The Ryogoku area is famous for chanko nabe, a rich hot pot stew traditionally eaten by sumo wrestlers. After experiencing a tournament at Kokugikan, these top-rated restaurants offer the perfect dining finale to your sumo day.
🥇 #1 Chanko Kirishima Ryogoku Edo NOREN
Best Overall Chanko Experience
Rating: ⭐ 4.2/5 (453 reviews)
Location: Ryogoku Edo NOREN complex
Hours: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM (Sat/Sun)
Price Range: Moderate
Located in the atmospheric Ryogoku Edo NOREN complex, this chanko specialist offers excellent portions with thoughtful side dishes served before the main hot pot arrives. The tourist-friendly atmosphere and convenient location make it ideal for first-time visitors to Ryogoku.
💡 Why Choose Kirishima
- ✅ Accepts dinner reservations
- ✅ Atmospheric Edo-period themed complex
- ✅ Authentic chanko prepared by former wrestlers
- ✅ Walking distance from Kokugikan
🥈 #2 Tsukishima Monja Moheji Ryogoku
Best Interactive Dining
Rating: ⭐ 4.7/5 (3,869 reviews)
Specialty: Monjayaki & Okonomiyaki
Hours: Open until 11:00 PM
Price Range: ¥2,000–3,000
For an interactive dining experience, this monjayaki and okonomiyaki specialist lets you cook your meal at the table. With an impressive 4.7 rating and nearly 4,000 reviews, it's a fun, casual alternative to traditional chanko with exceptional food quality.
What to Order
- Monjayaki - Tokyo's signature runny pan-fried batter dish
- Okonomiyaki - Savory Japanese pancake with your choice of fillings
- Toppings - Seafood, pork, cheese, mochi options available
🥉 #3 Tonkatsu Hasegawa
Sumo Area Institution
Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 (1,794 reviews)
Specialty: Tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet)
Hours: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Price Range: ¥2,000–3,000
This traditional tonkatsu specialist is a Ryogoku institution with nearly 1,800 reviews and a cozy atmosphere. The perfectly crispy breaded pork cutlets are served with shredded cabbage, rice, and miso soup.
🍲 #4 Gottsuan Sakaba Ryōgoku
Creative Chanko with Modern Touches
Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5
Hours: From 5:00 PM
Price Range: ¥5,000–6,000
This creative chanko restaurant combines traditional sumo cuisine with modern innovations. The curry and croquettes receive particular praise, and all-you-can-drink options make it ideal for group celebrations.
Signature Dishes
- Innovative chanko variations - Creative takes on the classic hot pot
- Chanko curry - Unique fusion of sumo stew and Japanese curry
- Chanko croquettes - Crispy outside, creamy chanko filling
- All-you-can-drink - Beer, sake, and shochu options
🍗 #5 Ryogoku Taiko Yakitori Speciality Shop
Best for Yakitori Lovers
Rating: ⭐ 4.1/5
Hours: From 4:00 PM
Specialty: Grilled chicken skewers (yakitori)
For yakitori enthusiasts, this highly-rated grilled chicken specialist opens early at 4:00 PM. The omakase (chef's choice) is particularly praised, featuring premium cuts and seasonal preparations.
Why Visit Taiko
- All-you-can-drink options available
- Casual atmosphere ideal for groups
- Early opening - perfect for early dinner (4:00 PM)
- Omakase recommended - let the chef select the best cuts
✅ Pro Tips for Dinner in Ryogoku
Make Reservations
All recommended restaurants accept reservations, which is highly advisable for dinner service on weekends and tournament days. Book 3-7 days in advance.
Payment Options
Many offer English-friendly payment options including credit cards and PayPay. Some traditional restaurants may be cash-only.
Dinner Timing
Most restaurants open around 5:00 PM. If arriving after tournament (ends ~6:15 PM), expect 6:30-7:00 PM crowds. See our tournament timeline.
Combine Experiences
For an immersive sumo culture day, combine dinner with a visit to Ryogoku Kokugikan or the nearby Edo-Tokyo Museum.