Explore Tokyo’s 8 Renowned Sushi Restaurants and 11 More Accessible Sushi Spots

11 Top Quality Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo Where You Can Secure Reservations

Udatsu Sushi

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

Sushi meets art in an art gallery-like ambience at Udatsu Sushi, where you can enjoy a traditional, authentic Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi experience. All the sushi ingredients are of exceptional quality: rice is specially grown for Udatsu Sushi by a trusted farmer, rice vinegar is crafted by blending three types of vinegar, and toppings are sourced daily from the market. Chef Udatsu prioritizes visiting the actual production sites, and his visit to a farm in Hiroshima inspired the innovative herb roll, which features completely pesticide-free herbs and white fish.

At the heart of the artistic setting is a counter table crafted from 150-year-old cypress wood. What better place to indulge in the finest sushi than in the sophisticated and artistic atmosphere of Udatsu Sushi?

Sushi Masashi

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

Just like your journey through Japan, the omakase course at Sushi Masashi tells a complete story with a beginning, middle, and end. This culinary adventure allows you to experience a wide range of temperatures, textures, and levels of fattiness in the sushi toppings, providing an engaging dining experience. Chef Masashi's innovative creativity shines in every dish, with the popular tuna sukiyaki being a highlight. Since opening in 2020, Sushi Masashi has earned one Michelin star each year from 2022 to 2024.

The owner-chef, Masashi Yamaguchi, honed his skills at the sushi restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, before becoming the head chef at Sushi Wakon located in a luxury hotel in Kyoto. Embark on a meticulously planned culinary journey with this talented sushi chef.

Ichiu

Selected Restaurant

Michelin Guide, 2024

Immerse yourself in Ichiu's omakase course, which features top-quality Japanese dishes and Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi. The experience begins with exceptional side dishes and then transitions to sushi that tantalize your taste buds and captivates your eyes.

You can also indulge in delectable desserts made with seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a memorable meal in Ichiu's elegant Japanese setting, where warm hospitality and thoughtfully selected Japanese sake ensure an unforgettable dining experience.

Edomaezushi SushiTsuu

The standout dish at Edomaezushi Sushi Tsu is jukusei sushi (matured sushi), a delicacy that has enchanted countless sushi enthusiasts. While Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi typically ages fish for 2 or 3 days to enhance its umami, jukusei sushi takes it a step further, allowing the fish to mature for an extended period. Utilizing salt or seaweed as preservatives and monitoring the fish in cool temperatures, this method results in exceptional flavors. Among their highly praised offerings is the tuna sushi, matured for over two weeks, where the harmony between fish and rice becomes simply flawless.

The owner-chef, Takahashi, boasts a background at renowned Japanese restaurants and international experience before delving into the realm of sushi. With his exceptional hospitality and irresistible smile, Edomaezushi Sushi Tsu promises to be the perfect choice for any occasion.

Nishiazabu Taku

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

The chef customizes every dish to suit the situation and preferences of the diners, making Nishiazabu Taku a rare find that perfectly matches your style. With experience even in Hawaii, the owner-chef curates impeccable omakase courses using the finest seasonal ingredients, while the sommelier expertly pairs each dish with the perfect wine or Japanese sake. Embracing the Japanese ethos of cherishing each encounter as a once-in-a-lifetime moment, the chef's improvised courses add a touch of authenticity to your dining experience. The modern Japanese ambiance of the interior further enhances your enjoyment of the meal.

Tachiguizushi Akira Shimbashi

Tachiguizushi, or standing sushi counters, are a hallmark of dining at Akira. Founded by the owner of Sushi Shoryu, a prestigious fine dining spot nestled in Shirokane Takanawa, one of Japan's most upscale residential areas, Akira was born from a vision of offering authentic sushi in a relaxed setting at an accessible price point. Renowned for serving top-notch cuisine akin to that of Sushi Shoryu at an affordable price, Akira's locations in Shimbashi and Tsukiji are perennially bustling with eager patrons.

