Some of the best sushi places in Tokyo are very well-known by both locals and foreigners. There are also a few places the locals rate as having some of the best sushi which are not well-known at all. It is no surprise that Sushi Hashiguchi is in that category.

The place is very small, there are only about nine counter seats, and it is located by itself in a residential area in the Motoakasaka area in Tokyo. Furthermore the owner Chef Hashiguchi does not allow any photographs to be taken, which means it is not a popular place for bloggers and similars. The place itself is really an anti-establishment, but the sushi is some of the best to be found. It is also not easy to book on your own, recommended is to book through your hotel if you are not from Japan.

At the restaurant there is only Chef Hashiguchi at the counter. He is assisted by his wife who serves drinks and performs some cooking in the kitchen. There is no other staff. Chef Hashiguchi serves omakase style (his choice), but you can give input to what you like by pointing. You have a choice of eating only sushi or starting with sashimi first and then finishing with sushi. Chef Hashiguchi does not serve opulent tuna pieces that are popular with foreigners; instead you will find a wide and unique selection of seasonal fish, clams and shellfish.

The restaurant itself is decorated in a minimal and elegant style, pure like the flavours of what is served. There are no unnecessary decorations, and the details that are there are well thought out. The most beautiful part is probably the huge Hinoki wood counter you sit by.

Chef Hashiguchi is not only famous for the high quality of his sushi, but also for his dancing sushi. He molds his rice so light that when he puts the sushi in front of you it will settle down in a dancing movement. It is a sight to savour for each piece of sushi some seconds before you savour the actual taste.

Written by Joakim