Where can I find squid ink and unique flavored ice cream in Shinjuku?

Where can I find squid ink and unique flavored ice cream in Shinjuku?

If you’re wandering around Shinjuku and craving something truly different, you’re in luck—this bustling Tokyo neighborhood isn’t just about towering skyscrapers and endless shopping; it also hides some quirky culinary gems. I’ve personally checked out a spot near Shinjuku Station that serves squid ink ice cream. Yes, squid ink! It’s jet black, slightly salty, and has this subtle umami flavor that’s surprisingly refreshing once you get past the initial surprise.

The shop I visited is famous among locals for these adventurous flavors, including black sesame, wasabi, and even curry ice cream alongside the squid ink. It’s a small place, usually buzzing with curious Japanese customers as well as tourists who want to taste something out of the ordinary. The ice cream costs around ¥350 (about $2.50 USD) per cone—pretty reasonable for such a specialty treat.

Japanese people don’t usually eat squid ink ice cream every day—more like a novelty or seasonal curiosity—but it’s a fun way to experience how Japan loves to experiment with food. I’d recommend trying it if you’re feeling brave and want a cool story to tell!

What if I’m not a fan of seafood flavors? Are there other unusual ice cream tastes in Shinjuku?

Absolutely! The same shop offers flavors like black sesame, which has a rich, nutty taste, and matcha (green tea), which is very popular in Japan. There’s also yuzu (a Japanese citrus), and sometimes seasonal fruit flavors like sakura (cherry blossom) or melon. These are less challenging than squid ink but still unique compared to typical Western ice creams. Japanese people often enjoy these traditional flavors as a way to connect with seasonal changes or regional specialties.

How about the texture? Is squid ink ice cream creamy or more icy?

It’s definitely creamy, like a soft-serve or gelato-style ice cream, not icy like a sorbet. The squid ink itself doesn’t change the texture much—it mostly affects the color and flavor. When I tried it, the ice cream was smooth and rich, balancing the saltiness of the ink with the sweetness of the cream. Locals appreciate this contrast because Japanese cuisine often values balance and subtlety, even in adventurous treats.

Any tips for finding this shop or similar places in Shinjuku?

The squid ink ice cream shop is tucked away in one of the small alleys near the east exit of Shinjuku Station, around the Kabukicho area. It’s easier to spot if you look for the black and white signage or ask a local vendor for directions. Since Shinjuku is huge and packed with eateries, I’d recommend visiting on a weekday afternoon when it’s less crowded. Japanese people tend to avoid long waits during peak lunch or dinner times, so you can usually get your ice cream without much hassle.

If you want to explore more unusual flavors, department store food basements (depachika) around Shinjuku like Isetan or Odakyu sometimes have limited-time stalls offering creative ice creams, especially in summer. These places are great for sampling a wide range of tastes without straying far from the station.

Can tourists realistically try squid ink ice cream outside Shinjuku?

Squid ink ice cream isn’t very common across Japan, but you can occasionally find it in coastal regions known for seafood, like Kanazawa or parts of Hokkaido. However, Shinjuku’s urban food scene is unique because it mixes traditional and modern trends. If you’re visiting only Tokyo, Shinjuku is probably your best bet. Japanese people don’t eat squid ink ice cream regularly—it’s more of a novelty to showcase culinary creativity, so it’s not always easy to find.

Why do Japanese people experiment with such unusual ice cream flavors?

It’s partly cultural curiosity and partly a love for seasonal and regional ingredients. Japan has a long tradition of incorporating local flavors into sweets and snacks. Ice cream shops here often push boundaries to attract customers and keep things interesting. For locals, trying a new flavor like squid ink ice cream is like a fun mini-adventure, especially when hanging out with friends or family. It’s less about everyday eating and more about enjoying variety and surprise within food culture.

So, when you’re in Shinjuku, don’t hesitate to hunt down that squid ink ice cream. It’s a small, unexpected window into how Japanese people enjoy mixing tradition with modern fun—and a delicious conversation starter too!