Robbie Swinnerton

Robbie Swinnerton has been living, eating and writing about food in Tokyo for over 30 years. His column, Tokyo Food File, has run in The Japan Times since 1998.

For Robbie Swinnerton's latest contributions to The Japan Times, see below:

Food & Drink | TOKYO FOOD FILE Jun 5, 2021

At Dashin Soan, handmade noodles take pride of place

Expect refined ambience, a selection of elegant appetizers and top-notch soba.

Food & Drink | Destination Restaurants 2021 May 29, 2021

L’evo: Destination dining that’s worth the journey

Chef Eiji Taniguchi’s “avant-garde regional” cuisine showcases the best of Toyama Prefecture’s seasonal ingredients and local artisans.

Food & Drink | TOKYO FOOD FILE May 15, 2021

Sip, snack and stand in style at No. 502

Tucked away in suburban Setagaya Ward, No. 502 is a perfect example of the recent fashion for wine stores with bars attached — plus an innovative plant-forward menu.

Food & Drink | TOKYO FOOD FILE May 1, 2021

This laid-back tea specialist has flown under Tokyo’s radar — until now

The latest state of emergency in the capital means it’s more important than ever to stay safe, which means outdoor dining. Cue the calm, secluded Sakuu.

Food & Drink | TOKYO FOOD FILE Apr 17, 2021

Burger Police: Locking in its status as one of Tokyo’s best burgers

This offspring of the well-known Tacubo serves a gourmet burger like no other, pared back to the simplest of no-frills basics.

Food & Drink | Food Sustainability in Japan Apr 3, 2021

When life gave him olives, this Shodoshima farmer made world-class beef

Shodoshima’s Olive-fed Wagyu Beef is taking the “Wagyu Olympics” by storm, and putting the island on the gastronome’s map.

Food & Drink | TOKYO FOOD FILE Mar 20, 2021

Hakko Department: Set meals showcase the breadth of Japan’s fermented foods

It’s easy to take Japan’s wealth of fermented foods for granted. Hakko Department puts them front and center.

Food & Drink | TOKYO FOOD FILE Mar 20, 2021

BGM: Coffee shop’s small size belies big flavor

Chef Yusuke Namai of Ode turns up the volume at his hip spinoff coffee shop in Hiroo.

Food & Drink | TOKYO FOOD FILE Mar 7, 2021

Tenoshima: A master chef's tasting menu in the comfort of your own home

While Tokyo diners continue to wait for an end to the state of emergency, the city's fanciest restaurants are finding ways to survive by offering take-out meals.