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Taito

Hatsuogawa is renowned for its authentic unagi dishes, prepared using a 100-year-old recipe. The restaurant offers a traditional Japanese dining experience with a cozy atmosphere. While some patrons have noted that reservations are required and the establishment operates on a cash-only basis, the quality of the food and the unique preparation methods are highly praised.

Hatsuogawa: A Timeless Taste of Tokyo's Unagi Tradition in Taito City, Japan 

Nestled in the vibrant district of Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo, Hatsuogawa offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that food lovers and cultural explorers will cherish. Known for its exquisite unagi (eel) dishes crafted using a 100-year-old family recipe, this cozy restaurant invites guests to savor traditional flavors in an intimate setting. From the moment you step inside, the warm ambiance and the rich aromas of grilled eel promise a memorable culinary adventure that is deeply rooted in local heritage.

Hatsuogawa stands out for its dedication to preserving traditional Japanese cooking techniques. The unagi is carefully prepared and grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that regulars describe as "fabulous" and truly unforgettable. The restaurant is a family-run gem, often featuring the father as the skilled chef and other family members tending to the welcoming service, enhancing the authenticity and homely atmosphere.

Guests should expect a cozy space filled with traditional Japanese decor and a menu focused exclusively on eel dishes. While the portions are modest, the quality and taste justify the culinary experience. The restaurant operates on a cash-only basis, and due to limited seating, reservations are strongly recommended. Although there is no English menu available, the staff are generally accommodating to non-Japanese speakers, making it a welcoming spot for adventurous travelers and food enthusiasts eager to explore authentic Tokyo flavors.

 are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

 is cash only; credit cards are not accepted.

 is not available; basic Japanese or a local companion is helpful.

 are Monday to Saturday from 12:00 to 14:00 for lunch and 17:00 to 20:00 for dinner, closed Wednesdays, and Sundays open for dinner only.

Hatsuogawa enjoys a largely positive reputation among locals and travelers who appreciate its dedication to authentic unagi and a traditional dining atmosphere. Patrons praise the friendly family-run service and the exceptional quality of the eel dishes. However, some visitors note that service can be slow due to careful preparation and the intimate size of the establishment. While a few reviews mention that the restaurant is less accommodating to foreigners, many find it a charming culinary treasure worth the visit, especially for those seeking genuine Japanese flavors off the typical tourist path.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Taito City, Tokyo, **Hatsuogawa** is a culinary gem that transports diners into the world of traditional Japanese cuisine. This intimate restaurant specializes in **Unagi**, or grilled eel, offering a unique dining experience that captivates both locals and travelers alike. The moment you step inside, the warm ambiance envelops you, enhanced by the rich aromas of grilled fish and the soft glow of paper lanterns. Hatsuogawa is not just a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of Japan’s culinary traditions.

At Hatsuogawa, the star of the menu is undoubtedly the **Unagi Don**, a beautifully presented dish featuring tender, smoky eel glazed with a sweet soy sauce, served over a steaming bed of rice. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a lingering umami flavor that is simply unforgettable. Pair this with a refreshing glass of **sake**, and you have a match made in culinary heaven. Another standout is the **Unagi Kabayaki**, where the eel is expertly grilled to perfection, showcasing the skill and dedication of the chefs who have honed their craft over generations.

Conveniently located at 2-chōme-8-4 Kaminarimon, Hatsuogawa is just a stone's throw away from the iconic **Senso-ji Temple**, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the vibrant streets of Asakusa. After indulging in a delightful meal, visitors can stroll through the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, where traditional snacks and souvenirs await. The area is rich in culture and history, offering a perfect blend of culinary and sightseeing experiences.

Authentic Unagi dishes prepared with traditional techniques.

A cozy, family-run atmosphere that welcomes diners with warmth.

A prime location near Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.

