居酒屋 つぐみ 東北沢 (tsugumi) — Restaurant in Tokyo

Tsugumi (the name of the young owner and chef and server) was small, simple, minimal, authentic, masterful (and we have eaten in our share of Michelin star restaurants, and those that should be, around Europe and the US).The Japanese meal was the second best or best we had over the first five days (of 30). It’s close contender was the Dashin Soan, homemade soba restaurant. So we did not have a lot to base our rating on. Not yet.

Tsugumi was a lucky selection. It was not recommended to us, as it is only two years old. But chance was with us this evening. After a long day walking around Roppongi, Tokyo, and at the Mori Art Museum, we were hangry, and searched near our hotel for „vegetarian near me“ in google. It was the closest and looked charming in the pictures. We had no reservation, so were a bit worried we might be turned away.

Tsugumi met us at the door of the tiny corner building ( downstairs seats 10, upstairs 20) with an enthusiastic smile and showed us to the only front table at the window. We saw only two other Japanese couples at the back when we arrived at 7:30pm. Another couple and four international English speakers came later during dinner. He brought us an English menu, to our relief.

We ordered 8 dishes over three orders, Japanese wines - white and red (both blends) - and sake. The variety and selection and vegetarian dishes were impressive (we are not strictly vegetarian and enjoy good seafood and occasional wild red meat). Hard to pick a favorite. We described the food as „atarashi Nippon ryoshi‘. My 2 favorites were the pickled mountain Udo and the kiyomi orange and asparagus, but the sashimi was classic and tasted very fresh.

But perhaps most impressive was the fact that there were between 10-15 diners on two floors and Tsugumi was managing everything alone, cooking, serving, sommelier, bussing tables, and all with a calm energetic enthusiasm.

Highly recommended if you are looking for an authentic neighborhood, nouveaux-cuisine Japanese dinner, in classic simplicity, with quiet atmosphere.

Tsugumisan arigato gozaimasu. totemo...

We had the absolute pleasure of dining at this incredible restaurant during our stay at the Mustard Hotel Shimokitazawa, and it was truly a highlight of our trip. From the moment we walked in, the warm hospitality made us feel welcome—every interaction was kind, patient, and accommodating, especially as English-speaking guests.

The menu was filled with unique and beautifully crafted dishes, each one a delightful surprise. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and it was clear that every ingredient was carefully selected and prepared with expertise. We particularly loved how each dish felt like a new experience, showcasing both traditional techniques and creative flair.

The sake selection was fantastic, with thoughtful recommendations that perfectly complemented our meal. Whether you’re a sake novice or a seasoned enthusiast, the staff is happy to guide you to the perfect choice.

Beyond the incredible food and drinks, it was the hospitality that truly stood out. The staff went above and beyond to ensure we had a wonderful experience, making us feel at home even in a new city.

If you’re staying near the Mustard Hotel Shimokitazawa (or even if you’re not!), this restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Amazing food and wonderful service. We can’t wait...

One of our unanimous best meals of two weeks in Japan. We went back a second time with our friends. What a feast! Each dish is beautiful, varied, exquisitely balanced with flavour and freshness. I don’t know how the chef does it: we had cocktails, eight or nine dishes, sake and other non alcoholic beverages and everything was incredible. The menu changed some dishes between the two nights so it is worth multiple visits. It is humbly priced, well designed and beautiful. It’s on a very quiet residential street away from the hub of Shimokitazawa and was recommended by the staff at Mustard Hotel and so so worth seeking out. The burgundy oysters, oh my god! I’ll also be dreaming of that rhubarb miso tofu for the rest of my life. Wonderful gentle service and a gorgeous small renovated space. A truly special restaurant in Tokyo. A truly special chef. Highest...