A stroll through the downtown area with a croquette in hand
On my days off, I enjoy walking around 20,000 steps a day and exploring croquettes. I often visit the eastern part of Tokyo, the so-called downtown area, and I find it fascinating that I get to cross many bridges along the way and see different scenery each time.
There are famous tourist spots and entertainment districts that are visited by many people from Japan and abroad. There are also residential areas and temple towns. There are areas where you might think there are a lot of pretentious restaurants, and areas where everyday eateries are bustling. Tokyo's streets are seamlessly connected, so I think it's fascinating that the scenery changes just by walking a little.
When walking around this downtown area, you'll notice that there are surprisingly few "local butcher shops." It can be a sad discovery, as some have stopped selling fried foods or prepared dishes, or even gone out of business. This time, we'll introduce you to croquettes you can buy at butcher shops still operating vigorously, mainly in the downtown area.
But what is it about deep-fried foods at butcher shops that makes them so appealing? I stop by one while out for a walk, browse the display case in front of the shop, and then I take a bite of the brown fries I receive right away. I feel a little guilty, maybe because I'm an adult, but I can't help but feel the joy.
Perhaps this way of enjoying croquettes has not changed since the Edo period, when people would snack on sushi and tempura from street stalls. It may be an exaggeration to say that this is a culture inherited from the Edo period, but I would like to continue to proudly enjoy freshly fried croquettes in front of my house.
Ishikawa Meat
This butcher shop is located in the Iriya area, where a strong downtown atmosphere still remains. The fried food, made with homemade lard and their famous far-infrared fryer, does not absorb too much oil, so you can enjoy a crispy and light texture even after a while. There are two types of handmade croquettes, each containing onions that have been carefully soaked to remove the bitterness. Be sure to try the popular fries as well.
Address: 1-3-8 Iriya, Taito-ku | map
Tochigiya
Kappabashi, Japan's number one tool town, is also popular with foreign tourists. Once you leave the busy streets, you'll find a residential area. Attracted by the smell of yakitori being grilled in front of the store, you'll stop by a butcher shop and see a sign advertising the local specialty, "Kappa Croquette." The large croquette, shaped like a kappa's shell, is very satisfying to eat. It's also perfect as a snack during a stroll.
Address: 3-7-1 Nishiasakusa, Taito-ku | map
Meat Oyama Ueno store
In the Ueno Ameyoko area, which is visited by many people every day, there is a corner lined with bars that are bustling from noon. People who enjoy fried food and yakitori in front of the stores often join in for a drink. Addictive croquettes are a must-have accompaniment to a mug. It's also great that you can easily stop by between museum visits or walks.
Address: 6-13-2 Ueno, Taito-ku | map
Choushiya
Located behind the Kabukiza Theater, this popular shop always has a constant line of customers waiting to get in. Another great thing about it is that you can always buy freshly fried croquettes. The sandwiches are also excellent, but we also recommend buying a large quantity of the croquettes to stock up in the freezer as a side dish. It's great to have a place like this in the heart of the city where you can stuff your face with croquettes.
Address: 3-11-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku | map
Meat Takasago
You hear that announcement on the Oedo Line train when it stops at Tsukishima Station! The storefront is lined with meats and side dishes that will make you want to buy everything. Among them, the generously sized Yakiton Croquette, made with the famous Tokyo Yakiton, is perfect as a souvenir or gift. A standout menu item is the luxurious curry croquette, filled with rich beef tendon curry made from Japanese Black Beef.
Address: 2-21-6 Tsukuda, Chuo-ku | map
Ohnoya Beef Shop
Although it is outside the downtown area, the charming streets, including the remains of samurai residences, alleys, shrines and temples, and entertainment districts, make for a great place for a stroll. At the top of a hill where people come and go day and night, you'll find a butcher shop with an attractive fried food display. They offer four types of croquettes fried in their own lard. The corn and chicken cream croquette is a favorite for its mild flavor.
Address: 6-8-58 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku | map
