Sushi Masuda — Restaurant in Tokyo

The "Sushi Masuda". Open for dinner only, menu only omakase, ¥35,200 (incl. tax). Masuda, the master chef, originally trained at "Tenzushi", one of the leading sushi restaurants in the Kyushu region. He then trained for nine years at the legendary "Sukiyabashi Jiro" before going independent in the Omotesando area in January 2014. Within months of opening, he was awarded a Michelin star, followed by two Michelin stars in quick succession; he closed his restaurant in 2019, during which time he produced Sushi Wakon at The Peninsula Tokyo and Four Seasons Kyoto, and opened Sushi Masuda at Mandarin Oriental, Taipei, Taiwan, in 2020. He then reopened his own restaurant in 2022. Naturally, he speaks English, so foreigners can enjoy sushi and his own episodes.

The restaurant has a main counter with eight seats and an L-shaped private counter in the back. This one has a private feel. The interior of the restaurant is pure Japanese style, but the outside of the counter and the toilets are stylish and modern Japanese style.

My overall impression of the dinner is that it is a disciple of "Sukiyabashi Jiro", but with a uniqueness that sets it apart from the others. The nigiri is of course delicious, but the quality of the Japanese small dishes is outstanding at this sushi restaurant. Some ingredients are not used even if they are of high quality if the quality is not satisfactory even if they are purchased on the same day.

The rice is quite acidic, which I feel is a continuation of the restaurant's culture up to 2019. The saltiness is not that strong. Vinegar is a blend of three types. Wasabi also comes directly from the farmers, from sticky to watery. Low temperature rice rice is chosen and the consistency of the rice is standard.

The food is generally delicious and the hospitality of the chef as well as the staff is excellent. If you can get a reservation, you should definitely...

Best piece of fish I've ever had in my life. We got super lucky by going right as they opened their doors on a weekday at 11:30am. We took the elevator down (it's kind of hard to find if you don't read Japanese so look for a tiny little sign that says take the elevator down). Someone greeted us and one of the chefs who spoke great English came over and said he had reservations but could seat us before his 1pm reservation at the counter. So we were in! Every staff member was on top of everything. Super professional and attentive. Masuda-san didn't speak much English, but the other chef did so he helped tell us what was coming our way. We were hesitant to try whale with all the hubub about the way they are killed and whatnot, but decided to go for it since Japan considers it a delicacy. And it was fantastic. Every piece was just divine. I believe what I was told was Sea Parch, but I am not 100% certain, but whatever it was, it was the best fish I've ever had. It was lightly seared and just melted in my mouth. Truly remarkable. The rice was fantastic and complimented the fish well. My friend and I learned that we don't love sea urchin, but were happy to try anything. $250 for lunch seemed a bit steep. Maybe a dinner that makes sense, but for a pretty quick lunch, I'm not so sure. Worth it for the experience and trying some of the world's best sushi, but damn. Fun to talk to the chefs as we were the only ones there for an hour or so. Super kind. I think they laughed at us a few times, but we laughed back so it's just all...

Sushi Masuda is a must-go for sushi lovers – or non-sushi lovers who'll become hooked after the Masuda experience! Everything's executed to perfection, with meticulous attention to detail in both the food and guest experience. The appetizers are masterclass-worthy, and the sushi is a next-level experience. The shari is amazingly well done – perfect rice texture and the vinegar is just right. And the neta? Absolutely perfect, with seasonal selections showcasing amazing texture to each piece of fish, all crafted with masterclass technique. Each bite and piece is hands-down the best you'll ever try. Truly one of Tokyo's best sushi masters and his incredible team! It's not an affordable meal for everyone, every day – but it's worth it for a...