10 Top Spots for Octopus Takoyaki in Tokyo
Love those crispy, gooey octopus balls? Tokyo has some amazing spots for takoyaki. Here are 10 places locals love for a tasty street food bite.
Ever bitten into a perfectly round, crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside takoyaki ball? With a tender piece of octopus tucked inside, drizzled with savory sauce and bonito flakes dancing on top, it's one of Tokyo's best street food joys! This classic snack is a must-try, and finding a great spot makes all the difference. Forget the generic chains; we're talking about places where you can taste the care in every bite. Ready to dive into the world of delicious octopus takoyaki? We've picked out 10 fantastic places across Tokyo that locals and visitors adore for their tasty take on this iconic snack. Let's go find your new favorite!
There you have it – 10 wonderful spots to try octopus takoyaki in Tokyo! Each one offers a slightly different vibe, from quick takeaway windows to cozy izakayas for a relaxed meal. Whether you prefer super-late-night snacks or a daytime treat, there's a takoyaki spot waiting for you. Don't be shy; pick a few that catch your eye and taste the difference. These little balls of joy are a simple pleasure that truly capture the spirit of Tokyo's food scene. Happy eating!
Asakusa Takomaru
Asakusa Takomaru is a reliable stop for delicious takoyaki right in the Asakusa area. Rated 4.4/5 from over 400 reviews, it's clearly a favorite for its inexpensive, tasty octopus takoyaki. This spot is great for a quick takeaway meal as you explore the temples and busy streets. They're open every day from 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM, so it’s easy to fit into your schedule, whether for a morning snack or an early evening bite. Expect fresh, hot balls made right in front of you. Just grab a tray and enjoy the classic flavors of Tokyo street food.
Minatoya
Minatoya in Ueno is a very popular spot, boasting a 4/5 rating from over 1600 reviews! While it also offers sushi, their takoyaki is a big draw. It's an inexpensive choice, perfect for a casual meal or a tasty snack while exploring Ueno Park or the nearby markets. They're open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, and until 7:30 PM on weekends, making it a good daytime option. Given the high number of reviews, you might find a small queue, but it moves quickly. Grab some fresh octopus takoyaki here for a satisfying bite!
Tsukishima Monja Okoge Shibuya
This Shibuya spot, Tsukishima Monja Okoge, has an incredible 4.9/5 rating from over 32,000 reviews! While they specialize in monjayaki and seafood, their takoyaki is also highly praised. It's a moderate price level, so it's a bit more of a sit-down experience compared to a quick street stall. They have long hours, from 10:45 AM to 11:00 PM daily (opening a bit earlier at 10:30 AM on weekends). This makes it a perfect place for lunch or a late dinner. If you're looking for a top-rated spot with a lively atmosphere and great food, this is it.
Tako Oji
Tako Oji in Minato City is a fantastic pick, especially for an evening treat, with a superb 4.8/5 rating from over 240 reviews. This place is known as a Japanese izakaya, meaning it’s a great spot to relax with drinks and small dishes. They are closed on Mondays, but open from 6:00 PM until 12:30 AM (or later) Tuesday through Sunday. This late-night schedule makes it ideal for a delicious octopus takoyaki snack after a day of exploring. Price varies here, so call to confirm, but it’s definitely a spot for a relaxed, authentic experience.
TAKOBIVA
Located in Shinbashi, TAKOBIVA is another excellent choice for takoyaki, holding a strong 4.7/5 rating from over 140 reviews. It's a convenient takeaway spot that opens in the late afternoon, from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM every day. This makes it perfect for a pre-dinner snack or a late-night craving. Since the price varies, it's good to check on the day, but you can expect fresh, hot octopus takoyaki made to order. It’s a straightforward, no-frills place focused on delivering tasty street food. A great option if you're in the Shinbashi area!
Daikanyama Tenpu
Daikanyama Tenpu is a late-night favorite, rated 4.5/5 from over 200 reviews. This inexpensive spot in Shibuya truly comes alive after dark, opening from 7:00 PM and staying open until 3:00 AM every single day. If you find yourself hungry in the wee hours, this is your place for delicious octopus takoyaki. It’s a takeaway establishment, so it’s perfect for grabbing a snack to enjoy on the go. The late hours make it unique and a handy spot for travelers who keep different schedules. It's a convenient option for late-night cravings.
Gurume Takoyaki Asakusa
Also in Asakusa, Gurume Takoyaki is a well-regarded spot with a 4.5/5 rating from over 230 reviews. This place has a bit of a quirky schedule: it's closed on Tuesdays, but open from 3:00 PM to midnight on weekdays, and from noon on weekends (until 10:00 PM on Sunday). Price varies, so it’s good to check when you visit. It’s primarily a takeaway spot, making it easy to grab your fresh octopus takoyaki and continue exploring Asakusa. The later hours mean you can enjoy this snack well into the evening.
Takohachi
Takohachi, found in Ginza, is a popular spot with a 4.1/5 rating from over 260 reviews. This place is a moderate price level and specializes in takoyaki. It's primarily an evening spot, open from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM (or 2:00 AM on Fridays), and until 11:00 PM on Saturdays. It’s closed on Sundays. This makes it a fantastic choice for a casual dinner or a late-night snack if you're out and about in Ginza. The atmosphere is likely more restaurant-like, offering a comfortable place to enjoy your octopus takoyaki.
浅草DON-TAKO
浅草DON-TAKO is another highly-rated spot in Asakusa, with an impressive 4.8/5 from almost 200 reviews. This Japanese izakaya offers a split schedule: open for lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, then again for dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM, every day of the week. Price varies here, so check on your visit. Being an izakaya, it's a great place to sit down and enjoy your octopus takoyaki with a drink, making it a more relaxed dining experience than a quick street stall. It’s a wonderful option for a proper meal in Asakusa.
Tako-bō
Tako-bō in Setagaya City is a friendly, inexpensive spot with a solid 4.5/5 rating from over 250 reviews. They are closed on Thursdays, but open from 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM on other days. This makes it a convenient choice for lunch or an early dinner. It's a takeaway establishment, perfect for grabbing some fresh octopus takoyaki to enjoy as you stroll through Setagaya. If you're in the area and craving some classic street food, Tako-bō offers a consistently good and easy option.
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