Best Sushi Restaurants In Tokyo You need to try
By Tokyo BFF Team | , 2024
If you love sushi, Tokyo is the place for you. In this article, we'll help you find the best sushi restaurant in Tokyo, share tips on food safety, explore the best ways to eat sushi, and what you can do to avoid crowds. We’ll also point out the best places for vegan and vegetarian sushi, suggest some traditional Japanese drinks to try with your meal, and introduce you to a few of Tokyo's famous sushi chefs.
Whether you're a sushi expert or just starting, you'll find everything you need to enjoy an amazing sushi experience in Tokyo.
Let’s dive in and discover the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo!
This article is a subsection of our extensive series on Learning Japanese.
3 Things to Know for Enjoying Sushi in Tokyo
Food safety
To earn the title “best sushi restaurant in Tokyo’, Sushi chefs must be trained to handle and safely store raw fish, adhering to strict hygiene regulations that include practices like freezing fish to kill parasites and maintaining proper temperatures. These restaurants undergo random food safety inspections by authorities, ensuring everything from seafood safety to kitchen cleanliness is strictly checked.
How to eat sushi
When it comes to enjoying sushi, you have two main options: using your hands or chopsticks. Both methods are perfectly acceptable and choosing one over the other is largely a matter of personal preference.
- Using Hands: Traditionally, sushi was meant to be eaten with your hands. This method allows you to feel the texture and temperature of the sushi. If you decide to use your hands, pick up the sushi gently to avoid squeezing it too hard and causing it to fall apart. Be sure to use the oshibori (wet towel) before cleaning your hands!
- Using Chopsticks: If you prefer, you are welcome to use chopsticks. This method is widely accepted and commonly used in many sushi restaurants. When using chopsticks, hold the sushi lightly to maintain its shape and ensure you get the perfect bite. Here’s a quick video showing the correct way to do so.
Timing Your Visit
Timing your visit to a sushi restaurant in Tokyo can make a big difference in your dining experience. To avoid long waits and ensure you get the best service, it's a good idea to check the busy hours of the restaurant you're planning to visit.
- Google Maps: One of the easiest ways to find peak times is by using Google Maps. Search for the restaurant, and you can view popular times on the restaurant's page. This feature shows you the busiest hours based on real-time data and can help you plan your visit during quieter times.
- Tripadvisor: Another useful tool is Tripadvisor, which allows you to read reviews from other diners. Many reviews include information about wait times and the best times to visit. This can give you a sense of when the restaurant is less crowded.
HBar hooping in Tokyo?
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List of top 5 best sushi restaurants in Tokyo
Let’s start with three luxurious and unique Tokyo sushi experiences you should consider while travelling to Tokyo. Those restaurants are well known as some of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo for their excellent service and high-quality food. If you are looking for that sushi that melts in your mouth, here are some of the best places to start!
1. Sushi Miyuki
Sushi Miyuki is a famous Michelin-starred restaurant in Tokyo. The restaurant is known for its approach to meal preparation. At lunchtime, only nigiri is served, but in the evening, diners can enjoy both nigiri and a variety of side dishes.
Sushi Miyuki is especially known for its omakase experience, where guests can enjoy a variety of exquisite dishes. Some of the delightful options include marinated bonito, sushi topped with luxurious salmon roe, and the rich flavours of snow crab. The chefs at Sushi Miyuki are highly skilled and dedicated to their craft, paying great attention to detail in every piece of sushi they prepare.
This dedication is evident in the quality and presentation of the food, making it a memorable dining experience. The service at Sushi Miyuki is exceptional and has earned the title of one of the ‘best sushi restaurants in Tokyo,’ with staff members providing attentive and friendly service.
