Best Sushi in Tokyo: Places Worth Exploring
Tokyo, Japan’s buzzing capital, is famous for its incredible food, and sushi steals the spotlight when it comes to big flavours.
Whether you’re diving into it for the first time or a sushi pro, loads of cool spots won’t break the bank.
In this Tokyo travel guide, we’ve got all the deets on the city’s awesome sushi scene.
Ready to explore Tokyo’s sushi wonders? Here’s the ultimate list of the best sushi in Tokyo:
- Sushi M
- Sugita
- Sushi-Ya
- Sushi Yuu
- Sushi Zai
- Ginza Sushi Ojima
- Sushisho Masa
- Hakkoku
- Sushi Kanesaka
- Taku
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This Aoyama restaurant, known as one of Tokyo’s top sushi spots, is a collaboration between seasoned sushi chef Michimasa Nakamura and sommelier Yoshinobu Kimura, who brings a decade of expertise as the former head sommelier at the two-Michelin-starred Narisawa in Tokyo.
As co-owner and sommelier, Yoshinobu Kimura envisioned pairing Tokyo’s finest sushi with an exquisite selection of sake and wine.
This vision comes to life at Sushi M.
Beyond its delicious sushi offerings, the focus naturally shifts to wine at Sushi M.
Yoshinobu meticulously curates an extensive cellar with over 400 European and local bottles, ensuring a diverse selection for every palate.
Location: アットホームスクエア 2F, 4 Chome-24-8 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062, Japan (map)
Directions: A 7-minute walk from Omote-Sando Station
Approx. Cost: $$
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Chef/owner Takaaki Sugita brings a distinctive culinary experience to the city, seamlessly blending Michelin-starred artistry with classic sushi-making.
Guided by Sugita’s expertise, this Tokyo gem combines tradition and innovation.
Each dish, from the sardine and chive maki roll to the seared golden eye snapper nigiri, showcases the chef’s unwavering dedication to Edomae sushi heritage.
A standout signature is the must-try monkfish liver, skillfully dipped in soy sauce and wasabi, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to freshness, classic craftsmanship, and deep reverence for culinary tradition.
Location: Japan, 〒105-0004 Tokyo, Minato City, Shinbashi, 5 Chome−13−10 VORT新橋NEX 1F (map)
Directions: A 7-minute walk from Shimbashi Station
Approx. Cost: $$$
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Tucked away in the narrow lanes of Ginza district, Sushi-Ya (which directly translates to “sushi shop”) stands as a hidden gem.
Renowned for serving the finest sushi in Ginza, this spot has become a favourite among foodies and bloggers alike.
The exquisite sushi, featuring highlights like Spanish mackerel and ikura, paired with exceptional wines, creates a memorable dining experience.
What sets this place apart is the quality and generosity of portions provided to guests, accompanied by an extensive tasting menu.
Location: Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 6 Chome−4−16, Hanatsubaki Bldg, 2階 (map)
Directions: A 3-minute walk from Ginza Station
Approx. Cost: $$$
Indulge in the extraordinary at Sushi Yuu, where Michelin-starred magic awaits with the sensational omakase tasting menu.
Brace yourself for a culinary journey featuring an exquisite array of sushi and a symphony of carefully curated small dishes.
From the captivating red snapper to the delightful mineoka dofu and the enticing purine maki, each bite is a flavor-packed adventure.
Every dish is a masterpiece, crafted from the freshest ingredients that promise to whisk you away on a gastronomic delight!
Location: Japan, 〒106-0031 Tokyo, Minato City, Nishiazabu, 1 Chome−4−15 寿司勇 (map)
Directions: 8-minute walk from Nogizaka Station
Approx. Cost: $$$$
Sushi Zai, the sister restaurant of the Michelin-starred Sushi Yuu, stands as one of the top sushi spots in Tokyo, offering expertly crafted dishes by seasoned artisanal chefs dedicated to the time-honoured Edomae tradition.
Every morning, the staff at Sushi Zai procures seasonal fish from Toyosu Fish Market, ensuring that patrons are consistently treated to the finest quality.
For a must-try dish, try the tender meat and enticing aroma of kelp in the ‘kasugo (young sea bream)’ dish, perfectly paired with red vinegar sushi rice.
Location: Japan, 〒150-0012 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Hiroo, 5 Chome−3−13 Barbizon86 5F (map)
Directions: 2-minute walk from Hiro-o Station
Approx. Cost: $$$
Located in the vibrant district of Ginza, Ginza Sushi Ojima has been serving top-notch sushi for over 10 years.
This place stands out despite being in a hub of high-end restaurants with its focus on combining tradition and innovation.
Known for quality, the chefs pick fresh ingredients daily, ensuring each dish features the best seasonal produce.
As for highlights on the menu, try sea urchin nigiri sushi, tuna nigiri sushi, and tasty abalone soup – you won’t regret it.