Hatsuogawa is a family-run establishment where the passion for food is palpable. The chef, often referred to as the heart of the restaurant, has been perfecting the art of Unagi grilling for decades, ensuring that each dish is not only a meal but a testament to culinary tradition. This dedication is reflected in the meticulous preparation and the use of high-quality ingredients, making every visit a memorable experience.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler seeking an authentic taste of Japan, Hatsuogawa promises a dining experience that is both delightful and enriching. Don’t miss the chance to savor the exquisite Unagi dishes that have made this restaurant a beloved spot in Tokyo. Come and immerse yourself in the flavors of tradition—your table awaits!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNINnFHdEt3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2QVFa8eOGGAR3kcZkZIP0Vw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNINnFHdEt3EAE

Hidden gem off the beaten path. Traditional, friendly and delicious bowl of Unagi and rice.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfcHBqbVJnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2QVFa8eOGGAR3kcZkZIP0Vw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfcHBqbVJnEAE

I dont know why this place gets such bad review on the service. I speak ZERO japanese and was treated okay. Food was excellent, but it takes imo too long to cook eventhough the place wasn't busy at all. It took at least 30min for my dish to come out. From the look of it, it looks like a family run business, dad is the chef, mom is the waitress, and i think there's a son or 2 sons.. helping them

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2dl9LYUNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2QVFa8eOGGAR3kcZkZIP0Vw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2dl9LYUNBEAE

Please trust the reviews that are repeatedly telling you that foreigners are not welcome or entertained at this place. They won’t even share availability. I don’t mind if a place doesn’t like foreigners but I prefer if a place self identifies as such and does not end up in prestigious places like the Michelin list.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURnM1B1WmdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2QVFa8eOGGAR3kcZkZIP0Vw/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURnM1B1WmdBRRAB

Not satisfied :( Very small portions made probably for a 10 year old kid. The flavor of the eel was fine but nothing special. The menu is a joke nothing but eel. Very small business so they force you to order 1 per person no sharing. Very overpriced $30 per person. I don't understand the hype? The old couple running the place were warm to Japanese people but not welcoming for foriegner. She had a bad attitude.  She did know a good amount of English though.  Very cluttered place full of Japanese decor.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURxOGVLWVhBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ2QVFa8eOGGAR3kcZkZIP0Vw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURxOGVLWVhBEAE

What a fabulous Unagi here! I literally just about fell off my chair. I couldn't believe how tender they were!

I love having Sake while waiting unagi. One of best way to spend weekends.

Hatsuogawa: Traditional Unagi Restaurant in Taito City, Tokyo

Established in 1907, Hatsuogawa is a historic eel restaurant in Asakusa, Tokyo, known for its traditional unagi dishes prepared with a 100-year-old recipe.

Authentic unagi dishes prepared using a 100-year-old recipe, offering a traditional Japanese dining experience.

Unadon (Grilled Eel over Rice)

Unagi Liver Sashimi

White Grilled Eel

Grilled Eel with Beer

Hatsuogawa Menu

Nestled in the heart of Kaminarimon, Tokyo, Hatsuogawa offers an exquisite authentic Japanese dining experience centered on unagi, or freshwater eel, prepared using a 100-year-old family recipe. This traditional eatery delights with a focused menu that showcases the rich flavors and tender textures of expertly grilled eel, inviting gourmets and food adventurers to savor a taste of heritage.

Begin your meal with the delicately prepared Unagi Liver Sashimi. This starter features fresh eel liver served with traditional soy sauce and a touch of wasabi, offering a unique and refined taste that perfectly primes the palate for the rich mains to follow.

Hatsuogawa’s mains showcase the true essence of traditional unagi cuisine through several expertly crafted dishes. The signature Unadon features grilled freshwater eel glazed with a special tare sauce, served over a bed of steamed rice — a comforting and flavorful classic. For those seeking a purer taste, the White Grilled Eel highlights the eel’s natural flavor enhanced simply with salt, capturing a minimalist Japanese grilling perfection. Another highlight is the Grilled Eel with Beer, a distinctive dish where the eel is grilled with a blend of beer and special sauce, delivering a rich, slightly malty depth that complements the tender eel beautifully.

While Hatsuogawa does not serve desserts, the savory adventure offered here is a perfect standalone experience celebrating the art of eel preparation and traditional Japanese flavors.