- Location: 1-15-11 Shintomi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Nearest Station: Shintomicho Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, Hatchobori Station on the Hibiya Line
- Open Hours: 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 11:30 PM
- Website: Sushi Miyuki
- Budget: ¥8,800 for the omakase course
- Review Score: 4.2/5 (Google Maps)
- English Support: Yes
- Reservations: Recommended for Omakase
2. Sushi Suzuki
Sushi Suzuki, located in the heart of Tokyo, offers a special omakase sushi experience. It is recognisable as not only one of the best sushi places but one of the best Japanese restaurants in Tokyo. The chef, Yasutaka Suzuki was one of the youngest apprentices for Hisashi Kawanaka, the President of Eastern Sushi Association. He dedicated his career to Japanese cuisine, specializing in sushi. His preparation process is characterized by careful and detailed attention. Chef Suzuki carefully selects the best temperature for the rice and each type of fish.
The restaurant has a small, cosy setting that focuses on giving you first-hand experience. The Omakase menu changes daily, as the restaurants aim to prepare fresh sushi every day. You are guaranteed to be able to try seasonal fish and other seafood. They post about seasonal fish on their Instagram.
- Location: 6-5-155F Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Nearest Train Station: Ginza Station
- Open Hours: Thursday - Monday, 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Website: Sushi Suzuki
- Budget: ¥10,000- ¥20,000
- Review Score: 4.2/5 (Google Maps)
- English Support: Yes
- Reservation Status: Required, available via their website
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3. Sushi Inomata
Chef Inomata, a young sushi chef in Tokyo, operates his restaurant in Kawaguchi, quite far from central Tokyo. Despite the distance, Inomata is gaining fame for his delicious sushi, top-quality hon-maguro, and mastery of jukusei, the art of ageing neta to enhance flavours.
Sushi Inomata offers an unforgettable dining experience where aged fish like shiromi burst with flavour, and hon-maguro has a perfect, unique taste. The nigiri stands out with its mineral and gamey flavours.
The restaurant's atmosphere is relaxed and fun, with Chef Inomata and his English-speaking wife creating a welcoming environment. There is no otsumami, just nigiri all night, which many diners appreciate. The sake selection is excellent, featuring unique options that enhance the meal.
Sushi Inomata offers a fantastic dining experience with top-quality sushi and a great atmosphere, making it one of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo, worth taking a trip to Kawaguchi.
- Location: 1-12-23 Saiwaicho, Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture
- Nearest Station: 10-15 minute walk from nearby stations
- Open Hours: Reservation-only slots at 17:00 and 20:00, closed Sundays
- Website: Sushi Inomata
- Budget: Around ¥30,000 per person (excl. tax)
- Cash only
- Review Score: 4.7/5 (Google Maps)
- English Support: Yes
- Reservations: Required, available online
Not all restaurants must be expensive to be worthy of the title ‘best sushi restaurant in Tokyo’. If you are interested in cheaper but still looking for various options, we have two more places for you.
4. Nemuro Hanamaru
If you're looking for high-quality sushi at a reasonable price, Nemuro Hanamaru, a popular Sushi Train Tokyo restaurant chain, is a great choice. Kaiten-zushi, or “conveyor belt sushi,” is a distinctly Japanese style of fast-food dining that has become popular worldwide. This shop has gained many regular customers because the ingredients used in the sushi are carefully selected seasonal products from Nemuro, Hokkaido.
Ginza is known for its many fine sushi restaurants, but this spot has become one of the most successful and popular, showing its true quality. It is one of the most beloved and must-visit sushi restaurants in Tokyo and Hokkaido, according to some locals.
If you don’t have a plan to visit Hokkaido, Nemuro Hanamaru would be a perfect place to dine. The place doesn’t require reservation but it can get crowded so you should be prepared for a long waiting time.
- Location: Multiple locations, including Tokyo and Hokkaido, You can check on the website below
- Nearest Station: Varies by location
- Open Hours: 11 am- 10 pm every day
- Website: Nemuro Hanamaru
- Budget: ¥2,000 - ¥10,000 (depending on how much you eat)
- Review Score: 4/5
- English Support: Yes
- Reservations: Not necessary
5. The Tsukiji Market
Tsukiji Market, formerly the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world, even after the relocation of its wholesale operations to Toyosu Market. The remaining outer market is a treasure trove of fresh sushi, sashimi, and a plethora of other Japanese culinary delights.
