Sushi, a culinary icon of Japan, holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers around the world. You may have visited renowned sushi establishments, but have you experienced the latest trends shaping Tokyo’s sushi scene in 2024? Join us as we explore the city’s most sought-after sushi destinations, where tradition meets innovation.
About Sushi
Sushi, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, is a harmonious blend of vinegared rice (shari) and various toppings (neta), primarily seafood. Chefs often serve it with wasabi, and it comes in a delightful variety of forms, each with its own unique history and preparation techniques.
What is Sushi?
The term “sushi” covers a wide variety of dishes. Nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), oshi (pressed sushi), chirashi (scattered sushi), and inari (sushi rice in fried tofu pouches) are among the most popular. While seafood such as tuna, salmon, and shrimp are common toppings, sushi chefs also incorporate other ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and eggs to create innovative flavor combinations.
The history of sushi dates back over a thousand years, originating in Southeast Asia as a method of preserving fish. Over time, sushi evolved, and by the Edo period (1603-1867), it had become a popular fast food among the common people. Today, people around the world enjoy sushi, with countless variations and regional specialties.
The Evolution of Sushi
The earliest form of sushi, known as narezushi, consisted of fermenting fish with rice and salt. People would throw away the rice and eat only the fermented fish. This method of preservation allowed people to enjoy fish for longer periods of time, especially in regions where fresh seafood was scarce.
Over time, the process evolved and Japanese began to eat the rice along with the fish. In the Muromachi period (1336-1573), “namanare” emerged, with partially fermented fish and rice that people could eat together. This marked a significant change in the preparation and consumption of sushi.
During the Edo period, sushi underwent another transformation with the introduction of vinegar to flavor the rice. This innovation enhanced the flavor and shortened the preparation time, making sushi more accessible. The invention of nigiri sushi, in which chefs place a slice of fish on hand-pressed vinegared rice, further revolutionized the sushi scene. This paved the way for the diverse and creative sushi we enjoy today.
The Tabelog Award
“The Tabelog Award is an annual restaurant award. It is decided by regular diners, not food critics. The top restaurants for 2023 were selected from around 850,000 restaurants across the country. They received the highest ratings from Tabelog users and were awarded ‘Gold’, ‘Silver’, ‘Bronze’ or ‘Category Award’. As the food industry continues to recover, we celebrate the chefs who are passionate about creating delicious food and the people who love to eat it.
For more information about this Award, click here.
456 restaurants were nominated. Among them, here are 6 sushi restaurants in Tokyo that won “Gold” for “The Tabelog Award 2024”:
Mitani
This is the restaurant’s 8th consecutive year winning the award and 6th consecutive year winning “Gold”.
“A must-try for sushi lovers. The sushi toppings and rice paired with rare sake is amazing. Mr. Mitani always strives to make the best sushi possible. The original tableware is also beautiful. This is one of my top 3 sushi restaurants.” – 味のおざ平さん
Namba
![Interior Namba](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/namba-1.jpg)
This is the restaurant’s 6th consecutive year winning the award and 5th consecutive year winning “Gold”.
“A special restaurant that cares about the temperature of the toppings and rice. The sushi is made at the perfect time, so the fat melts in your mouth. The chef is humble even though the restaurant is famous.” (みうっちょさん)
Higashiazabu Amamoto
This is the restaurant’s 8th consecutive year winning the award and 7th consecutive year winning “Gold”.
“This is top-notch sushi. The rare toppings that can only be found here are impressive. The flavors are delicate and deep. Thank you very much for the meal.” (KENタロウさん)
Sushi Arai
This is the restaurant’s 8th consecutive year winning the award and 6th time winning “Gold”.
“The tuna at Arai is amazing! All the toppings are delicious. I had never eaten whale before, but it was delicious at Arai! The scallop grilled with seaweed was the best I’ve ever had. Just thinking about it makes me want to eat it again.”(enaちゃんさん)
Nihombashi Kakigaracho Sugita
This restaurant has won “Gold” for 8 consecutive years.
“The first sashimi, Matsukawa flounder and kawahagi, showed me that Sugita is the best. Everything tastes great. It’s been over a year since my last visit, but the rice feels nostalgic. Sugita is truly wonderful. I want to go 2 or 3 times a year.” (サプレマシーさん)
Sushi Saito
![Interior Sushi Saito](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/sushi-saito-1.jpg)
This restaurant has won “Gold” for 8 consecutive years.
“Sushi Saito is one of the hardest sushi restaurants to get a reservation. The appetizers are carefully prepared. The nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) is amazing. The sushi chef was young but talented. The sushi was excellent. I look forward to his future and want to support him.” (HiroEndさん)
出典: https://magazine.tabelog.com/articles/346595/2
Tokyo’s Must-Try Sushi 2024: Beyond the Awards
Here are some other sushi restaurants in Tokyo worth trying. They may not be Tabelog Award winners, but they are highly regarded by locals and sushi aficionados for their quality and unique offerings.
