Tokyo has upped its food truck game, and these days there are plenty of delicious options for those who need lunch on the go. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites in different spots around town…
Banban at Commune 2nd
WHAT IT IS: Looking for a trendy take on a Chinese treat? Banban’s gyoza are second to none: try these delectable dumplings in cheese and sriracha, ginger and shiso, or their house special yuzu and oroshi (made from soy sauce and daikon radish) flavors. Banban also features other yuzu dishes such as yuzu yakisoba, and you can add some special grilled corn on the cob to any order.
WHERE IT IS: Commune 2nd is a happening hangout in Aoyama open seven days a week, and is popular with Japanese and foreigners alike. It is especially busy in the evenings, and it’s no wonder since nearly all of the 15 or so food trucks in the area serve alcohol.
Rocket Chicken at Yoyogi Park
WHAT IT IS: Those in the know mourned the closure of Rocket Chicken shop in Shimokitazawa last year, but lucky for us their food truck is still getting around. Most recently, the truck set up shop at Yoyogi Park for Ocean Peoples 18 Festival. Their legendary fried chicken is out of this world, and can be customized with a variety of delectable sauces.
WHERE IT IS: Yoyogi Park hosts events nearly every weekend, featuring a wide variety of food trucks, shopping, and musical guests, to name a few. Bring a blanket, some cold brews, and have yourself a food truck picnic.
For the most recent Rocket Chicken truck sightings, check the blog at lineblog.me/rctky
Que Bom at M-Square
WHAT IT IS: When looking for good meat in Tokyo, go Brazilian. Churrascaria Que Bom in Asakusa, a subsidiary of Brazilian Sportswear Company Athleta, also has a food truck that serves some of the tastiest steak, chicken, and sausage you can get on four wheels. Wash it down with an ice cold Guarana Antarctica for an authentic Brazilian experience.
WHERE IT IS: Que Bom is at Kojimachi’s M-Square every Friday. This small office nook near Sophia University and Yotsuya Station has a few different trucks serving lunch every weekday.
Tokyo Paella (and other food trucks) at Tokyo International Forum
WHAT IT IS: Tokyo Paella is a legend among food trucks, and has become known as the best paella truck in Japan. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself joining a long line of paella fans when you visit. The truck operates every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and has a constantly changing menu of tapas, soups, and of course paella.
WHERE IT IS: You can get your paella fix every Friday at Tokyo International Forum in Yurakucho. This is a sprawling business complex that has an indoor mall and event space, restaurants, and a pavilion with plenty of food trucks that change daily.
Jinenjotei at Farmer’s Market @ UNU
WHAT IT IS: Jinenjo is another term for tororo or Japanese grated yam. This food cart is a farm-to-table operation run by Yamanashi-based Shizen no Minori farms. Here you can sample generous portions of their freshly grown tororo as well as other vegetarian friendly fare such as jinenjoyaki, a vegetarian yam patty similar to okonomiyaki.
WHERE IT IS: The Farmer’s Market at United Nations University in Shibuya is run every weekend, and features a sizeable flea market with clothes, music, and food. There are numerous food vendors, as well as fresh produce and other natural goods. It is a welcome change from the hustle and bustle just outside the campus gates.
