Grilled Skewers, Tiny Bars, and Retro Vibes in Shinjuku
🍢 Omoide Yokocho – A Taste of Old Tokyo
Grilled Skewers, Tiny Bars, and Retro Vibes in Shinjuku
🌟 What is Omoide Yokocho?
Omoide Yokocho, also known as “Memory Lane” or informally “Piss Alley“, is a narrow alleyway of tiny eateries and bars located near Shinjuku Station. It offers a nostalgic glimpse of post-war Tokyo with smoky grills, red lanterns, and seating for only a handful of people per shop.
If you’re looking for authentic local food and a classic Tokyo atmosphere, this is a must-visit spot.
🏮 Why Visit Omoide Yokocho?
- 🍢 Yakitori Heaven: Charcoal-grilled chicken and offal skewers
- 🏮 Retro Ambience: Lantern-lit alleyways, old-school signs, and friendly locals
- 📸 Photogenic: Great for Instagram and night shots
- 🥂 Bar-Hopping Friendly: Many spots to try different flavors in one evening
- 🧑🍳 Talk with Owners: Many bars are run by long-time local chefs
🚨 Visitor Tips
- 💴 Cash Only at most places
- 🚬 Smoking Allowed in many bars
- 🧳 Limited Space: Only 4–8 seats per spot—expect intimacy
- 📷 Ask Before Photos inside restaurants
- 🌍 Some English-Friendly Spots, but a smile and “Omakase” go a long way
🚉 Access
- From Shinjuku Station (West Exit): 2-minute walk
- Located near the railway tracks behind the Odakyu Department Store
🕐 Best Time to Visit
- 🕕 Evening (5:00 PM – Midnight)
Most shops open around 5 PM, and the area fills up quickly with after-work locals and travelers.
🍴 Top 3 Places to Eat in Omoide Yokocho
1. Tachan Yakitori
- 🍗 Local-favorite spot known for perfectly grilled chicken skewers
- ⛩️ Feels like stepping into 1950s Tokyo
- 📍 Inside Omoide Yokocho (look for red lanterns)
- 🕒 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
2. Kameya – Soba & Tempura
- 🍜 Stand-up noodle bar with crispy tempura and handmade soba
- 💸 Cheap, fast, and delicious
- 📍 Entrance of Omoide Yokocho
- 🕒 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM
3. Asadachi
- 🧪 Adventurous izakaya serving rare delicacies like frog and snake sake
- 🤯 For brave foodies seeking something wild
- 📍 Center of Omoide Yokocho
- 🕒 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
📍 Address & Contact
Address
1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
Nearby Info
Shinjuku Tourist Information Center
📞 +81-3-3354-5171
✨ For smoky yakitori, retro vibes, and unforgettable flavors, Omoide Yokocho is Tokyo’s hidden gem.