Location: Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 7 Chome−8−1, Ginza Bairin Bldg., ８階 (map)
Directions: 6-minute walk from Ginza Station
Approx. Cost: $$$
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If you are a true blue sushi lover, make time in your trip and flock to Sushisho Masa, a classy 7-seater spot for its three-hour tasting menu, featuring up to a whopping 40 sushi pieces and tasty small bites.
Found near Tokyo’s busy Roppongi district, the restaurant has served guests for an impressive 15 years.
What’s also remarkable is its location – hidden in the basement along Roppongi-dori, the restaurant offers an elegant counter space with fuss-free minimalist decor.
However, the real treat is the front-row view of the chef’s skills during the dining experience.
Location: 4 Chome−1−15 Nishiazabu, Minato City (map)
Directions: Nearest Station – Tokyo Station, 15 mins. drive
Approx. Cost: $$$
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Hakkoku has a subtle charm, with its wooden sushi bar quietly taking centre stage.
The omakase experience here is like a culinary adventure, showcasing 30 individual pieces of sushi – just nigiri and maki – each carefully presented as a standalone masterpiece.
Sushi chef Hiroyuki Sato guides this culinary journey, curating an intimate experience for only six guests behind the sushi counter at Hakkoku.
At the heart of Sato’s sushi is the rice, which he considers the essence of his creations. Enhanced with a blend of two red vinegars, the rice has a beautiful shine and a rich aroma, bringing each grain to the peak of culinary excellence.
Location: Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 6 Chome−7−6 ラペビル ３F (map)
Directions: 4-minute walk from Ginza Station
Approx. Cost: $$$
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In the world of sushi, Chef Shinji Kanesaka not only dazzles diners but also weaves his thoughts about the sea, fish markets, and artisanal craftsmanship into his culinary creations at the two Michelin-starred Sushi Kanesaka.
Mentored by Takashi Saito of Sushi Saito, a regular feature of Asia’s 50 Best lists, Kanesaka handpicks the daily catch at Tsukiji Fish Market, turning sushi preparation into a real art form.
Brace yourself for a culinary adventure with treats like sweet amaebi shrimp crowned with uni, yellowtail slices with daikon radish ribbons, and toro tuna.
Location: Japan, 〒100-0005 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Marunouchi, 1 Chome−1−1 パレスホテル東京 6階 (map)
Directions: 7-minute walk from Tokyo Station
Approx. Cost: $$$
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Tucked away in the quaint lanes of fashionable Nishi-Azabu, this Michelin-starred sushi bar is a discovery for sushi and wine lovers in Tokyo.
With a history of over a decade, Nishiazabu Taku has mastered the delicate art of pairing sushi with wine, creating a harmonious fusion of raw fish and fermented grapes that will keep you coming back for more.
Dive right into the omakase course, featuring approximately 20 items alternating between appetisers and sushi, guaranteeing a thoroughly satisfying culinary expedition.
Location: Japan, 〒106-0031 Tokyo, Minato City, Nishiazabu, 2 Chome−11−5 カパルア西麻布 1階 (map)
Directions: 9-minute walk from Nogizaka Station
Approx. Cost: $$$
Beyond Sushi in Tokyo: Other Cool Things to Try
Think sushi is the only thing to try in Tokyo? Well, think again. Here are other cool activities in the capital besides chowing down on excellent sushi.
Immerse yourself in Japanese cuisine through a vibrant sushi workshop and a traditional kimono tea ceremony led by your local host, Yukiko. Craft four wholesome varieties of sushi in the comfort of Yukiko’s private home, guided by her expertise as a certified vegetable sommelier.
Embark on a three-hour food tour to explore the culinary delights of Shibuya, a district renowned for its cultural and fashion influence. Discover the gourmet area, where you’ll savor dishes mostly enjoyed by locals, such as Wagyu beef, Kansai Okonomiyaki, the uniquely Japanese mashup “Kare Pan,” assorted sushi, and traditional desserts.
Join a certified sake sommelier as your guide through Shinjuku’s Nishi Ogikubo, who also owns a contemporary sake bar in Tokyo. Immerse yourself in a two-hour sake-tasting session, where you’ll unravel the secrets of Japan’s most famous alcoholic beverage. Explore the intricate brewing techniques, delve into the beverage’s history, and discover its myriad varieties at one of Tokyo’s best sake-tasting sessions.
Commonly Asked Questions
Are there affordable sushi options in Tokyo?
Tokyo boasts a vibrant sushi culture, offering numerous fantastic spots to explore. For a delicious yet budget-friendly experience, consider visiting Mawaru Sushi Zanmai Tsukiji branch or Himawari Sushi.
Are there any Michelin-starred sushi restaurants in Tokyo?
If you’re in search of Michelin-starred sushi experiences, consider Sugita, Sushi Yuu, or Sushi Kanesaka.
What is the average cost of a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant in the city?
For a full meal at a three Michelin-starred restaurant in Tokyo, the average cost can reach up to USD 350 per person.
