GUENPIN IKEBUKURO — Restaurant in Tokyo

If you are looking to try authentic Japanese fugu (pufferfish) cuisine in Tokyo, Genpin Fugu in Ikebukuro is an excellent choice. Conveniently located near Ikebukuro Station, the restaurant offers a calm, elegant interior with warm wooden décor, making it a relaxing place to enjoy a special meal with friends or family.

We ordered the full fugu course, which showcased the fish in multiple preparations. The thinly sliced sashimi was almost translucent, with a fresh, delicate texture. The deep-fried fugu was light and crisp on the outside while staying tender inside, without any greasiness. The hotpot (fugu nabe) brought everything together, combining the fish with seasonal vegetables and tofu in a clear, savory broth. To finish, the leftover broth was transformed into a comforting zosui (rice porridge), rich with all the flavors of the meal.

In addition to the fugu dishes, we also tried the crab course, which turned the evening into an even more indulgent seafood feast. The grilled crab was fragrant and slightly smoky, while the crab in the hotpot highlighted the natural sweetness of the meat. Paired with the fugu, the crab course added variety and balance, making the dining experience both luxurious and memorable.

Service was attentive and friendly. The staff carefully explained how to enjoy each dish, and the pacing of the meal felt just right. Prices average around ¥7,000–10,000 per person, which feels very reasonable given the quality and the chance to enjoy both fugu and crab in one sitting.

Overall, Genpin Fugu Ikebukuro is the perfect place to enjoy safe, delicious fugu, and the addition of the crab course makes it a truly unforgettable...

Omg! I found this place on Google maps while I was craving for snow crab. Yes, the price might be expensive at least for a guy who comes from Thailand. I was hesitant if I should do it here or go to the buffet one because with this price, you can go to the snow crab legs buffet too. But it was the right decision that I eat it here. The set I ordered was amazing. It’s too big for one person. Made me full like I couldn’t walk.

The staff at the restaurant are all lovely, we don’t speak each other’s language. But they make sure I feel comfortable and teach me how to eat the crab properly. So I don’t waste any meat.

Such an awesome experience. Yummy food. Good service mind. I love it. Thanks to myself for treating myself with this...

I went at 12 for their lunch menu (between 1200 and 1500, last call at 1400). Having never tried puffer fish (fugu) before, they offered a good set menu for a reasonable price at 3000¥ or 4000¥. I opted for the 4000¥ option and it left me satisfied not bloated. The puffer fish were prepared ahead of time, allowing service to be quick, at times to soon. But the service team backed each other up so no table is left waiting. Staffs are friendly and quick.

Overall, i would recommend this place for a first timer to try puffer fish. 4.5 overall score for a mid-level...