A Guide to the Best Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo

Tokyo, the heart of Japanese culinary artistry, is a haven for sushi lovers. From prestigious Michelin-starred establishments to casual yet high-quality spots, the city offers a sushi experience to suit every palate and budget. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable omakase dinner or a quick yet satisfying bite, this guide highlights the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo, categorized by their Michelin ratings and affordability.

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Michelin-Starred Sushi Restaurants

Three Stars

Sushi Yoshitake (鮨 よしたけ)
Located in the upscale Ginza district, Sushi Yoshitake is more than just a restaurant—it’s a culinary sanctuary where traditional Edomae sushi meets modern artistry. Renowned for its meticulous preparation techniques, each piece of sushi is crafted with precision and a deep understanding of flavor profiles. The chef-owner, Masahiro Yoshitake, is celebrated for his innovative twists on classic sushi, incorporating seasonal ingredients and unique textures.

• Ambiance: The restaurant features an intimate setting with only seven seats, allowing for personal interaction with the chef and a front-row view of the sushi-making process. This exclusivity enhances the experience, creating an atmosphere of quiet elegance.
• Signature Dish: One standout is the steamed abalone with liver sauce, a dish that perfectly blends creamy and umami flavors, showcasing the chef’s creative prowess.
• Price Point: Starting at around ¥40,000 for an omakase course, Sushi Yoshitake offers an unparalleled experience that justifies its three-star status.
• Insider Tip: Reservations are not just recommended—they’re essential. Bookings can fill up months in advance due to its global acclaim.

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Two Stars

Sushi Kanesaka (鮨 かねさか)
Tucked away in Ginza, Sushi Kanesaka is synonymous with refined elegance. Chef Shinji Kanesaka, a master of Edomae sushi, takes pride in delivering a dining experience that is both luxurious and approachable. His philosophy centers on simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine without unnecessary embellishments.

• Ambiance: The restaurant exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere with a minimalist design, emphasizing the art of sushi-making. The chef’s personable approach makes even first-time diners feel at ease.
• Menu Highlights: Seasonal offerings such as fatty tuna (otoro) and silver-skinned fish (hikarimono) are served at their peak freshness. The rice, lightly seasoned with red vinegar, is a perfect complement to the fish.
• Price Point: Omakase courses start at ¥25,000, providing exceptional value for the quality and craftsmanship.
• Pro Tip: Opt for a lunch seating to enjoy the same level of excellence at a slightly lower price.

Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi (すきやばし次郎 六本木店)
Managed by Takashi Ono, the son of the legendary Jiro Ono, Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi upholds the family’s storied legacy while offering its own unique flair. This two-star establishment blends tradition with innovation, ensuring that each piece of sushi meets the exacting standards of the Ono name.

• Ambiance: Unlike the original Ginza location, this branch provides a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, making it more accessible to a wider audience while maintaining its prestige.
• What to Expect: The omakase menu unfolds like a symphony, beginning with lighter flavors like white fish (shiromi) and transitioning to richer offerings like uni (sea urchin) and anago (saltwater eel).
• Price Point: Courses begin at ¥30,000, reflecting the meticulous preparation and quality ingredients.
• Historical Note: Dining here offers a connection to the legacy of Jiro Ono, whose reputation as the world’s most famous sushi chef adds an extra layer of significance to the experience.

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One Star

Sushi Kojima (鮨 こじま)
Located in Ginza, Sushi Kojima combines artistry and ingenuity to create a dining experience that is both intimate and memorable. The chef’s unique approach involves experimenting with combinations of textures and flavors while staying true to traditional Edomae sushi principles.

• Ambiance: The restaurant’s small size ensures a personal touch, with the chef tailoring each piece to the preferences of the guests.
• Menu Highlights: Signature dishes include lightly seared fish and inventive garnishes that enhance but never overpower the natural flavors.
• Price Point: Omakase starts at approximately ¥20,000, making it a must-visit for those seeking high-quality sushi without breaking the bank.
• Recommendation: Sushi Kojima is an excellent choice for sushi enthusiasts looking to explore creativity in their meal.

Sushi Masashi (鮨 将司)
Situated in the chic Kita-Aoyama area, Sushi Masashi offers a cozy setting where the chef personally interacts with each guest. This attention to detail extends beyond the sushi, creating an overall dining experience that feels bespoke and thoughtful.