Edomae Sushi Hanabusa

One Star

Michelin Guide, 2024

Indulge in the exquisite offerings of a one-Michelin-starred establishment specializing in traditional Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi. Hanabusa not only procures seafood directly from Tokyo Bay but also scours Japan for the finest seasonal ingredients. The chef's meticulous approach to fish storage and umami enhancement is fundamental to Edomae sushi perfection. Take, for example, the zuke maguro—marinated tuna—that undergoes a painstaking 1 to 2.5-month preparation process. And don't miss the tekkamaki, thin tuna sushi rolls, served as the final flourish in the course, guaranteed to leave you craving for more.

Takumi Sushi Owana

Selected Restaurant

Michelin Guide, 2024

After over a decade of training at the esteemed Sushi Sho restaurant, the owner-chef ventured to establish Takumi Sushi Owana in 2017. Known for his meticulous approach, he personally selects each ingredient, ensuring they meet his exacting standards. With great care, he crafts the vinegared rice using both red and white vinegar, choosing the one that best complements the topping. He adjusts the sourness to perfection, depending on the temperature. From ingredient selection to the final presentation, the chef executes each step with utmost professionalism.

The omakase course features a creative option, where select dishes are infused with smoky flavors using either straw or cherry blossom chips. Their impressive collection of Japanese sake adds to the dining experience. Recognizing that many upscale sushi venues offer only counter seating, the private room accommodating up to six guests becomes an ideal option for families seeking a more intimate setting.

Kagurazaka Sushi Kokoro

The owner-chef's journey to success is truly remarkable. After honing his skills for over a decade at the prestigious Ginza Kyubey, he further refined his craft as a private chef abroad, eventually opening Sushi Kokoro in 2012. Known for his signature style, the chef meticulously balances each ingredient and carefully considers its aging process. With a dedication to excellence, he personally visits the market daily, calculating precise aging times and selecting only the finest fish available. Drawing from his international experience, the chef ensures that every aspect of customer service exudes warmth and hospitality. Additionally, the website is available in English, catering to a diverse clientele.

Sushi Murayama Kousetsubesho

Assuming the mantle of a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant, the main Sushi Murayama, located in the same building, the second store, Sushi Murayama Kousetsubessyo, offers sushi and creative side dishes of the same caliber. The owner is the first disciple of Daisaku Maruyama, who trained at a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, Sushi Yoshitake, and later opened Sushi Murayama.

The omakase course begins with creatively crafted side dishes similar to those at the main store and then transitions to sushi made with premium ingredients sourced directly from production areas and trusted vendors in the Toyosu market in Tokyo. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring the freshest offerings year-round.

Sushi Kimura

1. A Japanese famous gourmet site Sushi TOKYO Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2022

After a decade of experience at a sushi restaurant in New York and training at prestigious establishments in Tokyo, Mr. Kimura realized his dream of opening his own restaurant. Sourcing ingredients directly from Aomori, where he grew up, he prides himself on using exceptionally fresh fish, a rarity for Edomae sushi. With meticulous care, he hand-selects the finest rice and expertly combines red vinegar and salt to craft the perfect vinegared rice. Showcasing his fondness for ingredients from his home region, the à la carte dishes are simply outstanding. The luxurious interior features ample wooden accents, while the counter seats offer diners an up-close view of the chef's remarkable skills in action.

The Most Renowned 8 Sushi Restaurants in Japan and the World

Ginza Kyubey

1. MICHELIN (2008)：★
2. A Japanese famous gourmet site Sushi TOKYO Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021

Ranked second among restaurants worldwide on La Liste, a selection of 1,000 restaurants curated by experts in France, Ginza Kyubey stands out as a top recommendation for international visitors seeking an authentic sushi experience. Established in 1935, this renowned venue has acquired the admiration of Japanese celebrities, including famous writers and prime ministers. It is also credited with inventing the "gunkanmaki" or "warship roll," featuring seaweed wrapped around the rice to efficiently hold toppings like sea urchin and salmon roe, which are otherwise challenging to keep atop the rice.

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SUKIYABASHI JIRO

1. MICHELIN (2007 - 2019)：★★★
2. A Japanese famous gourmet site TOKYO Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,2022

Sukiyabashi Jiro is a name known both in Japan and around the world, having held three Michelin stars for over a decade. Owner Jiro Ono achieved recognition in the Guinness World Records in 2019 as the "oldest head chef of a three Michelin star restaurant." The restaurant gained further global attention with the release of a documentary film in America, attracting celebrity guests such as Hollywood stars and former President Barack Obama, who dined with the Japanese prime minister at the time.

