5 Best Restaurants in Mitaka and Musashino, Tokyo

Amid a sea of dilapidated buildings, thin-crust pizza specialist Garage 50 stands out for its retro camper van equipped with a brick-oven. Numerous toppings—from seafood to ham or chorizo—are available, and all the pies cost the same. The tomato sauce and wheat are imported from Italy, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the no-frills eatery. Seating is limited and all of it is outside, but takeout orders are also possible. 

This laidback joint in the lively Harmonica Yokocho neighborhood proves that an intimate sushi experience doesn’t have to be overly formal or expensive. Grab a seat at the counter, and use the picture menu to help you order, or enjoy a three-, eight-, or twelve-piece set menu—perhaps paired with nihonshu sake selected from the short beverage list. Although it doesn't serve lunch on Wednesday, Katakuchi makes up for it by offering oden (small stewed dishes) with dinner that evening.

Drop by this branch of a hipster chain for hand-dripped coffee made with house-roasted beans or lattes with artistic patterns in the foam. If you're really into your coffee, try the taster set to compare three different beans. Despite its name, this place is entirely smoke-free.

A good option for lunch, dinner, or a quick bite smack dab in the middle of Inokashira Park, Pepa Cafe Forest cooks up Thai staples such as green curry, pad Thai noodles, and tom yum kung soup. Other Southeast Asian options include fresh spring rolls, Vietnamese coffee, and bottled beer. Don't miss the tuk-tuk casually parked in the corner.

Yakitori and other skewers of chargrilled meat and vegetables are the name of the game at this hip, local-favorite izakaya. To make ordering easier, select one of the set menus, which feature multiple skewers and a few side dishes such as tofu. Beverage options include highballs, draft lager, and local nihonshu (sake).