Nagashima — Restaurant in Tokyo

Sushi Nagashima is among the best dining experiences I've had - ever. I have been fortunate enough to dine at some amazing places around the world, including top tier establishments in NYC, Washington DC, Los Angeles, Paris, London, and Tokyo. Lately, I've been frequenting Japan for work and it is as Anthony Bourdain said, “Tokyo would probably be the foreign city if I had to eat one city’s food for the rest of my life, every day. It would have to be Tokyo, and I think the majority of chefs you ask that question would answer the same way.” I too have fallen in love with the food culture in Japan, and Sushi Nagashima stands above all others as the most memorable dining experience I’ve had. While on a 4 hour train ride back to Tokyo, I researched options all across the greater Tokyo area for an amazing Omakase experience. I luckily found this establishment and the reviews, translated to English, sold me. I took a chance that I would be able to stand in line right at opening time as I did not make a reservation. Fortune smiled upon me as there were two open stools available from the seven in total; I arrived 7 minutes after opening and was nearly turned away. Perhaps the novelty of two gaijin sticking their heads in to inquire about omakase convinced Chef Tomoharu san to graciously allow as a seat without having made reservations. The interior is perfect, the other guests were gracious, and Chef Tomo san was warm, welcoming, and took the time to make the omakase experience truly personal. Each course was exquisite. The flavors were perfectly balanced, interesting, sometimes new and unexpected, and always left me wishing for another piece. I love sushi, from the onigiri at a konbini, to my local American rolls, to the high-end dining experiences afforded across Japan. Chef Tomo san delivered a transformative experience that will forever shape the way I think of sushi. Each course was an experience and an expression of his culinary mastery. I expect that his talents will lead to accolades, a Michelin star, bookings weeks in advanced, or a price point unattainable for most. Gift yourself the life experience and make a reservation if you have the means. I would eagerly travel a few hours each way if it meant dining here again. Expect ¥20-30,000 per...

Quite possibly THE best meal I've ever had in my life.

Of note, I don't speak any Japanese. But chef knows enough English to talk with you, banter with you, and show you a good time, so please don't let the language barrier stop you from coming!

It's a small restaurant on an off-beaten path. 7 chairs. Small and intimate. But the chef has a way with people. Even though I was the only English speaking person and the only solo diner, he was including me in his conversations with his English. Everyone had the same dinner omakase set. From start to finish it was an absolute symphony. The way chef works his hands to form something delicious is an art of itself. A few appetizers (about 4-5 dishes) and about 15 nigiri sushi. And what a journey he takes you through each one. The fish and the rice all melting as one. Each one with a different taste and story. Chef was telling me how he trained for 22 years, of which some years included Hawaii and New York, and he finally got to open his shop up 9 years ago. He wakes up at 5:30AM everyday to go to Toyosu Market to find the freshest catch. He doesn't take any vacation. He works tirelessly for his customers. And all of this translates into perfection in every bite. Some highlights included: uni, akami, Chu-toro, o-toro, and their specialty "white fish."

It feels like a dream the 1.5 hours I spent here. At the end of the meal, he was so appreciative that I came for my last night of vacation in Tokyo to his restaurant and that I traveled for an hour from my lodging to get to him. I was so moved by his appreciation.

Truly a meal I will never forget. Chef here at Sushi Nagashima deserves so much more recognition than what he already has. I have been so blessed...

We have been there last Saturday evening. It was a once in a lifetime experience. The location is very elegant, the chef is exceptional and delivers a single menu of great sushi pieces. The choice of sushi depends on seasonal seafood and comes with beautiful dinnerware. We loved every single piece and enjoyed it with a wonderful Sake. We will come back as soon...