With 226 Michelin star restaurants alone, many say that Tokyo is the most delicious city in the world. Certainly it is any food lover’s dream travel destination. Tokyo is huge – 37 times larger than Manhattan. The good and bad news is that there are thousands of delicious places to eat, from award winning omakase experiences, to hole in the wall izakayas, interactive yakinikus and stellar international food. But only so many meals in a day! Luckily, walking around such a large city builds up an appetite. Try a variety of restaurants and you won’t be sorry (or hungry).
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Not only does the 52nd floor Rooftop Bar have some of the best views of Tokyo all the way to the Rainbow Bridge, but the food and cocktails are delicious (try the chicken karage and smoky gin rose hip Cosmo). Save room for an omakase meal at the hidden 8-seater the SUSHI paired with the Andaz own brand of sake: Andaz Original “52”. The chef takes your through the seasonal menu, explaining techniques and sharing stories. Lightly torched salmon nigiri topped with freshly grated wasabi and tofu paired with uni were just two stand-outs. The Andaz is also perfectly located near the vibrant Roppongi and high-end Ginza neighborhoods with sleek guest rooms that reflect Japanese simplicity in design.
A little refuge in the middle of lively Tokyo. This luxury boutique hotel inside the New Otani hotel is a treat from the moment you arrive. From the sweet ginger tea at check-in to your choice of sized Egyptian cotton pajamas or yukata (a casual kimono) and New Otani branded chocolates with turndown service, you’ll feel taken care of. Right on the property is a 10-acre zen garden complete with a waterfall and koi pond, and red rose garden. Breakfast at a selection of restaurants or room service is included in your stay. Their VIP lounge also has complimentary food six times a day in addition to 37 restaurants on-site so you’ll never go hungry. You also have access to the New Otani Golden Spa and gym and they provide everything for you so you don’t even have to bring your sneakers!
Originally built in 1962, The Okura Tokyo recently completed a four-year renovation, restoring much of the admired mid-century modern meets Japanese simplicity décor. Many world leaders and famous faces have stayed at the New Okura, from Barak Obama to John Lennon to Princess Diana. Don’t miss getting a drink, panoramic views, and the Patissier’s Table – a dessert tasting menu – on the 41st floor Starlight Lounge.
This family-run edomae style omakase restaurant does not skimp on ingredients or preparation. Even the sesame seeds sprinkled over grilled squid taste more decadent and nuttier than any sesame seeds you’ve had before. Each of the 25 or so courses is perfectly brushed with sauce or zest, grilled, or touched with freshly grated wasabi before being served to you à la minute. Monkfish liver in a savory broth, cod testicles (for real) or eel prepared two wasy are just a few of the memorable bites. Even the fresh orange finale will have you wishing that all oranges were this good.
If you are in the market for the best in Japanese beef, look no further than Ushigoro in Ginza. A yakinuku for A5 wagyu beef prepared right at your table. The private tables are intimate making this the perfect spot for a romantic meal or a fun group dinner. Try the tasting menu for a variety from tartare to the most-tender meat topped with truffles, egg yolks or wasabi.
The famous tuna auction is no longer a part of Tsukiji Market, but the market is still a draw. With dozens of food stalls, restaurants and shops, and an unmistakable energy. The market gets crowded, so arrive early to beat the crowds. Or don’t and enjoy the hustle and bustle.
Not a typo. 7-Elevens are everywhere in Japan, but convenience is only one draw. The food is surprisingly delicious and their Japanese egg salad sandwich, with creamy egg salad betwixt pillowy crustless milk bread is worth seeking out.
This neighborhood, if you couldn’t tell by the giant chef statue, is the place to shop for all the kitchen things. From chef knives and pottery to personalized chopsticks and, of course, plastic restaurant display food, Kappabashi is a must for food souvenirs. If you’re in the market for a chef knife, stop by Kamata, a nearly 100-year old family run store with a helpful staff and large variety of knives.
Instagramers rejoice! This trendy neighborhood is your rainbow food paradise, so grab your Instagram boyfriend and make sure your camera is charged. Stop by Kawaii Monster Café for surprisingly delicious rainbow spaghetti and a show. Make a reservation, as the restaurant is as popular as it is colorful. Save room for dessert at Totti Factory on Takeshita Street for the original rainbow cotton candy, and finish the best day ever with visit to a pig café and a rainbow grilled cheese.
A basement level grocery section in a department store would not seem like a can’t-miss attraction, but the Ginza Food Market puts all others to shame. The presentation is immaculate and gift selection unparalleled. If they are offering samples, don’t be shy. A cherry tomato tasted sweeter than candy. Stop by a kiosk and purchase an exquisitely wrapped pastry or treat yourself to a perfect $200 melon.
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New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive,…