Finding the best burgers in Tokyo is no easy feat when you're surrounded by choice. However, you're guaranteed to taste some outstanding burgers inspired by the country's culture, local produce, and international influence in your search.
Burgers began to expand and grow popular in Japan in the 1970s, and eventually, companies started their franchise. And for someone living in Tokyo, there are many new types of burgers and joints in Japan that aren't McDonald's, Wendy's or KFC.
Instead, think of burgers with teriyaki sauce, yuzu-glazing or even a katsu or wagyu filling throughout the city, both fast food and independent.
Not sure where to start? Check out this list that compiles the top burger joints to help you decide where to get the best burgers in Tokyo.
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Mos Burger
Often seen by locals as a rival competitor to McDonald's in Japan, Mos Burger stands out for its unique burgers and company values.
Mos stands for "Mountain, Ocean, Sun", which means the company commits to presenting a broad menu of options and having a passion for their brand that will never burn out.
In addition to the signature hamburger, Mos Burger also serves several notable options. This includes the Katsu burger (a pork or shrimp option), the Double Spicy Burger and the latest plant-based burger for vegans, the Green Teriyaki Burger.
Mos Burger
2 Chome-29-8 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo, 〒150-0043
J.S. Burgers Cafe Shinjuku
Although Journals Standard, part of the Baycrew's Group, is a fashion brand, their independent burger cafe has earned a spot on our best burgers in Tokyo list.
A brisk walk from the Shinjuku station will lead you to their independent burger place. There are so many options to choose from burgers, shakes, hot dogs and even dessert options to enjoy having.
Not only is their well known J.S Burger a must-try, but there are also exceptional ones. From the Yuzu Egg Teriyaki Burger to the Tartar Fried Fish Burger.
J.S Burgers Cafe shows they have an extensive and mouth-watering selection for any customer. The chefs cooked every burger perfectly and flavourful on all our visits, which is unusual in most Japanese burgers.
J.S. Burgers Cafe Shinjuku
4-Chome−1−7 3F, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 〒160-0022
Freshness Burger
Freshness Burger lives up to its name as the most "Fresh and Organic" Japanese burger joint on this list.
Founded in 1992, the franchise has grown to have over 180 locations around the country. Before 11 and between 11 – 3, there are sides and drinks set and then burger and drink set to select from to save money.
So what's worth ordering at Freshness Burger? There's quite a variety to pick from, like the Salsa Burger, the Garden Salad Burger and the Salty Lemon Burger that stick out. Vegetarian options are available, too, such as the Soy Teriyaki Burger or Soy Avocado Burger.
Freshness Burger
1 Chome-2-10, 1F ASK Bldg, Azabujuban, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 〒106-0045
Burger Base
Our list of best burgers in Tokyo would not be complete without mentioning Burger Base. It is a long-established place known for being located right by the railway tracks of Yoyogi station. They have been in the same spot for more than 40 years!
This joint holds an old American-style atmosphere with impeccable service of serving rich-tasting burgers to bite into it.
Some of the best burgers we recommend include Saebo Burger, Chilli Cheese Burger and a Mushroom Cheese Burger. It's one of the few local businesses that stand out in a unique setting in Central Tokyo and is definitely worth the value.
Burger Base
5 Chome-18-1 Sendagaya, Shibuya City, Tokyo 〒151-0051
Lotteria
Most of Lotteria's branches are in East Tokyo and worth going to for their wide range of burgers.
The franchise is connected to the Korean multinational corporation but was 100% founded in Tokyo in 1972. Lotteria has an extensive list of burgers to choose from, such as the infamous Shrimp Burger and the Ultimate Cheeseburger. Alternatively, try their exquisite Soft-Boiled Egg Teriyaki Burger or the Rib Sandwich.
In addition, you can select a sauce to add to your fries for a more flavoursome taste with most meals.
The franchise strives to have a range of exciting choices for its customers, such as the Mentaiko Mayo Tartar Burger or the Crazy Hot Chicken Fillet.
Lotteria
1 Chome-11-4 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo, 〒170-0013
Cafe＆Diner KHB
In the heart of Kita-Senju, one can find Cafe&Diner KHB. It's a small cafe serving a small selection of burgers and tacos since the early 2010s. In particular, all are pretty flavorful from the Salsa Cheese Burger, the Quattro Cheese Burger, the Special Foie-Gras Burger.
KHB has quite a homely atmosphere mainly because of the relationship of staff and regular locals, but anyone would fit right in when they walk through this joint's doors!
Cafe＆Diner KHB
3-Chome-36, Masuya Bldg, Senju, Adachi-ku, Tokyo, 〒120-0034
First Kitchen
Owned by Wendy's, this branch can be found in less populated districts and is one of the cheapest franchises in Tokyo.
The Bacon Egg Burger is First Kitchen's signature burger and is self-explanatory with the taste of a hearty breakfast, but just short of missing the sausage and beans.
Some of the best choices on the menu are prawn-based burgers such as the Tartar Prawn Sandwich and Classic Fried Prawn Burger to try!
First Kitchen
1 Chome-32-16 Yoyogi, Shibuya City, Tokyo, 〒151-0053
KUA'AINA
Japan loves Hawaii for many reasons, and KUA'AINA is one of them. Although it's an American brand from the Aloha state, it's a trendy burger and sandwich grill chain around Tokyo.
Since 1975, KUA'AINA has been known for its delicious quality burger filling and worth the price. It's what a burger should be. Some of their signature burgers offer chunky cheddar or mozzarella, like the Avocado Burger.
Other standouts are the Pineapple Burger and chunky sandwiches such as Mahi Mahi that bring forth that appetising taste from Hawaii that Tokyonites love. It is one of our favourite chains in Tokyo to eat at!
KUA'AINA
1 Chome-7-1 AQUA CITY ODAIBA 4F Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 〒135-0091
Best Burgers in Tokyo
- Mos Burgers
- J.S. Burgers Cafe Shinjuku
- Freshness Burger
- Burger Base
- Lotteria
- Cafe＆Diner KHB
- First Kitchen
- KUA'AINA
As you can see, Tokyo presents an impressive list of tasty burgers. So out of these independent joints and fast-food chains, which burgers are you going to go try first?
Find the best pizzerias in Tokyo next!
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