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The best sushi in Shinjuku! 5 recommendations

April 01, 2024

Savoring "Omakase" Sushi in the Shinjuku

This article introduces a selection of sushi restaurants in Shinjuku that offer luxurious OMAKASE courses.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku and step into hidden gems where skilled chefs serve delicate dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients. With OMAKASE, you can savor the surprise and delight of each carefully prepared course, enjoying a truly special experience. Now, let's explore the top sushi restaurants in Shinjuku that you should visit.

Lets go !

  1. Takumi Tatsuhiro / 匠 達広
  2. Sushi Nishi / すし 西
  3. Kaneshichisyoten Sushi Hiroki / かね七商店 鮨 ひろ喜
  4. Sushi Bando / 鮨 ばんど
  5. Sushi Akazu Kanayama / 鮨 赤酢 かなやま

 

1.Takumi Tatsuhiro / 匠 達広

Tokyo,Shinjuku
☆4.4 (Google Maps)
https://japan-food.guide/restaurants/943

 

"Takumi Tatsuhiro" is a refined sushi restaurant located in a quiet alley just a 3-minute walk from Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station. A proud successor to the techniques and traditions of the renowned Edomae sushi restaurant Sushi Sho, this establishment offers an elegant dining experience. The interior features a warm and inviting ambiance with a 10-seat white wood counter and a private room accommodating up to six people. The minimalist yet sophisticated design enhances the serene atmosphere, making it a place where the master’s meticulous craftsmanship creates an experience that balances comfort and quiet intensity. Service is understated yet welcoming, ensuring a memorable experience.

 

Rice from Noto, a region blessed by nature

 

The restaurant exclusively offers an omakase course, alternating between small appetizers and nigiri. Both the lunch and dinner courses highlight seasonal ingredients, with lunch leaning more casual and dinner offering a more indulgent experience. The dinner course, in particular, is highly praised for its delicate appetizers made with freshly sourced seafood and expertly crafted nigiri. The sushi rice, seasoned with red vinegar and salt, perfectly complements the seasonal fish. Notable ingredients come from Toyosu Market as well as regions like Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Ishikawa, while the rice is sourced from Noto, emphasizing quality and regional flavors. Among the many highlights is the master’s specialty, haruko-dai (baby sea bream) nigiri, a must-try dish that consistently garners high praise from visitors.

 

Sushi made with high quality seafood

 

Reservations are mandatory and can be made via phone or online. Given the restaurant’s popularity, early booking is highly recommended, especially for dinner. Reviews often highlight the high level of skill and attention to detail inherited from Sushi Sho, with guests frequently returning for the uncompromising quality of the food and service. Additionally, the restaurant offers bara chirashi for takeout, a luxurious option for enjoying authentic sushi at home.

 

Operating hours are from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM for lunch and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM for dinner, with the last seating at 9:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. Conveniently located just minutes from Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station, it is an ideal destination for sushi lovers both in Japan and abroad. Combining accessibility, exceptional cuisine, and thoughtful service, "Takumi Tatsuhiro" is truly a must-visit for fans of Edomae sushi.

 

Seasonal sushi with exquisite skill

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2.Sushi Nishi / すし 西

Tokyo, Shinjuku
☆5.0 (Google Maps)
https://japan-food.guide/restaurants/945

 

Shinjuku Gyoen "Sushi Nishi" is an exclusive Edomae sushi restaurant, just a 3-minute walk from Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station. This high-end establishment is designed exclusively for private dining, offering a serene and refined atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Japanese tea room. The elegant hinoki counter and thoughtfully designed interior make it perfect for intimate gatherings, whether with family, close friends, or for business purposes. The option for private bookings is a standout feature, providing an unparalleled level of exclusivity.

 

Carefully selected ingredients

 

The omakase course, available by reservation only, features a carefully curated selection of seasonal ingredients. Guests are treated to 12 pieces of nigiri, a roll, tamago-yaki, and steamed dishes, all crafted with precision by skilled sushi artisans. Each bite is an experience of exceptional craftsmanship, offering flavors unique to this establishment. Due to high demand, it’s advised to make reservations well in advance, either by phone or online.

 

Powerful flavor soaked up by the rice

 

The restaurant operates from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM (last order at 9:30 PM) Monday through Saturday, with irregular holidays. Before visiting, checking the schedule is recommended. Located just steps from Exit 2 of Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, it is easily accessible for locals and tourists alike.

 

Highly rated by both Japanese and international patrons, the restaurant is praised for the perfect harmony between the tangy sushi rice and expertly aged fish. The thoughtfully curated sake selection and impeccable service also earn accolades. With its sophisticated yet welcoming approach, "Shinjuku Gyoen Sushi Nishi" is an excellent choice for special occasions or intimate dining experiences, leaving guests with unforgettable memories.

 

Sake with rich flavor

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3.Kaneshichisyoten Sushi Hiroki / かね七商店 鮨 ひろ喜

Tokyo,Shinjuku
☆4.5 (Google Maps)
https://japan-food.guide/restaurants/910

 

Located just a minute’s walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station, "Sushi Hiroki" is a hidden gem offering exceptional Edomae sushi. This intimate restaurant features a beautifully refined interior, with just six counter seats and a private room accommodating four, creating a total of 10 seats. The small size contributes to its cozy, tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for special occasions. With elegant lighting and thoughtful decor, the space invites guests to focus fully on the exquisite dining experience, offering a touch of escapism from the bustling city.

 

Recommended salmon roe bowl

 

The menu centers on meticulously prepared Edomae sushi made with the freshest seafood. The omakase course is the highlight, featuring appetizers, sashimi, small plates, and 10 pieces of nigiri. This carefully curated lineup showcases the seasonal ingredients and masterful techniques of the sushi chef, who works deftly before your eyes. For those who prefer a simpler meal, the nigiri course focuses solely on sushi, allowing diners to savor its pure essence. To elevate the experience, the restaurant also boasts a fine selection of beverages, particularly sake and shochu, thoughtfully paired with the dishes.

