Have you ever heard of Kuramae, often called “Tokyo’s Brooklyn”?
With easy access to central Tokyo and located along the Sumida River, Kuramae is known as a hub of craftsmanship, where old warehouses and buildings have been beautifully renovated into creative spaces for artisans and makers.
Although it’s within walking distance of Asakusa, Kuramae has a slightly calmer atmosphere, dotted with independent cafes and craft shops. You can also enjoy lovely views along the riverside.
In Kuramae, you’ll find Inf Sumida River Italian, an authentic Italian restaurant led by a chef who honed his skills in Italy. The restaurant’s concept is “Traveling Italian Cuisine”, offering regional specialties from across Italy.
Even on the day I visited, the restaurant was nearly full.
When you hear “a popular Italian restaurant in Kuramae,” you might wonder:
“Where exactly is Kuramae — and can I walk there from Asakusa?”
“Do I need a reservation?”
“Do they have an English menu?”
But don’t worry.
It’s within walking distance from Asakusa, and an English menu is available.
Above all, the view of the Sumida River beyond the windows gently eases even the nervousness of a first visit.
In this article, I’ll guide you as your “friend in Asakusa,” sharing tips on how to fully enjoy your experience at Inf Sumida River Italian and easing any concerns you might have!
Goma's Tips for the Perfect Inf Sumida River Italian Experience
Even if it’s your first visit, keep these three points in mind to make sure your experience goes smoothly.
1. Yes, You Can Walk from Asakusa — Here’s How to Get There
The restaurant is conveniently located between Asakusa and Kuramae, making it easy to access from either area.
It’s about a 4-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Toei Asakusa Line, and around 5 minutes on foot from Kuramae Station on the Toei Oedo Line. From Kaminarimon Gate, it takes roughly 10 minutes by foot, so you can easily stop by while exploring Asakusa.
Located along the Sumida River, the restaurant makes the most of its riverside setting. From the second and third floors, you can enjoy beautiful views of the river and Tokyo Skytree.
The building has three floors, and the third floor features terrace seating. On a sunny day, the terrace is highly recommended — you can relax and enjoy your meal with a refreshing river breeze and a stunning view.
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| Seating on the Second Floor |
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| Terrace Seats on the Third Floor |
2. A Reservation Is Highly Recommended
If you’re planning to visit on a weekend or during dinner time, making a reservation in advance is highly recommended.
This is one of the more popular Italian restaurants in Kuramae, and when I visited, it was almost fully booked. On sunny days especially, the terrace seats tend to fill up first.
For weekday lunch, you might be able to walk in depending on the timing. However, availability can vary by season and time of day, so if you want to be sure of getting a table, reserving ahead of time is the safest option.
If you’re hoping for a terrace seat, or if you’re traveling on a fixed schedule, booking in advance will give you peace of mind. That way, you can simply relax, enjoy the view of the Sumida River, and take your time over a wonderful meal without worrying about waiting.
3.English Menu Available
An English menu is available.
If you ask the staff, they will kindly bring you a small stand with a QR code for the English menu. In addition to English, menus are also available in Chinese and Korean. Simply scan the code with your smartphone, and the English menu will appear instantly on your screen.
Even if you don’t speak Japanese, there’s no need to worry. You can easily place your order by pointing to the items on your phone. The process is simple and stress-free.
When traveling, it’s natural to feel a little nervous about ordering in a different language. But here, you can relax and enjoy your meal with confidence, knowing that language won’t be a barrier.
My Experience
Here’s what we ordered 👇
Scallop, anchovy & lettuce peperoncino (¥2,200)
The gentle sweetness of scallops pairs perfectly with the saltiness of anchovies, while the lettuce adds a fresh texture.
The pasta sauce strikes a delicate balance of mild acidity and creaminess, coating the pasta with the rich, concentrated flavor of duck.
The natural sweetness of cabbage pairs beautifully with the savory saltiness of bacon. Rich and creamy, yet surprisingly light on the palate.
The restaurant’s signature Bolognese uses extra-thick noodles from the long-established noodle maker Asakusa Kaikaro — reportedly seven times thicker than regular pasta!
The sauce is made with tomatoes and aromatic vegetables like celery and onions, giving it a light and refreshing flavor. A distinct hint of cinnamon and its natural sweetness add depth and warmth. It pairs beautifully with the meat, making each bite deeply satisfying.
It’s the perfect spot for a day when you want to enjoy both the view and the food ☺️
Basic information
🏠 Name:
📍 2-1-13 Komagata, Taito-ku, Tokyo
🕘 Mon–Fri: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM / 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM
🕘 Sat: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
🕘 Sun & Holidays: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
💤 Closed on Irregular days
🚃 5-minute walk from Kuramae Station (Toei Oedo Line)
💴 Cash or PayPay
If you want to see more delicious food in Asakusa, be sure to check out my Instagram too📸✨Just click the icon below!
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