. First time to Japan? Seems like an odd comment. Many japan chain hotels have breakfast arrangements with restaurants that are on the ground floor. Have had some fantastic breakfasts there and sure beats trying to find a "local" place and you have an infant with you. It's not going to be like SEA with kids.

Oh wait, those places are local places.

Case in point, stayed at daiwa roynet in aomori. Breakfast was at Uguisu in ground floor. Place was outstanding for dinner but the breakfast was amazing and was included in the rate.

And even if it's their own restaurant, some places do a great job with local specialties.

I think your view about hotel food in japan is a little warped.