Contrary to what Kim assumed (if you watch my stories, you know) Robot Restaurant is not where the locals hang out. It’s tailor made for tourists seeking an outlandish, vibrant, straight up wacky Japanese experience. In short, it’s a tourist trap. But it’s a tourist trap worth experiencing, even just once.

First things first, this is a show that happens to offer food. It’s not an actual restaurant. Eat before or after, and just go for the show and maybe a drink or some popcorn.

Outfit details:
Sister Jane smock dress
Converse sneakers

I probably wouldn’t have returned for a second visit, but since Kim had never been and it’s right up her alley — neon lights! excess! somehow ABBA plays a role! — I made sure we got tickets. Since we were there at the height of Sakura season, most shows were sold out and we ended up with a daytime experience.

This particular show was different than the first one I saw, but the energy and charming weirdness was the same. It’s just…wild! It reminds me of a live action Power Rangers: The Musical (probably not a thing, but maybe I’m onto something).

You’ll laugh, you’ll wonder why a Ninja Turtle is involved, you’ll smile from ear to ear and leave Robot Restaurant thinking, “What in the heck just happened?!” That’s the point. Just book it. Let me know if you’ve ever visited Robot Restaurant!

Robot Restaurant
Address: Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukicho, 1 Chome−7−7 新宿ロボットビル B2F
https://www.shinjuku-robot.com/pc/
Cost: ¥8,000