thai restaurant is a hidden gem. It’s located at the end of Nichome’s main street and is super easy to get to. Its gapao rice is seriously one of the best I’ve had. The balance between the fluffy rice and juicy, flavorful meat is just perfect.
If you like spicy food, you’ll love this place. The spice level can be intense in a good way, and honestly, might wake you up after drinking. They also offer smaller portions, like mini green curry and mini gapao sets, which is great if you’re not super hungry but still want something satisfying.
Chinese Restaurant Eight
A 24-hour Chinese restaurant in nearby Shinjuku Sanchome, this place is great when you’re with a group or just want a lot of options. The menu is huge, so there’s something for everyone.
One thing you’re bound to notice is that it includes a giant statue inside modeled after male genitalia. It’s kind of shocking at first, but after a while, you stop noticing it, especially once the food arrives (much like penises in real life).
The portions are generous, the flavors are solid, and it’s a fun, slightly chaotic place to end your night.
Yoshida Kaigan
Located right next to Kingdom, this izakaya is a great spot before you start drinking. They have over 100 items on the menu, literally covering the walls, so you’ll never run out of options, and the staff are super friendly and can speak English, which makes it easy for visitors.
I personally love the fresh oysters here, but they also serve all the classic izakaya dishes like tamagoyaki Japanese omelette and karaage fried chicken. Portions come in different sizes, so it works well whether you’re alone or with a group. One thing to keep in mind: it’s cash only.
6. Matsuya
If it’s your first time in Japan, you really should try Matsuya at least once. It’s one of Japan’s largest fast-food chains, known for gyudon (beef bowls) and set meals.
It’s open 24/7, incredibly fast, and super affordable: most meals are under ¥1000, but the quality is still surprisingly good. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable — and sometimes that’s exactly what you need after a long night.
7. Ododo
This small spot next to the gay 7-Eleven specializes in mazesoba, a type of ramen with little to no broth. Instead of soup, you mix the sauce, oil, and toppings directly into the noodles before eating. It’s originally from Nagoya and has become really popular in recent years.
But Ododo’s version is something special: their bowl is loaded with meat, and the flavor is rich, heavy, and super satisfying. It’s definitely on the more indulgent side, perfect when you’re drunk and craving something filling. It’s even been featured on TV and in the media, so it’s not just hype!
Shinjuku Nichome isn’t just about nightlife; it actually has a ton of great food if you know where to look. A lot of places stay open until early morning or even 24 hours a day, so you’ll never really have to worry about going hungry, no matter how late it gets.
So next time you’re out in Nichome, don’t just drink, make sure you eat well too. Itadakimasu!
