Celebrating Thanksgiving in Tokyo is not as challenging as it might seem. For those who observe the holiday, it is a time to reflect on the joys and privileges in your life and show gratitude, whether that be your loved ones or the milestones you have achieved. Likewise, the Japanese celebrate similarly, with Kinrō Kansha no Hi (Labor Thanksgiving Day) being an occasion to appreciate the labor of others in keeping our cities and homes safe and maintained. Labor Thanksgiving Day takes place each year on November 23, while Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. This year marks a rare time when the two holidays will happen on the same day.
This November offers the opportunity to celebrate in a number of ways. Take this time to cherish those who are closest to you, acknowledge the hard work of those you might take for granted, and check out GoConnect’s list of recommended restaurants in the Tokyo area to enjoy with your friends and family.
Soul Food House
Since 2015, Soul Food House has been providing a culinary experience inspired by the flavors of the American South. Located in Azabujuban, the restaurant offers a cosmopolitan ambience that is welcoming to locals and foreigners alike. Keeping true to its motto—”Welcome to a home away from home”—this restaurant is an oasis where expats can feast with a Southern twist during Thanksgiving.
This year’s menu includes some favorites from last year, such as honey smoked turkey, barbecue spare ribs, and pumpkin soup. And, added to this year’s menu are cornbread stuffing, cream corn casserole, and more! Soul Food House will accommodate vegetarians with another option upon inquiry. To accompany your meal, check out their inspired cocktail menu.
If you’d like to enjoy quintessential American comfort food and revel in a homey, yet contemporary atmosphere, be sure to reserve quickly as bookings will fill up.
Dates: November 22–24
Learn More / Reservations: here
Address: 6F Patio, 2-8-10 Azabujuban, Minato-ku
Nearest Station: Azabujuban Station
Grand Hyatt Tokyo
At the heart of Roppongi, one of Tokyo’s major epicenters for Tokyo’s nightlife, is the Grand Hyatt Tokyo, which features its own restaurant, the Oak Door. This steakhouse offers a menu of only the finest ingredients and top-quality meats.
Over Thanksgiving weekend, the Oak Door is preparing a gourmet full-course Thanksgiving dinner for you and your family. Be sure to check out the private dining room, an intimate and stylish dining experience that can accommodate up to 10 guests.
For ¥9,900 per person, guests can savor a meal that includes an appetizer, soup, main course, and dessert along with tea or coffee. All plates deliver the classic delectability of a traditional Thanksgiving meal, with servings of roast turkey, roasted carrots, cranberry sauce, and more.
Dates: November 23–25
Learn More / Reservations: here
Address: 6F, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Nearest Station: Roppongi Station
Bistro Vino Roppongi
Also situated in Roppongi, Bistro Vino Roppongi is the perfect choice if you are looking for a sophisticated atmosphere, and offers a menu of 100 different wines for your Thanksgiving feast. These vintages are paired with delicious local and international dishes cooked on the restaurant’s in-house charcoal grill.
Between November 17 and 26, Bistro Vino Roppongi will be serving their annual Thanksgiving meal. This year’s menu features an assortment of traditional holiday dishes such as stuffing, creamed spinach, cranberry sauce, and of course turkey! Children under six eat for free, and those aged 7–12 eat for half price.
Bistro Vino Roppongi will also prepare a takeaway Thanksgiving dinner with a seven-kilogram turkey for those who prefer to feast in an intimate setting with friends and family, but don’t have the time to prepare the meal themselves.
Dates: November 17–26
Learn More / Reservations: here
Address: Piramide 1F, 6-6-9 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Nearest Station: Roppongi Station
T.Y. Harbor Shinagawa
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T.Y. Harbor Shinagawa’s contemporary ambience features nautical touches that remind guests of sea life, which fits in with the restaurant’s splendid view of Tokyo Bay. While taking in the salty air, you can enjoy the brewery–restaurant’s selection of seasonal beers, artisanally brewed with natural ingredients. As meals are served in American-sized portions, each dish can be thoroughly enjoyed.
This Thanksgiving, turkey thighs are served juicy and tender, and are available from lunch to dinner. For dessert, a classic pumpkin tart will be available to round out the meal.
For those seeking to savor a traditional Thanksgiving meal with friends or family in a spacious waterside setting, this is the perfect choice!
Dates: November 23
Menu / Reservations: here
Address: 2-1-3 Higashishinagawa, Shinagawa-ku
Nearest Station: Tennōzu Isle Station
Smokehouse
Located in the trendy district of Jingumae, Smokehouse is an eatery with a classic barbeque restaurant atmosphere, offering the perfect place to kick back and relax after a busy day. Along with a menu of classic barbeque food, the restaurant brews its own lineup of impressive beers.
While basking in the rustic atmosphere that features a rustic, wood-beamed ceiling, you can enjoy Smokehouse’s menu that combines the flavors of barbeque with traditional Thanksgiving dishes. These include a BBQ turkey breast plate with cornbread, green beans, whipped yams, and cranberry relish. To finish off the meal, try the pumpkin pie garnished with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream.
Menu / Reservation: here
Address: 5-17-13 Jingumae
Nearest Station: Jingumae Station
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Jake Benjamin Roiter