Visitors come here to experience meals prepared with freshly sourced ingredients right from the early morning markets. It’s a place where traditional food stalls and small restaurants serve everything from the finest tuna to the rarest sea urchins.
Tsukiji Market is not exactly a restaurant, but we believe some of the best sushi can be found there.
- Location: Central Tokyo, near the Ginza area
- Nearest Train Station: Tsukijishijo Station on the Oedo Line or Tsukiji Station on the Hibiya Line
- Website: Tsukiji.or.jp
- Open Hours: Varies by shop, typically early morning to early afternoon
- Budget: ¥ 1.000- ¥10.000
- Review Score: 4,2/5
- English Support: depends on the shop
- Reservations: Not required, open market
3 Best Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo for Vegans and Vegetarians
Things to be careful of
If you are worried about whether you will be able to try the best sushi restaurant in Tokyo as a vegan, don't worry! We have a list for you to enjoy vegan sushi in Tokyo, it helps to know what to look for. Nowadays, many restaurants offer vegan options, but there are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing your sushi restaurants.
Even if a place offers vegan or vegetarian sushi, there's a chance of cross-contamination. Sushi spots often prepare meat and fish in the same area as plant-based items, which can lead to some unintended mixing. Also, keep in mind that not everyone in Japan fully understands what vegan means. As such, you should make sure to clearly explain your dietary needs and ask how the food is prepared.
Here are some choices you can enjoy in most sushi restaurants:
- Kappa Roll: Cucumber and rice roll
- Inari: Rice stuffed in tofu skins with a sweet-salty soy taste
- Takuan Roll: Pickled daikon radish
- Kanpyo Roll: Dried calabash strips marinated in sweet and salty sauce
- Tamago: Sweet-ish egg omelette, often used by locals to judge the quality of a sushi place.
- Natto Gunkan / Maki: Fermented soybeans with a polarizing taste -locals either love it or hate it
Now, let's dive into the 3 vegan/vegetarian sushi restaurants we selected for you.
Vegan Sushi Tokyo
Vegan Sushi Tokyo is a unique sushi restaurant in Shibuya specializing in plant-based sushi options. They are well-trusted among tourists and vegetarians. Their menu features an array of creative vegan sushi dishes, such as avocado nigiri, tomato sashimi, and various vegetable rolls. They pride themselves on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to offer a satisfying sushi experience for vegans.
- Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
- Nearest Station: Shibuya Station
- Open Hours: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Website: Vegan Sushi Tokyo
- Budget: ¥1,000 - ¥3,000
- Review Score: 4.5/5(Google maps)
- English Support: Yes
- Reservations: Not needed but possible on the website
Do you wanna get a drink?
Where to go after a fine Sushi dinner in Tokyo? Check out our top 15 bar suggestions.
Gonapchi Nishin-Ayabu
Gonpachi, located in Nishi-Azabu, is one of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo for its authentic Japanese cuisine and iconic atmosphere. Famous for its array of traditional dishes, the restaurant offers various vegetarian dishes, like 6 pieces of seasonal sushi and the famous vegetable tempura. The setting evokes a classic Edo-era vibe which gives you a feeling of a truly authentic cultural experience.
- Location: Nishi-Azabu, Tokyo
- Nearest Station: Roppongi Station
- Open Hours: 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 11:30 PM
- Website: Gonpachi
- Budget: ¥5,000 - ¥20,000 (depending on how much you eat)
- Review Score: 4.2/5(Google maps)
- English Support: Yes
- Reservations: Recommended via website
Veganic Monkey Magic
What if we tell you that you can be served food by a person dressed in a monkey costume? That is what Veganic Monkey Magic is all about. Located in Asakusa is a cosy vegan café offering a variety of plant-based dishes such as fried maitake mushroom and miso soup. Known for its vegan sushi and creative drinks like monkey coffee. The café highlights seasonal ingredients and creative recipes that cater to vegans and vegetarians alike. The atmosphere is welcoming, with a menu designed to delight both local and international visitors.