Complement your meal with Hatsuogawa’s carefully selected beverage offerings, including beer, which pairs exceptionally well with their grilled eel dishes. The unique Grilled Eel with Beer special infuses the dish with a subtle maltiness, creating a memorable flavor fusion that elevates the dining experience.

 that preserves authentic Japanese unagi flavors.

 that highlights eel’s tenderness and flavor nuances.

 perfectly suited for eel aficionados and curious food lovers alike.

Savor the authentic flavors of Japan at Hatsuogawa in Taito City, Tokyo! Explore a culinary adventure and delight your taste buds today!

Hatsuogawa Restaurant in Taito City, Tokyo - Authentic Taste

Taito City Municipality

Hatsuogawa

A traditional dish featuring grilled eel glazed with a special tare sauce, served over steamed rice.

Fresh eel liver served raw with soy sauce and wasabi, offering a unique delicacy.

Eel grilled with salt, highlighting the natural flavor without the tare sauce.

A special preparation where eel is grilled with beer, imparting a unique taste.

Discover Hatsuogawa Tokyo's Authentic Unagi Experience 

Nestled in the vibrant Kaminarimon district of Taito City, Tokyo, Hatsuogawa is a cherished culinary treasure for lovers of traditional Japanese cuisine. This intimate, family-run restaurant specializes in 

, showcasing the finest grilled eel served over perfectly steamed rice and other unique eel delicacies. With a warm, authentic atmosphere and a menu that honors time-tested recipes, Hatsuogawa offers a true taste of Tokyo's culinary heritage.

Hatsuogawa’s menu is a dedicated celebration of eel, crafted with care and authenticity. Foodies visiting Tokyo will appreciate the following standouts, each representing a distinct way to experience unagi:

A traditional dish featuring tender grilled eel glazed with a special tare sauce, served atop steaming white rice. Priced around 3000 JPY, it's a classic that captures the essence of Japanese comfort food.

A daring delicacy for adventurous palates, this fresh eel liver is served raw with soy sauce and wasabi, priced at about 1500 JPY, delivering a unique texture and flavor profile.

For a purist’s delight, this eel is grilled with salt only, letting the natural flavors shine through without the tare sauce. This refined preparation costs around 3500 JPY.

A rare and intriguing choice, the eel here is grilled with beer, imparting a distinct taste profile that eel enthusiasts will find fascinating. Priced at approximately 3800 JPY.

This quaint eatery is renowned for its authentic, traditional vibe, reflecting a family-run charm that has garnered both praise and candid reviews. Diners enjoy a cozy ambiance filled with classic Japanese decor, serviced by a dedicated family team that carefully prepares each dish. While service can be unhurried—reflecting the meticulous cooking process—this ensures every bite is cooked to perfection.

Hatsuogawa accepts cash only, embraces reservations to manage its intimate seating, and offers dine-in and takeout options (though no delivery). The restaurant does not serve coffee, cocktails, or dessert, focusing solely on delivering the best unagi experience possible. Note that seating is limited and it's better suited for solo diners or couples rather than large groups or families with children.

Due to the small size and popularity, booking ahead ensures you get a spot to enjoy your unagi feast without a long wait.

Hatsuogawa is a cash-only establishment, so make sure to have enough yen on hand for your meal.

Expect some wait time as the dishes are cooked fresh and carefully; the reward is a flavorful, authentic meal worth every minute.

Tokyo

Savor authentic Unadon at Hatsuogawa, a historic eatery in Taito City. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere and traditional unagi dishes crafted with a century-old recipe!

Unadon Delights at Hatsuogawa | Taito, Tokyo

Discover top tips for dining at Hatsuogawa in Tokyo! Enjoy unique unagi dishes and immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese experience. Make your reservation now!

Explore Hatsuogawa: Taito's Unagi Gem

Learn the rich history of Hatsuogawa in Taito, Tokyo, an eel restaurant famous for its traditional unagi dishes. Taste the legacy of a 100-year-old recipe!

Hatsuogawa: Traditional Unagi Restaurant in Taito City, Tokyo

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