Italian restaurants in Japan
- Sort by:
- Popular
-
A
Vinoteca
Quite possibly one of the hottest restaurants in the city at the time of writing, this inevitable crowd pleaser offers open-air dining overlooking the gardens of Tokyo Midtown. As these tables are some of the most in-demand seats in the capital, you would be wise to book in advance (in fact it's necessary) to ensure that you don't let down your better half.
Although true Italian connoisseurs may find fault in the slight Japan-isation of the menu, the food here is nevertheless spectacular, and the alfresco dining is arguably the city's best.
reviewed
-
B
Capricciosa
For heaped portions of pasta at rock-bottom prices you won’t do much better than this longtime student favourite. Pasta dishes start at around ¥800 and you can choose from pizzas, salads, and various meat and fish dishes. It will definitely not be the best Italian you’ve ever had, but you’ll probably leave full and happy. It’s near the Sanjō-Kawaramachi crossing; look for the red-brick steps and the green awning. There’s an English menu and an English sign.
reviewed
-
C
Canal Café
When summer evenings in the capital hang heavy with humidity, this is one of the rare spots in the city centre with breathing room, allowing you to enjoy a cold glass of white wine and a light meal by the water. The specialities are wood-fired thin-crust pizza, and Italian pasta such as scallop dishes and prawns in a light cream sauce, though the real reason you’re here is to savour a cocktail while soaking up the European atmosphere.
reviewed
-
D
Taverna
Here are some reasons this cosy, Roman-inspired spot has been here forever: spaghetti all’amatriciana (with bacon and tomato sauce) or vongole (clams, olive oil and garlic), and pizza mista (with anchovy, tuna and prosciutto). Some people eat here every night, inspired by the authentic cuisine, the charm of the owner and reasonable prices.
reviewed
-
E
Eataly
In this neighbourhood – in this city – that worships all things Italian, airy, rambling Eataly is one-stop shopping: trattoria, bakery, espresso bar, salumeria, cheese shop, wine shop and outdoor cafe. Even the shopping carts are so cute that you’ll want to pinch their little shopping-cart cheeks.
reviewed
-
F
Ristorante Mario
A cosy ivy-clad place serving honest Italian food with good service, and a romantic atmosphere in the evenings. Weekday lunch courses start at ¥1180. Try to reserve on weekends.
reviewed
-
Campagne
This cosy, quietly fashionable Italian bistro serves lovely set menus including house-made focaccia, salads, pastas, 'plosciutto' (sic) and desserts, plus hors-d'oeuvres you can eat with chopsticks. Friendly, professional staff.
reviewed
-
G
Holy Grail
Italian trattoria-style dishes in a hardwood, homestyle setting. Crostini, pizzas, pastas, and more, or lunchtime spaghettis. Inexpensive house wines are available by the bottle.
reviewed
-
H
Vieni
This Italian cafe serves excellent expresso as well as various alcoholic drinks. The Italian fare on offer here is quite good and the owners speak some English. A nice spot for a break in the Kitano area, it also hosts occasional music events.
reviewed
-
I
Sunny Public Market
This bright, open Italian-style trattoria on Tenmonkan's main street specialises in pastas, pizzas and desserts for a youthful clientele. Lunch set meals (from ¥750) are a great deal including soup, salad, drink and dessert. All-you-can-eat and drink dinner buffet from ¥3000 (¥3500 includes alcohol).
reviewed
Advertisement
-
J
R Valentino
Pizzas cooked in a brick oven are the draw at this Sannomiya Italian restaurant. It's very casual and comfortable and there's an English/Italian menu. The Italian owner can explain the specials and make recommendations.
reviewed
-
K
Pommes Soufflées
The menu at this modern cafe-restaurant includes pastas and pizzas, plus there's a range of sweet bready items you can have with your coffee. Course menus are priced from ¥1575 to ¥4200. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
reviewed
-
L
Osteria del Campagne
This cosy, quietly fashionable Italian bistro serves lovely set menus, including house-made focaccia, salads, pastas and desserts, plus hors d'oeuvres you can eat with chopsticks. It has an English menu and friendly, professional staff.
reviewed
-
Niseko Pizza
This authentic family-run pizzeria headed by the affable Cezar is a popular late-night spot. Classic pies cater to big appetites, while gourmet variations and pastas suit more discerning palettes. Bonus: Niseko Pizza delivers, so no need to brave the cold if you suddenly develop a hankering for melted mozzarella! The pizzeria is in a brick building with English signage across from the Park Hotel in Hirafu.
reviewed
-
M
La Francesca
Excellent Italian food is the main attraction at this elegant Tuscan villa, on the left as you head up the hill to the St Francis Xavier Memorial Church. Set-course options include the Pranzo (¥1890) at lunchtime and Verde (¥5250) in the evenings. The menu changes seasonally.
reviewed
-
N
Bosco
Just outside the covered arcade (look for the pink lit signs), this cosy trattoria has an open kitchen, two large tables and a long counter. Ebi-abokado spaghetti (with shrimp, avocado and clams) has legions of fans.
reviewed
-
O
Porto Caro
Colourful, 2nd-floor trattoria specialising in pasta dishes with local seafood, and pizzas; look for the English sign two blocks down from the post office.
reviewed