Hirō Ishizaka
![Hiro Ishizaka Sushi dish](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/jpg-7.jpg)
Hirō Ishizaka is a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant in Tokyo. The chef, Ishizaka-san, is known for his unique take on traditional sushi. He starts the meal with medium fat tuna, followed by a sea urchin comparison. His shiitake mushroom sushi is a must try. He also has a special way of serving botan shrimp and dashimaki tamago (egg omelet). In the summer, he uses cucumbers grown by his parents for kappa maki (cucumber roll). The meal ends with soy sauce ice cream, a unique dessert that only a sushi restaurant can offer.
The warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with the delicious and innovative sushi, makes Hirō Ishizaka a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It’s no wonder that the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star just one year after opening.
Hinazushi Nishi-Ginza: All-You-Can-Eat Luxury Sushi
![View from outside](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_01-2.jpg)
![View inside](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_02-2.jpg)
![Sushi set](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_03-2.jpg)
![Sushi set](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_04-2.jpg)
If you’re looking for an unforgettable all-you-can-eat sushi experience, Hinazushi Nishi-Ginza is the place to be! Located on the second floor of the Nishi-Ginza Department Store, this gem offers a truly unique experience featuring high-quality sushi crafted by skilled chefs. With over 60 varieties of fresh fish and seafood to choose from, including a monthly special “limited edition” nigiri, there’s something for every sushi lover. The bright and spacious interior provides the perfect setting for a relaxing and enjoyable sushi experience.
Sushi Tou: Traditional Japanese Ambiance and Exquisite Sushi
![Inside of Sushi Tou](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-2-2.jpg)
![Sushi in Sushi Tou](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-3-2.jpg)
![Sushi and drink](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-4-2.jpg)
![Wine in sushi Tou](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-5-2.jpg)
![Sushi with soy sauce](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-6-2.jpg)
![View outside](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-7-2.jpg)
![Crab meat Salmon egg](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-8-2.jpg)
![View inside of Sushi Tou](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image-9-2.jpg)
写真出典: 鮨十公式サイト
Nestled in the Nishi-Azabu district, Sushi Tou is a renovated Japanese house that exudes a calm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is renowned for its exceptional sushi, crafted by skilled artisans who meticulously pair each piece of neta (topping) with the perfect shari (vinegared rice). Sushi Tou is committed to creating the perfect nigiri, and they use a combination of red vinegar and rice vinegar, along with two types of nikiri soy sauce, to make it happen.
Hiroya Tokyo-mae: Innovative Fusion Sushi
![Sushi of Hiroya Tokyo-mae](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/jpg-1.jpg)
Opened in March 2024 near Daimon Station, Hiroya Tokyo-mae is a new venture by renowned sushi chef Takuya Motohashi, known for his acclaimed restaurant “Sushi Hiroya.” This innovative establishment breaks the mold of traditional sushi, incorporating French, Italian, and Chinese influences to create a unique fusion cuisine. The intimate 10-seat counter offers a front-row view of the chefs’ skillful artistry. The omakase course, featuring 7 pieces of sushi and 7 innovative dishes, showcases Motohashi’s creativity and culinary expertise.
Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit: All-You-Can-Eat Domestic Bluefin Tuna
![Sushi selection course](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/shshi_1-370x300-1-2.jpg)
You will enjoy their chef’s selection course. They also accept additional à la carte orders, so please feel free to ask.
![Sea urchin and bluefin tuna Yamaken dog](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1S7A0807-370x300-2.jpg)
You can also order your favorite nigiri or kappo cuisine à la carte during or after the course.
Photo: Sea urchin and bluefin tuna Yamaken dog 3,300 yen
![Example of a dessert plate](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1S7A0878-370x300-2.jpg)
We also cater for special occasions.
Photo: Example of a dessert plate (1 plate per group)
出典: https://sushi-yamaken-shinjuku.com/
Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit is a modern sushi restaurant with a focus on “evolving sushi.” While respecting tradition, they strive to create innovative dishes that appeal to all senses. Their signature offering is an all-you-can-eat course of domestic bluefin tuna nigiri, alongside a variety of other sushi and cooked dishes. The warm, stylish interior, featuring wood accents and soft lighting, creates a welcoming atmosphere for a memorable dining experience.
Sushi Sho Saito: Exquisite Nigiri and Seasonal Ingredients
![Sushi in Shushi sho saito](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/jpg-2.jpg)
![Sushi in Shushi sho saito](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/jpg-4.jpg)
![Sushi in Shushi sho saito](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/jpg-3.jpg)
![Crab dish](https://www.foodinjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/jpg-5.jpg)
Located in Akasaka, Sushi Sho Saito is a renowned sushi restaurant known for its meticulous craftsmanship and exquisite nigiri. The restaurant follows the “Sushi Sho style,” where beautifully prepared nigiri and seasonal appetizers are served alternately. The intimate counter seating, featuring sunken kotatsu-style tables, allows guests to relax and fully immerse themselves in the culinary experience.
Takeaway
Tokyo’s sushi scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, techniques, and traditions that will blow your mind! In 2024, these five restaurants are leading the charge, each offering a unique take on this beloved Japanese cuisine. From all-you-can-eat extravaganzas to intimate experiences focused on seasonal delicacies, Tokyo’s sushi scene has something for everyone! So, get ready for a culinary adventure as you embark on a journey to discover the city’s sushi gems! Let the incredible sushi masters of Tokyo delight your senses and leave you wanting more!
Click here to read more about Sushi or see below!
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