Tokyo is the world’s most populous metropolitan area and a vibrant, kaleidoscopic mecca of history, culture, and, of course, some of the best cuisine in the world. The city boasts a large number of authentic restaurants serving top-notch Asian dishes and tasty international fare. If you’re in the mood for a delicious burger when in the heart of Japan, you’ve come to the right place, as Tokyo is also home to an array of top fast food joints serving mouthwatering versions of the American classic – here are some of the best.
Very unassuming, Arms Burger is a classic American-style burger hangout that sits unassumingly behind Yoyogi Park, just a few steps away from Tokyo’s favourite take-away coffee joint Little Nap. Cosy, laid-back and very family-friendly, this place really chooses substance over style, which is where it finds its timeless, rustic charm. Unlike newer American-style burger restaurants, Arms is all about serving up the comfort classics without the flash. A local cult favourite, this place gets pretty busy on the weekends, but during the week it’s easy to nab a sunny spot by the floor-to-ceiling open windows.
Sitting in one of Tokyo’s most fashionable pockets, The Great Burger is definitely heavily focussed on impressions, but it’s not just a show. On the weekend, a line snakes out the door, suggesting they’re doing something right. Once you get inside, you’ll realise the burgers are worth the hype. Perfectly toasted sesame buns, juicy patties and perfectly melted cheese, these guys have nailed the classics, but for something a little more contemporary, you can always consider the avocado, mango, or asparagus burger.
Blacows is interestingly named after the black cows that they use for their 100% waygu beef patties. Situated in the upscale neighborhood of Ebisu, the interior of this establishment features a rustic medieval European décor that creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. The beef patties are perfectly marinated, and are sandwiched between soft, crisp rolls and served with a side of salty, delicious potato wedges.
One that you’ve really got to work for is Baker Bounce, a popular well-trafficked haunt hidden in the weaving, ramshackle backstreets of Sangenjaya. The faux American vibe can be a little cheesy, but there’s not a single bad word to say about their burgers. A little pricier than some of their contemporaries, it’s definitely a ‘you get what you pay for’ situation. In order to ensure they serve their guests the very, very best, Baker Bounce offers a very relaxed and open ‘request’ policy, so you can specify exactly how you want your toppings.
If you’re going to call yourself ‘Authentic’, then you had better be pretty darn confident in your burger-making abilities, and luckily this Minato burger staple lives up to their own created hype. If you’re looking to mix highbrow and lowbrow charm, Authentic’s patties are 80% red meat and 20% prized, fatty wagyu beef, offering the best of both worlds. If you’re looking for super old-school classics, though, it’s probably best to look elsewhere; this joint’s most famous show-burger is a broccoli cheese combination.
Burger Mania is an extremely popular fast food chain with locations scattered throughout the city. They’re the masters of recreating classic-style burgers in a uniquely artisanal style. From smoked salmon and relish, to avocado and asparagus, nothing is off limits here. If the choices look a little overwhelming, try the fried chicken and bacon option served with creamy mayonnaise and salad of your choosing. The homemade chips served with an innovative gorgonzola and balsamic glaze has to be tasted to be believed.
Freshness Burger is by no means some secret underground Tokyo burger player. In fact, in Japan it’s about as (if not more) ubiquitous than McDonalds. However, visiting Freshness Burger Tomigaya is a very special experience. Opened in 1992, this is the very first Freshness Burger shop, and it remains relatively untouched. Keeping it classic and simple is their agenda, and it’s proven over the past two decades to be incredibly successful. The meat here is griddled until it is crisp and laid on a floury roll before it is laden with a runny egg and fresh vegetables – a true masterpiece in the art of burger making.
