The Best Sushi Restaurants In Ginza Tokyo: A Comprehensive Guide

Japan is known worldwide for its delicious sushi, and there’s no better place to try it than in Tokyo’s upscale neighborhood of Ginza. From traditional sushi bars to modern twists on the classic dish, this area is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in the world. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top sushi spots in Ginza and what makes them stand out.

The Classic: Sushi Mizutani 🍣

When it comes to traditional sushi, Sushi Mizutani is the place to go. Chef Hachiro Mizutani has been serving his signature style of sushi for over 50 years, and his dedication to quality and technique is evident in every bite. The restaurant only seats eight people at a time, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The Innovative: Sushi Kanesaka 🍣

Sushi Kanesaka is a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant that offers a unique take on the classic dish. Chef Shinji Kanesaka combines traditional techniques with modern ingredients to create innovative and unexpected flavors. The restaurant has a sleek and modern atmosphere, providing a different experience from the traditional sushi bars of Ginza.

The All-You-Can-Eat: Ganso Zushi 🍣

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers quality sushi, Ganso Zushi is the place to go. This all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant offers a wide variety of nigiri and rolls, all at a fixed price. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it a great spot for families or groups.

The Upscale: Sushi Yoshitake 🍣

Sushi Yoshitake is a luxurious sushi restaurant that offers an elevated dining experience. Chef Masahiro Yoshitake carefully selects his ingredients and focuses on the balance of flavors in each dish. The restaurant only seats up to seven guests at a time, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

The Fusion: Sushidokoro Kiraku 🍣

Sushidokoro Kiraku blends traditional Japanese sushi with modern flavors and techniques. Chef Hiroshi Ando creates unique and creative dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. The restaurant has a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for a fun night out.

The Classic with a Twist: Sushi Arai 🍣

Sushi Arai offers traditional sushi with a modern twist. Chef Yuichi Arai combines classic techniques with unexpected flavors and textures, resulting in a unique dining experience. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic night out.

The Hidden Gem: Sushi Takumi 🍣

If you’re looking for a sushi restaurant that’s off the beaten path, Sushi Takumi is the perfect spot. Tucked away in a quiet alley, this restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients. Chef Takumi Okamoto serves a variety of sushi and sashimi, with a focus on simplicity and quality.

The Omakase Experience: Sushi Saito 🍣

Sushi Saito is one of the most famous sushi restaurants in the world, and for good reason. Chef Takashi Saito is known for his omakase-style dining, where he personally selects and prepares each dish for his guests. The restaurant only seats 10 people at a time, ensuring an exclusive and personalized experience.

The Artistic: Kyubey 🍣

Kyubey is a sushi restaurant known for its artistic presentation and attention to detail. Chef Kenjiro ‘Shimakawa’ Hashida creates unique and visually stunning dishes that are almost too beautiful to eat. The restaurant has a formal atmosphere, making it a great spot for a special occasion.

The Traditional: Sushi Dai 🍣

Sushi Dai is a classic sushi restaurant that’s been serving customers for over 80 years. The restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients, and its affordable prices. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, with customers lining up outside for a chance to try the sushi.

The Sustainable: Sushi Shin 🍣

Sushi Shin is a sushi restaurant that focuses on sustainability and eco-friendliness. Chef Shintaro Suzuki sources his ingredients from local and sustainable sources, ensuring that each dish is both delicious and environmentally responsible. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a quiet night out.

The Local Favorite: Sushi Iwa 🍣

Sushi Iwa is a local favorite in Ginza, known for its high-quality sushi and warm hospitality. Chef Hisayoshi Iwa uses only the freshest ingredients, and his attention to detail is evident in every dish. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual night out.

The Affordable: Nemuro Hanamaru 🍣

Nemuro Hanamaru is an affordable sushi restaurant that’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers. The restaurant serves sushi on a conveyor belt, making it a fun and interactive dining experience. The ingredients are fresh and high-quality, and the prices are reasonable.

The Family-Run: Sushi Bun 🍣

Sushi Bun is a family-run sushi restaurant that has been serving customers for over 50 years. The restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, and its affordable prices. Chef Bunji Nakamura uses only the freshest ingredients, and his dedication to quality is evident in every dish.

The Modern: Sushi Tokami 🍣

Sushi Tokami is a modern sushi restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Chef Hiroyuki Sato uses traditional techniques to create innovative and unexpected flavors, resulting in dishes that are both delicious and visually stunning. The restaurant has a sleek and modern atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends.

The Newcomer: Sushi Inomata 🍣

Sushi Inomata is a newcomer to the Ginza sushi scene, but it’s quickly gaining popularity. Chef Masaki Inomata combines traditional techniques with modern flavors, resulting in dishes that are both classic and innovative. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic night out.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit a sushi restaurant in Ginza?

The best time to visit a sushi restaurant in Ginza is during lunchtime or early evening. Many restaurants offer lunch specials or early bird discounts, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

How much should I expect to pay for sushi in Ginza?

The price of sushi in Ginza varies depending on the restaurant and the quality of the ingredients. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from 3,000 to 30,000 yen for a sushi meal.

Do I need to make a reservation?

It’s recommended to make a reservation at most sushi restaurants in Ginza, especially the more popular ones. Some restaurants may accept walk-ins, but the wait can be long during peak times.

What should I wear to a sushi restaurant in Ginza?

Most sushi restaurants in Ginza have a dress code, which typically includes business casual attire. Avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing, as it may not be appropriate for the restaurant’s atmosphere.

What is the difference between nigiri and sashimi?

Nigiri is a type of sushi that consists of a small ball of vinegared rice topped with a slice of raw fish. Sashimi, on the other hand, is just the raw fish without the rice. Both are delicious, but nigiri is more commonly served in sushi restaurants.

What is omakase-style dining?

Omakase-style dining is where the chef personally selects and prepares each dish for the guests. The chef takes into account the guest’s preferences and creates a personalized dining experience. It’s a popular way to experience high-end sushi restaurants in Japan.

Are there vegetarian options available at sushi restaurants in Ginza?

Most sushi restaurants in Ginza do not offer vegetarian options, as the focus is on seafood. However, there are a few restaurants that offer vegetarian sushi or vegetable dishes.

What is the etiquette for eating sushi in Japan?

When eating sushi in Japan, it’s important to use chopsticks or your hands (depending on the restaurant’s preference). Dip the sushi in soy sauce and eat it in one bite. Do not mix wasabi into the soy sauce, as it’s already included in the sushi.

Can I bring my own sake to a sushi restaurant in Ginza?

Some restaurants may allow you to bring your own sake, but it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand. There may be a corkage fee or other restrictions.

What is the difference between uni and ikura?

Uni is sea urchin, while ikura is salmon roe. Both are popular sushi toppings in Japan.

What is the best way to get to Ginza?