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Sushi Yoshitake

1. MICHELIN(2012 - 2023)：★★★
2. MICHELIN (2024)：★★
3. A Japanese famous gourmet site TOKYO Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,2022

Renowned as one of Ginza's most esteemed sushi establishments in a district boasting over 400 sushi restaurants, Sushi Yoshitake beckons discerning diners to embark on a culinary journey into the heart of exquisite Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi. The restaurant has held three Michelin stars continuously since 2012. Under the skilled hands of owner-chef Masahiro Yoshitake, each piece of sushi is meticulously crafted to achieve the perfect balance of rice, topping, and wasabi, akin to creating a sublime artwork. Notably, Masahiro Yoshitake also oversees Sushi Shikon in Hong Kong, another three Michelin-starred establishment renowned for its excellence over the years.

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Sushi Sho Yotsuya

1. A Japanese famous gourmet site TOKYO Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,2022

Known as one of the hardest restaurants to secure reservations at, both in Japan and overseas, Sushi Sho Yotsuya boasts skilled chefs who craft authentic and innovative sushi delicacies. Notably, this establishment pioneered a distinctive omakase style that offers side dishes to start the dining experience followed by nigiri sushi. Founded by the legendary chef Keiji Nakazawa in 1989, Sushi Sho Yotsuya has nurtured many up-and-coming sushi chefs, several of whom have gone on to earn Michelin stars. Additionally, a branch of this renowned restaurant has been opened inside The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach in Hawaii.

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Sushi Namba Hibiya

1. A Japanese famous gourmet site Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,2022

In the pursuit of the ultimate sushi experience, the sushi served at Sushi Namba Hibiya is meticulously crafted, paying close attention to every detail. This includes elements such as the firm texture, sweetness, saltiness, and rich flavor of the rice, as well as the perfect cut, size, and thickness of the toppings. What sets the chef apart is his precise calibration of the temperature of each sushi item indicated on the menu. For example, the lean meat of tuna is served at a lower temperature compared to fatty tuna, which is offered at a relatively higher temperature.

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Nihonbashi Kakigaracho Sugita

1. MICHELIN (2017 - 21)：★
2. MICHELIN (2022)：★★

Among Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi restaurants in Tokyo, Nihonbashi Kakigarasho Sugita stands out as one of the most sought-after and challenging places to secure a reservation at. This sushi restaurant, beloved by chefs and food enthusiasts alike, combines the highest quality ingredients sourced daily from the market with exceptional technique rooted in Edomae sushi tradition. The result is unparalleled sushi crafted with care and integrity. The restaurant is also dedicated to promoting sushi culture worldwide, attracting repeat patrons from abroad who book their reservations months in advance.

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Sushi Arai

1. MICHELIN (2020)：★
2. A Japanese famous gourmet site Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,2022

With a concept centered on creating sushi you’ll never tire of, Chef Arai, who honed his skills at the renowned Kyubey and Sushi Sho, crafts genuine Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi at Sushi Arai. The signature dish of this establishment is tuna, for which the chef meticulously selects the cut and type of rice based on its condition. In the clean, sophisticated ambiance with a cypress counter, the chef provides warm and personalized hospitality, ensuring every customer leaves happy. The young chef forges his own style in Ginza, the most competitive area for sushi restaurants.

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Hakkoku

1. A Japanese famous gourmet site TOKYO Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,2022

Chef Hiroyuki Sato previously served as the head chef at Sushi Tokami, where he earned the venue one Michelin star before passing it on to his apprentice and opening Hakkoku in 2018. Hakkoku means "black and white" in Japanese, and as the name suggests, the interior features a stylish black-and-white design with striking beauty. Chef Sato is known for his meticulous selection of maguro (tuna), sourcing it from the most renowned wholesaler at the market. The omakase course at Hakkoku begins with "tossaki temaki," a hand-rolled sushi made with a flavorful cut of tuna from the base of its head, which boasts a strong umami flavor.

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