- Location: Asakusa, Tokyo
- Nearest Station: Asakusa Station
- Open Hours: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
- Instagram: Veganic Monkey Magic
- Budget: ¥1,000 - ¥3,000
- Review Score: 4.5/5(Google maps)
- English Support: Yes
- Reservations: There is a reservation form on Instagram.
If you are interested in more vegan restaurants, check out HappyCow.
Famous Sushi Masters in Tokyo
Sushi masters, or "Itamae" as they are called in Japanese, are highly skilled chefs who specialize in the art of making sushi. Becoming a sushi master takes many years of dedicated training and a deep understanding of sushi preparation. These experts know a lot about different fish types, when they are in season, and how to handle and serve them correctly. Sushi masters are known for their precise skills and their deep respect for the ingredients they use. Dining with a sushi master offers a unique and authentic experience, showcasing their exceptional culinary expertise.
Chef Jiro Ono
Chef Jiro Ono is a famous Japanese sushi chef, known all over for his amazing skill in making sushi. Born on October 27, 1925, in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, Jiro Ono started his journey in sushi at a young age and has been in the industry for over 80 years. He runs one of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo, Sukiyabashi Jiro, located in Ginza district. He has built a global reputation for excellence. Sukiyabashi Jiro is a small place with only ten seats, offering a very personal dining experience. Despite its size, it has become a must-visit spot for sushi lovers from around the world. His restaurant, which has three Michelin stars, is famous for its omakase menu, a chef's choice selection that features the best ingredients of the day.
Jiro Ono's approach to sushi is all about the details, from choosing the finest ingredients to serving the fish at just the right temperature. His dedication to perfecting sushi goes beyond just making food; it's a lifelong passion. This commitment was highlighted in the documentary film "Jiro Dreams of Sushi," which gave people a closer look at his meticulous work. Jiro's two sons, Yoshikazu and Takashi, also work in the sushi business. Yoshikazu works with Jiro at the main restaurant, and Takashi runs a branch in Roppongi Hills.
Chef Takashi Saito
Chef Takashi Saito is a famous Japanese sushi chef leading the Michelin-starred Sushi Saito in Tokyo. Saito is known for his meticulous attention to detail when preparing his dishes. Every morning, he selects the finest fish from the market and ages it meticulously to enhance its flavours, achieving a perfect balance between sushi rice and seafood. His style mixes traditional techniques with a modern twist, which has made Sushi Saito a hit among sushi lovers and top chefs alike.
If you're serious about sushi, planning a visit to Sushi Saito is a must for your ‘best sushi restaurant in Tokyo’ checklist.
Pro tip: Try to book at least a month in advance to secure a spot and truly experience the best of Chef Saito’s craft as the restaurant is extremely famous and quickly booked.
Chef Keiji Nakazawa
Chef Keiji Nakazawa of Sushi Sho is another big name in Japanese cuisine. Located in Yotsuya, Nakazawa combines techniques and flavors from different culinary traditions into his sushi. He is known for his Japanese traditional technique and inspiration from Hawaiian cuisine. Nakazawa’s approach sets him apart in Tokyo's competitive sushi market and has earned him a global following.
At Sushi Sho, diners are in for a culinary adventure where traditional Edomae sushi meets global influences, reflecting Nakazawa’s extensive culinary experiences and innovative spirit. His sushi is not just about tradition but also about exploring new flavors and techniques. The omakase menu at Sushi Sho is known for its precision and creativity in crafting each piece.
Chef Nakazawa owns a sake brand collaborating with Sake Brewery making Hawaii's sake named “SUSHI SHO”. For sushi lovers looking for something different, Sushi Sho is a must-visit because of Nakazawa's commitment to his craft and his ability to push traditional sushi boundaries.
