Kushikatsu Tanaka Daikanyama

Kushikatsu – ingredients dipped in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until crisp and golden – were invented in the early 1900s and grew in popularity during the wartime era when workers sought fast and affordable meals. Kushikatsu Tanaka in Daikanyama is a great place to sample this cheap and cheerful dish, with plenty to satisfy vegetarians, seafood- and meat-lovers alike. The crisp lotus root is a perennial favourite, as are the juicy shiitake mushrooms and tender prawns, all for just ¥150-280 a stick – or go straight for the ¥740 deal, which offers five selected sticks. Keep an eye out for seasonal offerings; we love the yellowtail and apple in the past winter. On each table you’ll find Tanaka’s signature barbecue sauce – but remember to follow the golden rule: no double-dipping.