The Best Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo Michelin: A Guide to Finding the Ultimate Sushi Experience 🍣

Introduction

It is no secret that Tokyo is considered the sushi capital of the world, with some of the world’s most renowned sushi chefs calling the city home. The Michelin Guide, one of the most trusted restaurant guides, has awarded many outstanding sushi restaurants in Tokyo with its coveted stars. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to go to experience the best sushi in Tokyo. In this article, we will highlight the top sushi restaurants in Tokyo Michelin, providing you with a guide to finding the ultimate sushi experience.

The History of Sushi in Tokyo

Sushi has a long history in Tokyo dating back to the Edo period in the early 1800s. It was initially street food sold by fish vendors who would wrap fish in vinegar rice to preserve it for longer. Over time, sushi evolved into an art form, with chefs carefully selecting the freshest and highest quality ingredients to create the perfect sushi experience.

What is the Michelin Guide?

The Michelin Guide is a restaurant guide that originated in France in the early 1900s, designed to help travelers find high-quality dining options. Today, the Michelin Guide is considered the gold standard of restaurant guides, and its stars are highly coveted by chefs around the world. Tokyo has the most Michelin-starred restaurants globally, with many of them being sushi restaurants.

What Makes a Great Sushi Restaurant?

Several factors contribute to what makes a great sushi restaurant. First and foremost is the quality and freshness of the fish. Sushi chefs in Tokyo Michelin restaurants use only the highest quality fish, often imported from around the world. Another critical factor is the skill and expertise of the sushi chef. The best sushi restaurants in Tokyo have chefs who have trained for many years, often under a master sushi chef. Finally, the ambiance of the restaurant and the attention to detail in the presentation of the food also play a role in creating the ultimate sushi experience.

The Best Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo Michelin

When it comes to finding the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo Michelin, there are several options to choose from. Below, we have listed the top sushi restaurants in Tokyo Michelin, providing you with a guide to the ultimate sushi experience.

Sukiyabashi Jiro 🍣🍣🍣

Overview

Sukiyabashi Jiro is perhaps the most famous sushi restaurant in Tokyo and has been awarded three Michelin stars. The restaurant is located in the basement of an office building in Ginza and is widely considered to be one of the best sushi restaurants in the world.

Menu

The restaurant serves a fixed menu of around 20 pieces of sushi, each carefully crafted by the master chef Jiro Ono. The menu changes regularly depending on the availability of the highest quality fish. The restaurant also serves traditional Japanese sake to accompany the meal.

Ambiance

The restaurant is small, with only ten seats at the counter. The decor is simple and understated, allowing the focus to be on the sushi.

Sushi Saito 🍣🍣🍣

Overview

Sushi Saito is another Tokyo Michelin three-star sushi restaurant, located in the Ark Hills South Tower in Roppongi. The restaurant is known for its exceptional quality of fish and the skill of its sushi chefs.

Menu

Sushi Saito serves a fixed menu of around 20 pieces of sushi, with each piece showcasing the quality of the fish. The restaurant also has a sake sommelier who can guide you through the extensive sake menu.

Ambiance

The restaurant is small, with only eight seats at the counter. The decor is modern and minimalist, with natural wood tones creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Mizutani 🍣🍣🍣

Overview

Mizutani is a three-star sushi restaurant located in the basement of a building in Ginza. The restaurant is known for its exceptional quality of fish and the skill of its chef, Hiroyuki Mizutani.

Menu

The restaurant serves a fixed menu of around 20 pieces of sushi, with each piece showcasing the quality of the fish. The restaurant also has an extensive sake menu, with a sake sommelier on hand to help you choose the perfect pairing.

Ambiance

The restaurant is small, with only seven seats at the counter. The decor is traditional, with dark wood tones and soft lighting creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

FAQs

Q: How much does it cost to eat at a Tokyo Michelin-starred sushi restaurant?

A: The cost of eating at a Tokyo Michelin-starred sushi restaurant can vary widely, with prices ranging from around ¥15,000 to ¥50,000 or more per person.

Q: How do I make a reservation at a Tokyo Michelin-starred sushi restaurant?

A: Reservations at Tokyo Michelin-starred sushi restaurants can be challenging to make, with many requiring reservations months in advance. It is best to use a trusted travel agent or booking service to secure a reservation.

Q: Is it acceptable to use soy sauce with sushi?

A: In Japan, it is common to eat sushi without soy sauce, as the sushi chefs have already seasoned the sushi perfectly. However, if you prefer to use soy sauce, it is acceptable to do so.

Q: Can I request specific types of fish at a sushi restaurant?

A: It is generally not recommended to request specific types of fish at a sushi restaurant, as the chef has carefully curated the menu based on the availability of the highest quality fish. However, if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, it is acceptable to inform the chef before ordering.

Q: What is the difference between sushi and sashimi?

A: Sushi is a dish of vinegared rice topped with various ingredients, including fish, vegetables, and egg, while sashimi is thinly sliced raw fish served without rice.

Q: Can I order sushi to go?

A: Many sushi restaurants in Tokyo do not offer takeout sushi, as the sushi is best enjoyed fresh and immediately after being prepared. However, some restaurants do offer takeout options for specific items.

Q: Is it customary to tip at sushi restaurants in Japan?

A: No, it is not customary to tip at sushi restaurants in Japan, as the service charge is usually included in the price of the meal.

Q: Can I bring my children to a Tokyo Michelin-starred sushi restaurant?

A: It is generally not recommended to bring children to Tokyo Michelin-starred sushi restaurants, as the atmosphere is often quiet and serene, and the focus is on the sushi.

Q: What is the dress code for a Tokyo Michelin-starred sushi restaurant?

A: The dress code for a Tokyo Michelin-starred sushi restaurant is usually smart casual, with no athletic wear or shorts allowed.

Q: What is the best time to eat at a sushi restaurant in Tokyo?

A: The best time to eat at a sushi restaurant in Tokyo is typically during lunchtime or early evening, as the fish is often freshest during these times.

Q: How long does a typical sushi meal last?

A: A typical sushi meal at a Tokyo Michelin-starred restaurant can last anywhere from one to three hours, depending on the number of courses and the pace of the meal.

Q: Can I bring my own sake to a sushi restaurant in Tokyo?

A: It is generally not recommended to bring your own sake to a sushi restaurant in Tokyo, as the restaurant will usually have an extensive sake menu to choose from.

Q: How many Michelin-starred sushi restaurants are there in Tokyo?

A: As of 2021, there are over 100 Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo, with many of them being sushi restaurants.

Q: What is the difference between nigiri and maki sushi?

A: Nigiri sushi is a type of sushi where a small ball of seasoned rice is topped with a piece of fish, while maki sushi is a type of sushi where fish and other ingredients are rolled in seaweed and rice.

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo Michelin, there are several options to choose from. Whether you are looking for a traditional sushi experience or a more modern take on sushi, these restaurants are sure to impress. Remember to book well in advance, as reservations can be challenging to secure.

So why not treat yourself