Chef Takashi Saito
Chef Takashi Saito is a famous Japanese sushi chef leading the Michelin-starred Sushi Saito in Tokyo. Saito is known for his meticulous attention to detail when preparing his dishes. Every morning, he selects the finest fish from the market and ages it meticulously to enhance its flavors, achieving a perfect balance between sushi rice and seafood. His style mixes traditional techniques with a modern twist, which has made Sushi Saito a hit among sushi lovers and top chefs alike.
If you're serious about sushi, planning a visit to Sushi Saito is a must for your ‘best sushi restaurant in Tokyo’ checklist.
Pro tip: Try to book at least a month in advance to secure a spot and truly experience the best of Chef Saito’s craft as the restaurant is extremely famous and quickly booked.
Chef Keiji Nakazawa
Chef Keiji Nakazawa of Sushi Sho is another big name in Japanese cuisine. Located in Yotsuya, Nakazawa combines techniques and flavors from different culinary traditions into his sushi. He is known for his Japanese traditional technique and inspiration from Hawaiian cuisine. Nakazawa’s approach sets him apart in Tokyo's competitive sushi market and has earned him a global following.
At Sushi Sho, diners are in for a culinary adventure where traditional Edomae sushi meets global influences, reflecting Nakazawa’s extensive culinary experiences and innovative spirit. His sushi is not just about tradition but also about exploring new flavors and techniques. The omakase menu at Sushi Sho is known for its precision and creativity in crafting each piece.
Chef Nakazawa owns a sake brand collaborating with Sake Brewery making Hawaii's sake named “SUSHI SHO”. For sushi lovers looking for something different, Sushi Sho is a must-visit because of Nakazawa's commitment to his craft and his ability to push traditional sushi boundaries.
BONUS: Traditional Japanese Drinks You Have to Try With Your Sushi
While visiting restaurants from our list of ‘best sushi restaurants in Tokyo’ list, here are some of our favorite drinks to enjoy with your sushi.
Ocha
Ocha, or Japanese tea, is a non-alcoholic Japanese drink, coming in many flavors like the vegetal sencha, creamy matcha, roasted houjicha, and refreshing barley tea, mugicha.
It’s not just for tea ceremonies, where it represents purity and tranquillity—it’s also great with sushi. It can fit well with all variations, like sashimi or veggie rolls, ocha can cleanse your palate and lift the flavors of your meal. Plus, it’s got many health benefits, like antioxidants and it can help with digestion. You can enjoy a cup of ocha in most Japanese restaurants and tea houses, where it’s served with a special ceremony, showing just how important it is for Japanese people.
For more information about Japanese tea check out this article.
Sake
To be one of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo, chefs need to offer the finest sake experience as well.
Sake, often called Japanese rice wine, is one of the most recognisable Japanese drinks. It comes in a variety of flavors, from sweet to dry, and has a smooth texture that might include fruity or nutty undertones. This drink typically has an alcohol content of about 15-20% and is usually served either warm or chilled. It pairs exceptionally well with sushi, particularly with fatty tuna and fresh salmon, where it enhances the flavors of these dishes.
If you're exploring sake, keep an eye out for popular types like Junmai, Ginjo, and Daiginjo. You can enjoy these and other varieties in most traditional Japanese restaurants or specialized sake bars. Moderate consumption of sake can fit into a healthy lifestyle, so it's a great choice if you want to delve into the rich flavors of this traditional beverage.
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Beer (Biiru)
Japanese beer is a culinary staple, beloved not only across Japan but also around the world, known for its light, refreshing qualities that make it an ideal complement to sushi. With its crisp and slightly bitter taste, it balances the richness of oily fish and tempura, while also matching well with the spicy flavor of wasabi and the savoury taste of soy sauce.
Common varieties include pale lagers, which are most popular for their easy drinkability, alongside a burgeoning craft beer scene that offers everything from hoppy IPAs to robust stouts, each with a typical alcohol content of around 4% to 7%. These beers are always served chilled, providing a cool, palate-cleansing effect that enhances the delicate flavours of sushi.
