This is our review of 88 Asia (Maps), visited in January 2026.
Just a short walk from Futako-Tamagawa Station, there’s a cozy little spot you might easily miss if you’re not looking for it — 88 Asia Futako-Tamagawa (８８亞細亞 二子玉川店). Tucked away in a backstreet, this “Asian dining hall” instantly transports you from Tokyo’s urban calm to the spice-filled warmth of Bangkok or Hanoi. The concept here is simple: a neighborhood spot where everyone can enjoy the diverse comfort foods of Asia.
The Atmosphere: Chic Yet Laid-Back
When I stepped inside, I was immediately taken by the stylish yet easygoing vibe — tiled walls, a sleek metal counter, and simple chairs that blend café aesthetics with street-stall charm. Around lunchtime, the place buzzes with locals, couples, and foodies in the know. Despite its popularity (expect a small line on weekends!), the vibe stays casual and welcoming — perfect for leisurely flipping through the menu while soaking in the fragrant air of spices and herbs.
What’s more, the lunch sets here are an incredible value. For just under ¥2,000, you get a satisfying meal with an appetizer and drink. The dishes strike a beautiful balance — full of authentic Asian spice yet refined to suit Japanese palates. It’s a spot where “flavorful” doesn’t have to mean “overpowering.”
The Must-Try: Hainan Chicken Rice
If you only try one dish here, make it the Hainan Chicken Rice (海南鶏飯). I could tell it was something special the moment it arrived — soft, glossy chicken slices resting on fragrant jasmine rice, with colorful vegetables and neatly arranged sauces on the side. The aroma of ginger, herbs, and tender chicken drifts up soothingly, creating a kind of quiet, gastronomic poetry.
Each bite is a harmony of textures and flavors: plump, moist chicken, rice infused with brothy umami, and crisp vegetables for contrast. The homemade sauces add a fun layer of discovery — ginger and garlic give a sharp lift, while herb-based or tangy sauces bring freshness and zing. It’s the kind of dish that tempts you to linger over every last grain of rice. No wonder it’s one of their most-loved items on UberEats too.
The Spicy Favorite: Pappong Curry
The other showstopper at 88 Asia Futako-Tamagawa is the Pappong Curry (ぱっぽんカレー), the restaurant’s version of Thailand’s famous Poo Pad Pong Curry. As soon as the dish hits your table, the rich scent of coconut milk, fried eggs, and spices fills the air. Its vivid yellow hue, dotted with chili and herbs, is both beautiful and appetite-awakening.
The first spoonful is luxurious — creamy eggs wrapping your taste buds in gentle warmth, followed by a subtle wave of spice and chili that adds excitement without overwhelming. The flavor builds layer by layer: sweet and rich at first, then lightly spicy, finishing clean. Mix it with rice and you’ll understand why this dish inspires repeat visits. It delivers that authentic Southeast Asian kick while staying comfortingly familiar.
A Local Favorite with Global Soul
88 Asia Futako-Tamagawa was created as a casual, everyday spot — “a canteen where everyone can taste Asia.” The food direction comes from celebrated chef Shusaku Toba, and the menu features beloved staples like Toba Rice, Pho, Gapao Rice, and Hainan Chicken Rice.
Locals love it for its approachable flavors and friendly service, making it a favorite for both weekday lunches and relaxed dinner drinks. The shop even stocks a great lineup of Asian beers — each bottle with cheerful, colorful labels that make the experience all the more fun. There’s a soulfulness here that fits perfectly with Futako-Tamagawa’s easygoing energy — unpretentious, warm, and quietly adventurous.
Wrapping Up: A Taste of Asia in Everyday Tokyo
A meal at 88 Asia Futako-Tamagawa feels like a mini vacation — a quick, flavorful getaway without leaving Tokyo. The Hainan Chicken Rice soothes the heart, while the Pappong Curry adds that joyful “heat” that makes you feel alive.
When I stepped back onto the quiet street afterward, the city suddenly looked brighter, as if the flavors had tinted the day in warmer hues. For travelers craving authentic Asian-inspired cuisine or locals seeking a new lunchtime favorite, 88 Asia Futako-Tamagawa is an experience you’ll want to return to — again and again.
