Why You Should Visit the Basement of Department Stores When You’re Hungry?

If you are hungry in Tokyo, don’t look up at the skyscrapers; look down. Go to any major department store (like Isetan, Takashimaya, or Mitsukoshi) and take the escalator to the basement level (B1). You will arrive at “Depachika” (Depa = Department store, Chika = Basement), a sprawling food hall that looks like a jewelry box of cuisine.

The variety is overwhelming. You will find glass cases filled with beautifully crafted Bento boxes, yakitori, fresh sushi, French pastries, and $100 melons perfectly wrapped as gifts. Unlike a typical food court, these are high-end delicatessens. Staff often offer free samples, shouting energetic greetings to customers. It is bustling, loud, and incredibly appetizing.

Depachika is the best place to grab a high-quality dinner without a reservation. Buy a Wagyu beef bento or a gourmet salad, then head back to your hotel room or a nearby park for a luxury picnic. Also, if you go just before closing time (around 7:30 PM), many items get discounted by 20% to 50%. Look for the staff putting “sticker labels” on the boxes!

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