TOKYO -- In food-obsessed Japan, new restaurant trends are constantly emerging. While fads like the bubble-tea boom of 2019 fizzled out almost as quickly as they appeared, enduring trends such as Korean fried chicken and karaage (Japanese-style fried chicken) continue to thrive. Last year witnessed the rise of onigiri (rice balls) specialty shops, low-alcohol tipples and high-end ramen. It was also marked by restaurant price hikes due to rising fuel and food costs, along with reservation wars driven by a surge in inbound tourism -- trends that show no signs of fading.
Life
What's cooking in Japan's food scene
Trends to watch, from female sushi chefs to 'destination restaurants'
Sustainability, local sourcing and plant-based foods are themes that are increasingly informing Japan's restaurant culture. (Nikkei montage/Source photos by Virtu, Maz Tokyo and Florilege)
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