 

A course that offers the best of the sea

 

Due to its limited seating, reservations are mandatory and can be made by phone, with availability throughout lunch and dinner hours. Booking early is recommended to secure a spot at this sought-after establishment.

 

Reviews consistently praise the attentive and sincere service, as well as the precision and artistry of the cuisine. Each piece of sushi is described as a work of art, reflecting the chef’s meticulous attention to detail. Customers also commend the balance of high-quality ingredients and masterful preparation, making Sushi Hiroki a standout choice for those seeking an exceptional Edomae sushi experience. For those looking to escape the noise of Shinjuku and immerse themselves in a serene setting with extraordinary sushi, "Sushi Hiroki" offers a truly special dining experience.

 

Seating where you can watch dishes being prepared

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4.Sushi Bando / 鮨 ばんど

Tokyo,Shinjuku
☆4.5 (Google Maps)
https://japan-food.guide/restaurants/944

 

Just a three-minute walk from Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Station, "Sushi Bando" is a popular spot to enjoy authentic Edomae sushi. The name "Bando," meaning "8" in sushi terminology, was chosen for its auspicious connotation of prosperity. The restaurant features a sleek hinoki wood counter with eight seats, as well as a four-seat table, blending sophistication with a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can watch the chef’s expert craftsmanship up close at the counter, while the table seating is perfect for groups.

 

Beautiful Edomae sushi

 

The restaurant’s highlight is the omakase course, especially during dinner. This course includes a mix of expertly aged and prepared nigiri alongside appetizers and small plates, offering a comprehensive exploration of Edomae sushi techniques. For lunch, options such as premium nigiri and the highly popular bara chirashi are available. The bara chirashi, in particular, is praised for its vibrant mix of fresh seafood and perfectly seasoned rice, making it a favorite among locals and nearby office workers for its high quality and approachable price point.

 

The drink menu is another standout, with an impressive sake selection featuring 12–13 carefully chosen labels from across Japan. Staff can recommend pairings to enhance the sushi experience. Other beverage options, including wine and beer, ensure there’s something to suit every palate.

 

Rice with blended vinegar

 

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner. Bookings can be made via the restaurant’s official website or by phone, and the staff can accommodate special occasions or specific seating preferences. Operating hours are 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM for lunch and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM for dinner, with irregular closing days, so checking ahead is advised.

 

Customer reviews highlight the freshness of the seafood, the chef’s skilled techniques, and the exceptional value offered by both the lunch and dinner options. The bara chirashi and omakase course, in particular, are often described as “worth every yen,” with many patrons returning time and again. Guests appreciate the restaurant’s balance of casual accessibility and high-quality sushi, making it a go-to for both seasoned sushi lovers and first-timers.

For those seeking top-tier Edomae sushi in a relaxed yet refined setting, "Sushi Bando" is a must-visit destination in the Shinjuku area.

 

Counter seating with a view of the cooking

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5.Sushi Akazu Kanayama / 鮨 赤酢 かなやま

Tokyo,Shinjuku
☆4.7 (Google Maps)
https://japan-food.guide/restaurants/884

 

"Sushi Akazu Kanayama" is a refined Edomae sushi restaurant conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s west exit. The intimate space features an eight-seat counter crafted from a single slab of hinoki wood, creating a tranquil atmosphere where diners can enjoy the rare privilege of engaging directly with the chef. The warm, minimalist interior celebrates Japanese craftsmanship, providing an ideal backdrop to highlight the art of sushi.

 

Sushi using seasonal ingredients

 

What sets "Sushi Akazu Kanayama" apart is its unique fusion of culinary traditions. Drawing inspiration from 200-year-old historical texts, the restaurant reimagines classic Edo-period dishes, blending them seamlessly with modern Edomae sushi techniques. The chef, with years of experience at Michelin-starred sushi establishments in Tokyo, demonstrates a deep respect for tradition while infusing his creations with innovation. Each dish is carefully curated, reflecting his passion for seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the market. The omakase course, the restaurant’s centerpiece, not only features exceptional sushi but also includes small plates and side dishes inspired by Edo-style cooking, allowing diners to savor a narrative of flavors that evolve throughout the meal.

 

The restaurant is open from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with the last seating at 9:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays. Reservations are required and can be made by phone or online. With its exclusive counter seating, the restaurant is best suited for small groups, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or a quiet, intimate dining experience.

 

Recommended courses with seasonal ingredients

 

Customer reviews often highlight the standout dishes, such as the marinated tuna (maguro zuke) and yūan-style grilled fish (yūan-yaki). Guests also praise the meticulous quality of the sushi itself, as well as the attentive pacing and thoughtful service. The chef’s detailed explanations of each dish add an educational and cultural dimension to the meal, leaving diners with a sense of having participated in a culinary journey through history. Some have even described their experience as a window into the rich heritage of Japanese food culture, where tradition meets modern artistry.

 

In summary, "Sushi Akazu Kanayama" is celebrated for its commitment to tradition while embracing innovation, earning admiration from both local and international sushi enthusiasts. It offers not just a meal, but a deeply cultural and sensory experience that stays with you long after you leave.

 

Japanese style space

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Conclusion

Shinjuku is home to a wide variety of sushi restaurants, each with its own unique charm.

By visiting the restaurants introduced in this article, you will make your sushi experience in Shinjuku even more special.

We hope you will enjoy the best sushi in Shinjuku!

They are all worth a visit, so use this article as a guide for a great sushi experience on your next trip to Tokyo.