For visitors to Japan, enjoying sushi is one of the best ways to experience the essence of Japanese culture.
While there are many options to choose from, few are as special as OMAKASE — a dining style where the chef decides the entire course for you, selecting the freshest ingredients of the day and crafting each piece right before your eyes.
Asakusa, a neighborhood known for preserving the nostalgic charm of old Tokyo, is the perfect place to dive into the world of traditional sushi.
In this article, we’ll introduce three standout OMAKASE sushi restaurants in Asakusa, each offering a unique experience.
These restaurants are known not only for their dedication to high-quality ingredients and masterful craftsmanship but also for their ability to captivate both tourists and locals alike.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to explore a new dimension of Japanese cuisine, these restaurants are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Sushi Isshin
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Tucked away in a quiet part of Asakusa, “Sushi Isshin” offers a luxurious dining experience in an intimate setting with only eight counter seats.
As a reservation-only restaurant, it provides an exclusive atmosphere that blends the warmth of Asakusa’s neighborhood charm with the elegance of high-end sushi.
With over 30 years of history, Isshin is committed to upholding the traditions of Edo-style sushi, relying only on natural, seasonal ingredients without the use of frozen or farm-raised fish.
Each element at Isshin, from the carefully prepared rice to the house-made soy sauce, reflects the chef’s meticulous attention to detail.
The signature OMAKASE course includes 10 pieces of sushi and small side dishes, with optional pairings of premium Japanese sake.
The restaurant’s reputation for polished hospitality ensures that even first-time visitors feel at ease, making it a welcoming choice for tourists.
Awarded a Michelin star for 13 consecutive years, Isshin has firmly established itself as a top-tier sushi destination.
Reservations are typically made through hotels, which should be convenient for international travelers.
This restaurant is a popular choice for romantic dinners, business meetings, and special celebrations.
Sushi Hatsu Sohonten
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Established in 1910, “Sushi Hatsu Sohonten” has earned a long-standing reputation as a beloved sushi institution in Asakusa.
While the restaurant proudly upholds the Edo-style sushi tradition using time-honored techniques, it has continuously evolved to meet the tastes of modern diners.
Following a major renovation in 2022, the interior now features a comfortable blend of Japanese aesthetics and modern designs, creating a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere.
The ingredients are sourced with care, with fresh seafood arriving daily from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market and coastal regions like Toyama.
In addition to sushi, the restaurant offers seasonal side dishes in its affordable course menus, making it a great option for both casual meals and formal occasions.
“Sushi Hatsu Sohonten” is also known for its wide selection of sake, including regional varieties from Toyama, which pair perfectly with the restaurant’s dishes.
The restaurant has a total of 30 seats at the counter, tables and private rooms, making it suitable for every occasion from family gatherings to business dinners.
The laid-back yet sophisticated vibe makes it particularly appealing to tourists looking for a traditional sushi experience without the pomp of a high-end establishment.
Located within walking distance of Asakusa Station, the restaurant is a convenient stop in between sightseeing activities.
Asakusa Sushi Sei
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With a history spanning more than 130 years, “Asakusa Sushi Sei” is a renowned name among Asakusa’s long-standing sushi establishments.
Known for its dedication to preserving the art of Edo-style sushi, the restaurant has built a loyal following among both locals and visitors.
Sushi Sei sources its seafood daily from Toyosu Market, with a particular focus on premium bluefin tuna supplied by trusted middleman, “Yamayuki”.
The rich aroma and exquisite flavor make this tuna one of the restaurant’s highlights.
In addition to sushi, “Asakusa Sushi Sei” offers a variety of seasonal dishes, such as simmered and grilled specialties, adding depth to the dining experience.
Guests seated at the nine-seat counter can watch the chef skillfully prepare each piece as he explains the ingredients.
There’s also a private room that accommodates up to eight people, which is ideal for business meetings, family celebrations, or intimate gatherings.
The restaurant’s smoke-free policy ensures a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere, allowing diners to enjoy their meal to the fullest.
“Asakusa Sushi Sei” also takes pride in its carefully curated selection of sake and wine, with pairings that enhance the flavor of each dish.
This balance between tradition and casual charm makes the restaurant an excellent choice for anyone wanting to experience the richness of Edo-style sushi without the formality often associated with high-end establishments.
Conclusion
Dining at one of Asakusa’s OMAKASE sushi restaurants is more than just a meal.
It’s an immersive cultural experience that connects you to the essence of Japanese craftsmanship.
Whether it’s the exclusive luxury of “Sushi Isshin”, the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity at “Sushi Hatsu Sohonten”, or the historic elegance of “Asakusa Sushi Sei”, each restaurant will take you on a unique journey into Edo-style sushi.
At “Sushi Isshin”, you can enjoy high-end sushi and premium sake pairings in an intimate setting with only eight seats.
“Sushi Hatsu Sohonten” invites you to explore a modern take on traditional sushi, with affordable courses suitable for various occasions.
Meanwhile, “Asakusa Sushi Sei” delivers a depth of taste cultivated over more than century of culinary expertise, with carefully curated sake and seasonal dishes enhancing the whole dining experience.
These unique sushi experiences will undoubtedly enrich your time in Japan and leave a lasting impression.
If you’re looking to explore the soul of Japanese cuisine through OMAKASE sushi, be sure to include one of these exceptional restaurants in your Asakusa itinerary.
It’s a journey into the heart of Japanese culture that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.