I'm in the midst of planning a trip to Tokyo and Kyoto in October, and while I have a few specific restaurants I want to go to, for the bulk of our days I'll probably need to be more flexible, since I don't have a tight enough itinerary that I'll know exactly where I am or when we'll feel like sitting down to eat.
I've heard a bunch of things from various sources that highly rated Google reviews can be a bit of a trap since Google Maps is used a bit more by tourists, and that locals tend to be harsher critics as well, which biases Maps to super touristy spots.
When you're in Japan and looking for a decent meal, what are your tips for finding a good place in the moment? I'm not necessarily looking for Michelin stars, just decent food, preferably authentic. I do have kids (11 and 8) but it doesn't need to be particularly kid friendly, just not unwelcoming to kids. Any signs of a good place just walking down the street, or tips when looking on Maps or other review sites to suss out solid, decent food that isn't super tourist-focused?
by enki-42