Enjoying delicious food is always one of the best parts of traveling, right? And, if you're visiting Japan, sushi is an experience you simply can't miss. While you might think high-quality sushi means an extravagant dinner, the Aoyama and Omotesando areas offer fantastic options for enjoying OMAKASE sushi during lunch without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll introduce some great spots where you can savor OMAKASE sushi lunches at reasonable prices.
Aoyama and Omotesando are chic neighborhoods where fashion, art, and café culture blend seamlessly. While high-end boutiques and trendy shops dominate the scene, the area also has plenty of quiet spaces where you can enjoy exceptional cuisine, making it a paradise for food lovers. Restaurants here masterfully blend traditional Edo-style sushi techniques with innovative approaches, all while emphasizing seasonal ingredients. Opting for an OMAKASE sushi lunch means enjoying top-tier craftsmanship and fresh seafood, all at a more budget-friendly price compared to dinner options.
Sushi Ryujirou
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Opened in 2019 in Minami-Aoyama, “Sushi Ryujirou” combines tradition and modernity in a refined yet approachable setting. The owner honed his skills under Mitsuyasu Nagano, the first master chef of Sushi Umi, another iconic Aoyama establishment. The result is a unique OMAKASE experience crafted with expertise. For lunch, their popular course begins with expertly prepared tuna nigiri, using rice prepared with a blend of both red vinegar and rice vinegar that perfectly complements the fish. Other seasonal items include white fish, shellfish, and botan shrimp, along with small dishes like chawanmushi and grilled fish, ensuring both heart and appetite are satisfied.
The L-shaped counter, made from thick Kiso cypress wood, gives guests a front-row view of the chefs' meticulous sushi-making process. For a more private experience, the restaurant has individual counter seating in private rooms, allowing you to enjoy your meal at a relaxed pace. Conveniently located just a 4-minute walk from Gaienmae Station and 5 minutes from Aoyama-Itchome Station, “Sushi Ryujirou” is an excellent choice for a leisurely, luxurious lunch along Aoyama’s serene streets.
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Sushi Umi
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Originally located in Yaesu, “Sushi Umi” relocated to Minami-Aoyama, bringing with it a perfect blend of Edo-style sushi traditions and modern creativity. Every element, from the rice to the vinegar and fish, is carefully selected by the chef himself. The rice used is “Hitomebore”, a variety cultivated by farmer Toshiro Ishii, and it’s steamed to perfection in a custom-made Shigaraki pottery oven. Following the philosophy of its founder that “sushi is crafted with the heart, not just skill”, each piece embodies both passion and precision.
Beyond standard sushi, the restaurant offers delightful surprises such as seasonal vegetable-based side dishes and indulgent fare featuring domestic caviar. The laid-back, lively atmosphere encourages interaction between guests and staff, enhancing the dining experience. Located on the first floor of the San'nan Building, “Sushi Umi” ensures the experience will be smooth and hassle-free with cashless payment options. Whether you’re craving excellent food or warm hospitality, this is the perfect spot to enjoy an elegant yet casual lunch.
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Sushi Aomi Aoyama
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A sibling of a famous Shinjuku establishment, “Sushi Aomi Aoyama” welcomes both seasoned sushi enthusiasts and newcomers with its inviting atmosphere. The interior blends modern aesthetics with traditional Japanese design elements, creating a spacious, serene environment. In addition to the main dining area, private rooms with sliding doors are available, making the venue ideal for romantic dates, business meetings, or celebrations.
Every morning, the chef personally selects the freshest seafood, with specialties including premium bluefin tuna and Hokkaido sea urchin, both of which are highly recommended. The OMAKASE course showcases the finest seasonal ingredients through masterfully crafted Edo-style sushi. If you’re sitting at the counter, you can enjoy the thrill of watching the chef prepare each piece in front of you. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of sake and wine, ensuring the perfect pairing for every dish.
Although just a 3-minute walk from Omotesando Station, the restaurant offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding streets. Rigorous hygiene measures also ensure a safe and comfortable dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor from abroad, “Sushi Aomi Aoyama” provides an unforgettable lunchtime escape into the world of exquisite Japanese cuisine.
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Conclusion
An OMAKASE sushi lunch in Aoyama and Omotesando is a fantastic opportunity to indulge in high-quality ingredients and experience expert craftsmanship without the hefty price tag that typically comes with dinner. Each restaurant in this area brings a unique flair, ensuring a new discovery and memorable experience with every visit.
When planning your next trip to Tokyo, make sure to carve out some time for an OMAKASE lunch in Aoyama or Omotesando. The artistry of each nigiri will not only satisfy your palate but also enrich your travel memories. Bon appétit!