Food and Tokyo are virtually synonymous - from Michelin starred restaurants to endless selections of globally popular ramen and sushi, it’s a gourmand’s paradise. Unsurprisingly there are countless more facets to the local food scene, and perhaps among the obscure revolves around the ideas of ‘organic’ and ‘farm to table’. In Tokyo, and Japan at large, quality control standards are already second to none (so much so that no one bats an eye about eating raw eggs). But sourcing and enjoying organic ingredients – known here as ‘yūki’ – is seeing more demand than ever, so here are the best ways to enjoy the movement in Tokyo.
Grab and Go
On vacation abroad, organic eaters generally have to relax their beliefs, especially when it comes to snacks. But Tokyo is bucking expectations with places like Trueberry Organic Juice (multiple locations) that meet the demands of one’s smoothie addiction with the best available organic berries and greens. Want to see how a kale, spirulina, or acai berry detoxes in Tokyo stacks up against one in NYC? The exhaustive menu dazzles, energizes, and satisfies. Sweet teeth can stay organic at Floresta Nature Donuts(multiple locations), where a respect for ingredients meet kawaii donut creations that are perfect guilt-free bites thanks to their diminutive size. If that’s not enough, 8ablish is ideal for gluten free and vegan desserts that range from cookies to cakes, nut bars, granolas and more; it’s also a great place to pick up gifts (like the nut butters or date syrup) that will impress back home. Marugo Deli Ebisuis the place to get that healthy burger fix – tuna, tempeh or even potato salad style – smoothie drinks and bowls, and organic coffee beverages. Light yet filling, it’s the perfect energizer at any time of the day.
The Raw (and Prepared) Deal
Lately, an increasing number of established grocery chains are stocking organic products, but to find the widest selection, heading to specialists like Natural House(multiple locations) andOisix (online) is a must. Visitors looking for a taste of home can follow the expats who gravitate to National Azabu – which carries everything from hard-to-find hummus to gluten free bread. Farmers’ markets are also becoming a huge deal, as there are many farms in the vicinity of Tokyo and beyond producing to organic standards. Perhaps the most famous gathering is Farmer’s Market at UN University, which draws countless locals for its abundance of delights, from the best produce to artisanal baked goods, craft wines, and more. The monthly Tokyo Romantic Market is also a great way to get organic foods along with a plethora of other goods – from crafts to antiques. But on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, many neighborhoods have their own regular market, from Yebisu Marche to Kichijoji Harmonica Yokocho Asaichi, and Hill Marche Ark Hills.
Delicious Preparations
When it comes to an organic meal out, We Are the Farm Organic Restaurant (multiple locations) is one of the most admired. There’s a good reason why – the treatment of seasonal ingredients from burdock root to sweet potato, daikon, sunchokes and mushrooms is beyond compare, and along with its selection of organic meats, this is where veggie and meat lovers can share a meal. A little bit European, and a little bit Japanese, it’s an exceptional example of how an organic approach can elevate a menu. Vegetarian restaurants also tend to be a good source for organic ingredients, killing two birds (so to speak) with one stone. Bio Caféwas one of the first of these to open in Tokyo – the menu skews European with its gratins and salads, and it’s done in a way that really honors the quality of ingredients used. The more Japanese-inspired BROWN RICE CANTEEN by Neal’s Yard Remedies is a great way for vegetarians and vegans to enjoy dishes like curry and rice without worrying about meat, poultry, or fish products getting in the way. Such shining stars foretell a bright future for organic eating.
For more information on enjoying organic foods in Tokyo, contact press@tokyo-nyc.com or call 917-200-4887. For general information on traveling in Tokyo, head toTokyoTokyo.jpandGotokyo.org/en/
To visit the archives, visit:www.japansolutionusa.com/tokyobeat
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