Sushiya
Down a dark, narrow alley—one that makes you wonder if you’ve got the right place—the door opens into a tiny, eight-seat counter that allows diners to watch the fine movements of 31-year-old up-and-coming chef Takao Ishiyama. The restaurant’s name, Sushiya, translates as “sushi shop.” While the name is simple, the sushi is not. Bright flavors from chives, shiso (an Asian herb in the mint family), and zest of yuzu (a Japanese citrus fruit similar to lime) are unexpectedly paired with the seafood he bought at Tsukiji fish market that morning. And unlike other popular sushi shops in Tokyo, Sushiya hasn’t been overrun with foreigners—yet.
More Restaurants in Tokyo
Yuu
When ordering at Yuu, the adventurous should say “omakase” and leave it to the chef to select what's skewered and roasted over Japanese binchotan charcoal.
Nihonbashi Yukari
Third-generation talent and Iron Chef champion Kimio Nonaga serves up an oft-changing, haute rendition of traditional kappo cuisine.
Sasuga Soba
This understated Michelin-starred gem prepares outstanding 100-percent-soba noodles that are rolled and cut by hand each day.
Shinjuku Takano Fruit Parlor
Fruit is revered in Japan, and the menu here demonstrates how it can be flawless, aromatic, and juicy.
Kagari
The creamiest bowls of chicken ramen are made at this shop with two branches in Ginza.
Tenmatsu
The offerings at this tempura shop go far beyond the usual fried shrimp and mushrooms.
Kotaro
The friendly izakaya has an open kitchen where chef Kotaro Hayashi serves small bites to pair with rare sakes.
Tsuruya Yoshinobu
Sit at a counter and watch as the craftsman creates a seasonal sweet and complements it with a cup of matcha.
Tonkatsu Katsukura
The breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets at this restaurant in Takashimaya department store represent the best of Japanese comfort food.