This beverage is available everywhere, from casual sushi places to luxury dining, so you can enjoy a pint no matter where you choose to eat. While beer is enjoyable, it's important to consume it in moderation due to its caloric content which can add up.
Shochu
Shochu is a Japanese spirit that is less known internationally compared to sake. It is often enjoyed at social gatherings and traditional ceremonies. This versatile alcoholic drink is made from various ingredients such as barley, sweet potatoes, and rice. These ingredients give shochu a range of flavours from mild and sweet to rich and earthy. This variety makes shochu a great drink to pair with different sushi dishes, especially those with strong flavours like smoked eel or the salty taste of sea urchins.
You can enjoy shochu in many ways: neat, diluted with water, on the rocks, or even slightly warmed, depending on the season and your taste. Shochu usually has an alcohol content between 25% and 35%, making it a strong drink. It is often served in specialized shochu bars and restaurants, where fans appreciate its depth and variety.
Because of its higher alcohol content, it’s important to drink shochu responsibly, especially for those who are not used to stronger spirits. In Japanese dining, shochu is similar to fine whiskey in the West, offering a rich cultural experience that enhances any meal.
What is Tea ceremony?
To learn more about Matcha and the Japanese Tea Ceremony, check out our Guide to the Japanese Tea Ceremony in Tokyo
Useful Japanese Phrases for Ordering Sushi
Knowing just a few simple Japanese phrases can make all the difference when dining in the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo and Japan. It’s not just about getting the bill or sorting out the payment - it’s also a way to connect with the culture and show respect to the restaurant staff. Whether you're asking to split the bill, ready to pay with your credit card, or just want to show gratitude for a great meal, using these phrases correctly can help smooth things over and leave a good impression. Here’s a quick rundown of some handy expressions to use as you are at the dining place
Entering the Restaurant
"Sumimasen, futari desu." (すみません、二人です。)
- Meaning: "Excuse me, party of two."
- Usage: Use this phrase when you enter the restaurant to inform the staff how many people are in your party. It helps the host find a suitable table for you.
"Yoyaku shite imasu." (予約しています。)
- Meaning: "I have a reservation."
- Usage: This phrase is crucial if you’ve booked a table in advance. Mention it as you arrive so the staff can verify your reservation and lead you to your table promptly.
Tennai desu. ( 店内です。)
- Meaning: "We will eat here."
- Usage: This is useful in more casual sushi establishments, such as conveyor belt sushi restaurants, where you might be asked if you’re dining in or taking away. It clarifies that you intend to dine at the restaurant.
Ordering from the Menu
"Kore o onegaishimasu." (これをお願いします。)
- Meaning: "This one, please."
- Usage: Use this phrase when pointing to an item on the menu or in a display case. It’s a polite way to indicate your choice and is particularly useful in sushi bars where you can see the dishes in front of you.
"Omakase shimasu." (おまかせします。)
- Meaning: "I'll leave it to you."
- Usage: This phrase is used when you want to experience the chef’s selection of sushi, which often includes the day’s freshest and finest ingredients. It’s a sign of trust and respect for the chef’s expertise and is highly recommended if you're looking to enjoy a unique dining experience.
"Nigiri sushi o kudasai." (にぎり寿司をください。)
- Meaning: "I would like to have nigiri sushi."
Usage: If you have a specific type of sushi in mind, such as nigiri, use this phrase to specify your order. It’s straightforward and lets the staff know exactly what you’re looking for.
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Special Requests
"Wasabi nuki de onegaishimasu." (わさび抜きでお願いします。)
- Meaning: "No wasabi please."
- Usage: Use this phrase if you're sensitive to spice or simply prefer your sushi without wasabi. It lets the chef know to prepare your sushi without adding wasabi underneath the fish, a common practice in authentic sushi preparation.
"Alerugī ga arimasu." (アレルギーがあります。)
- Meaning: "I have an allergy."
- Usage: This statement is crucial for preventing allergic reactions. You can specify your particular allergen after this phrase to communicate your needs, such as “Ebi ni alerugī ga arimasu” (I am allergic to shrimp).
