Tokyo Restaurants

  1. Daiwa Sushi

    Lines are pretty much unavoidable at Tsukiji's best and most famous sushi bar, but once you're past the noren (curtains) and your first piece of sushi hits the counter, gratification is inevitable. Unless you're comfortable ordering in Japanese, the chef's sushi sets are a good bet, which can easily be ordered by simply pointing at the picture menu. Though the staff may be too polite to say so, you're expected to eat and run so others can partake in this quintessential Tsukiji experience.

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  2. Edogin

    Fat pieces of super-fresh sashimi and sushi draw the crowds at this little hole-in-the-wall spot just up the way from Tsukiji Central Fish Market. The teishoku (定食; lunchtime set) is a steal at around ¥1000 , especially since the fish literally comes from up the street. Though there's nothing in the way of atmosphere, the locals who come here to eat provide the colour you need.

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  3. Fukuzushi

    Arguably some of Tokyo's best sushi is served at Fukuzushi's lovely wooden counter, where the chefs can satisfy your palate with conventional favourites, but could just as easily piece together something more innovative if you wish. Reservations aren't taken at this popular spot, so plan on a few minutes' wait, though it's a small inconvenience to dine on what will probably be the best sushi dinner of your life.

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  4. Hump

    Modelled after the original Hump, a famous Los Angeles sushi spot near the water in Santa Monica, this Marunouchi instalment marks the increasing popularity of California-style sushi in Tokyo. The main dining room boasts spectacular views overlooking the moat of the Imperial Palace, though diners in the know opt for the private sushi bar where you can order your California rolls directly from the chef.

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  5. Kyūbei

    Established in 1936, the unbelievable quality and flawless presentation of Kyūbei's sushi and sashimi spreads is still revered in restaurant-rich Ginza. If you request it beforehand - and reservations are highly recommended - the owner will arrange for your meal to be served on fine pottery thrown by Rosanjin Kitaoji. In a city reluctant to apply sushi superlatives, this spot is truly considered by Tokyoites to be one of the best.

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  6. Ōshima Endomae-Dokoro

    The 30th floor of the Hotel Grand Pacific Le Meridien affords broad views of the cranes, lifts and skyscrapers on the opposite shore. How charming then at such a soaring height that this little spot, with its tiny counter and virtuosic sushi chefs, makes you feel like a bird in a very warm nest. If you're travelling with a loved one, dining on sushi of this quality at such lofty heights is a romantic and altogether memorable experience, especially if the weather is cooperating.

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  7. Sushi-Sei

    Taste top-notch sushi at Sushi-sei, which traces its ancestry back to Tsukiji. Like Akasaka itself, Sushi-sei conducts serious business. Try to hit it during off-peak hours, or expect to queue with hungry government officials and financial movers and shakers. The low-profile shop is set back slightly from the street.

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  8. Tsukiji Tama Sushi

    Settle yourself near the windows and sip from a huge, earthy cup of green tea while you wait for your sushi, which will come immaculately presented and perfectly fresh. The menu also includes set meals and udon if you prefer, though either way, this is a pleasant corner from which to take in good Japanese food and bay views.

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