• Ambiance: The restaurant’s intimate design fosters a relaxed yet elegant environment, ideal for both seasoned sushi lovers and newcomers.
• Signature Piece: The marinated tuna (zuke) is a standout, showcasing the chef’s mastery in balancing bold flavors with delicate textures.
• Price Point: Starting at ¥18,000, it’s a relatively accessible introduction to Michelin-starred sushi in Tokyo.
• Tip: Ideal for special occasions or quieter dining experiences with a personal touch.

Sushi Ryujiro (鮨 龍次郎)
In the fashionable district of Minami-Aoyama, Sushi Ryujiro offers a refined yet welcoming approach to sushi dining. Chef Ryujiro carefully selects each ingredient, focusing on seasonal availability to deliver an authentic Edomae experience.

• Ambiance: The sleek and modern interior is balanced by the warmth of the chef’s hospitality, ensuring a memorable experience from start to finish.
• Menu Favorites: Highlights include seasonal specialties like kinmedai (golden eye snapper) and perfectly charred anago (sea eel).
• Price Point: Omakase courses start at ¥22,000, providing a harmonious blend of quality and value.
• Insider Insight: Sushi Ryujiro is perfect for diners seeking a Michelin-starred experience in a contemporary setting without the formality of older establishments.

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Affordable Sushi Options

While Tokyo has an impressive array of Michelin-starred sushi restaurants, the city is also home to an abundance of budget-friendly options that deliver excellent quality without the hefty price tag. These affordable sushi spots prove that great sushi isn’t reserved for special occasions or deep pockets.

Nemuro Hanamaru Marunouchi Oazo Branch (根室花まる 丸の内オアゾ店)
Nestled in the Marunouchi Oazo complex, Nemuro Hanamaru offers a casual dining experience that prioritizes freshness and accessibility. As a standing sushi bar, it is ideal for those seeking quick yet satisfying meals during busy Tokyo explorations.

• What Makes It Special:
  The seafood is directly sourced from Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost prefecture known for its pristine waters and premium quality fish. The menu features both classic sushi options, like maguro (tuna) and ebi (shrimp), as well as regional specialties like uni (sea urchin) and hokkigai (surf clam).

• Pricing:
  Sushi starts at just ¥120 per piece, making it one of the most affordable spots for high-quality sushi in Tokyo. A full meal can comfortably cost under ¥2,000.

• Pro Tip:
  Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long queues, as this spot is popular with locals and tourists alike.

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Nihonbashi Sushi Tsurikin
Located near Nihonbashi, Tsurikin strikes a perfect balance between affordability and portion size.

• Why It’s a Favorite:
  Unlike some other sushi spots, Tsurikin is known for its generous servings. Sushi enthusiasts rave about the thickness of the fish slices compared to the rice, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, making it a great option for families or groups.

• Menu Highlights:
  Their daily lunch sets are a standout deal, starting at ¥1,760. The sets typically include a mix of sushi, soup, and a side dish, offering excellent variety and value.

• Local Insight:
  Tsurikin has a loyal following of Tokyo residents who appreciate its consistent quality and laid-back atmosphere. It’s especially popular with office workers during lunchtime.

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Trends in Affordable Sushi Dining

• Standing Sushi Bars on the Rise:
  Standing sushi bars, like Nemuro Hanamaru, are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and affordability. This trend aligns with Tokyo’s fast-paced lifestyle, catering to locals and travelers who want a quick yet high-quality meal.

• Sustainable Sourcing:
  Many budget-friendly sushi restaurants are now focusing on sustainable seafood practices, sourcing fish responsibly while maintaining competitive prices. Consumers are increasingly drawn to businesses that balance affordability with environmental responsibility.

• Regional Collaborations:
  Restaurants like Numazu Uogashi are setting a trend by partnering with regional fishing ports to deliver unique and fresh offerings, helping promote regional seafood markets and diversify their menus.

• Tech Integration:
  Some casual sushi spots have adopted advanced ordering systems, including touch screens and multilingual menus, enhancing accessibility for international visitors.

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Conclusion

Tokyo’s sushi scene is a testament to the city’s culinary diversity and excellence. Whether indulging in a Michelin-starred omakase or enjoying a casual meal at a standing sushi bar, Tokyo promises an unforgettable experience for every sushi enthusiast. Restaurants like Nemuro Hanamaru, Tsurikin, and Numazu Uogashi Sushi demonstrate that exceptional sushi doesn’t have to come with an exorbitant price tag.

As you explore Tokyo’s sushi scene, keep these spots in mind for a truly satisfying—and wallet-friendly—experience. Find short-term apartment that are close to these sushi places to help fulfill your best sushi experience.