"Namamono wa dame desu." (生ものはだめです。)
- Meaning: "I can't eat raw fish."
- Usage: If your diet is restricted or you prefer to avoid raw fish, this phrase is essential. It informs the chef that you should be offered alternatives to raw fish dishes, like cooked or vegetable-based sushi options.
Asking for Refills
"Mizu o onegaishimasu." (水をお願いします。)
- Meaning: "Water, please."
- Usage: Use this phrase when you need a refill of water. It's straightforward and polite, making it clear that you're asking for more water.
"Ocha o kudasai." (お茶をください。)
- Meaning: "Tea, please."
- Usage: This phrase is useful when you want to request more tea. In Japan, tea is commonly served with meals, and using this polite request will ensure you get a refill without any misunderstanding.
"Biiru o mou ippon onegaishimasu." (ビールをもう一本お願いします。)
- Meaning: "One more bottle of beer, please."
- Usage: If you’re enjoying a beer and would like another, this phrase is perfect. It specifically requests another bottle, showing that you know exactly what you want and making it easy for the server to fulfill your request.
Compliments and Courteous Phrases
"Arigatou gozaimasu." (ありがとうございます。)
- Meaning: "Thank you very much."
- Usage: This is a versatile phrase that can be used in almost any situation where you want to thank someone. Use it at the end of your meal to express your gratitude to the staff for their service.
"Oishikatta desu." (美味しかったです。)
- Meaning: "It was delicious."
- Usage: Say this to your waiter or chef when you've particularly enjoyed your meal. It not only shows your appreciation for the food but also is a compliment that chefs and servers greatly appreciate.
"Subarashii sābisu desu." (素晴らしいサービスです。)
- Meaning: "Excellent service."
- Usage: Use this phrase to commend the waiter or the restaurant on their outstanding service. It’s a great way to acknowledge their effort and professionalism, particularly if you feel their service went above and beyond.
Order Takeout
"Mochikaeri onegaishimasu." (持ち帰りお願いします。)
- Meaning: "Takeout, please."
- Usage: This is a straightforward phrase to use when you enter a restaurant and want to order your food to go. It tells the staff right away that you’re not planning to dine in.
"Omochikaeri shimasu." (お持ち帰りします。)
- Meaning: "I'll take it to go."
- Usage: This phrase is useful if you need to clarify your intentions, especially after browsing or sitting down accidentally. It helps prevent any misunderstandings about whether you’ll be dining in or taking your meal to go.
Finishing Up and Bill Payments
"Okaikei onegaishimasu." (お会計お願いします。)
- Meaning: "Check, please."
- Usage: Use this phrase when you are ready to leave and need to ask for the bill. It’s a polite way to signal to the waiter that you have finished dining and would like to settle your account.
"Betsu betsu ni shite kudasai." (別々にしてください。)
- Meaning: "Please split the bill."
- Usage: This phrase is helpful when you are dining with others and each person prefers to pay separately. It clarifies to the staff that the bill should be divided among the group.
"Kurejitto kādo de haraimasu." (クレジットカードで払います。)
- Meaning: "I will pay by credit card."
- Usage: If you intend to pay with a credit card, this phrase lets the staff know your payment method, ensuring the transaction can be processed smoothly.
"Gochisousama deshita." (ごちそうさまでした。)
- Meaning: "Thank you for the meal – said after eating."
Usage: This is a traditional phrase used to express gratitude after dining. It acknowledges the chef and staff for the meal provided, reflecting respect and appreciation for their service.
Can we order?
Looking to brush up on your Japanese food ordering skills? Check out our guide to ordering food in Japanese.
Final thoughts
And that’s our list of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo! After reading the article, you can enjoy your sushi hunting with minimum worry. You can find relevant articles at the bottom if you are interested in more information.
It is also a good idea to also ask for advice and websites like Reddit and Quora can help you connect with tourists and locals for the best experience.
