Where to Get American Food in Japan
You don’t go to Japan to eat American food specifically, but sometimes, you just want a taste of home.
Below, I’m sharing some of the amazing comfort food experiences that we’ve had while in Japan.
Sushi: American Sushi vs. Japanese Sushi
Sushi is such an integral part of the Japanese culture. Japan is actually credited for creating sushi as a cohesive dish, but it was the Chinese who were the first to create the idea of sushi.
American sushi is just over done and filled with a lot of extras. In Japan, sushi is delicious for its simplicity. In the picture posted below, I am having grilled eel, boiled shrimp, raw tuna and yes, egg salad sushi roll.
Another amazing thing in Japan is that you can order “sets” which are different variations of meals here in Japan.
While my husband and I were traveling down towards the tip of Japan we had the opportunity to stop at this beautiful onsen (basically a hotel/spa).
The restaurant here was stunning. It over looked the beautiful bay waters that lead out to the deep, beautiful sea. Since we had both been traveling all day we ordered the largest set possible. I had fried tempura, rice, miso soup and a bowl of raw fish.
I was surprised that in my raw fish bowl there was shark pieces! I will have to say… I am not a fan of eating JAWS. He’s a bit too fatty for my taste. Probably from all those surfers he was munching on in the movie!
American Soft Drinks in Japan
While we were at this onsen we also discovered that near by was a small aquarium that over looked the bay as well.
If you ever get a chance to visit Japan and want a very cool experience you have to go here. At the Keikyu Aburatsubo Marine Park, in Miura City, we got to hold hands with otters, pet sharks and watch a very cool dolphin show.
But the neatest thing was that they had Dr. Pepper. Dr. Pepper! In all of my time here in Japan, I have yet to see a single can of Dr. Pepper--that is until I visited this little out of the way aquarium.
American Fast Food in Japan
As you probably have guessed, I have traveled quite a bit around Japan. But the one thing that continues to surprise me is all of the American restaurants that are over here. Including the
ones listed below, I have also seen a Red Lobster, Taco Bell, Burger King, KFC, HOOTERS, Outback Steakhouse and of course Dominoes Pizza.
Yes, you’re correct in thinking. That is a three story McDonald’s and it was packed! Another cool thing about McDonald’s here is that they deliver. Probably a good thing they don’t offer that service in America!
Denny’s in Japan
Breakfast anyone? Denny’s in Japan is not identical in flavor or in taste. But, it is unfortunately, the only place to get a decent American size breakfast on the main island.
There is another place that is very similar to Denny’s and it’s called Jonathan’s. It too offers a a simple American breakfast option.
But I think that is only because they are located so close to base. Denny’s, however, is scattered all over the main island. We have one near base and the one pictured below is about two hours from us near Enoshima Beach.
Cafe Du Monde in Japan
Now, if you’re a Louisiana native this next image will blow you out of the water.
My husband and I were just wondering around a train station waiting for our next train to arrive when we turned a corner and my eyes landed on this beauty.
If you have ever been to the famous Cafe Du Monde you know exactly how exciting this is. I am from Texas originally and traveled to New Orleans quite often.
Having one of their delicious cafe au lait or a heavenly beignet can all but change your life. I was so beyond excited when I went in. All I could think was "powder sugar overload."
But alas, it was not the same. The beignets were not dusted with powdered sugar, but with cinnamon sugar. The cafe au lait was seriously lacking as well. But the excitement of it was sure to last a life time.
