Sushi Arai

Tokyo, Japan

Multi-talented young chef Yuichi Arai has garnered a loyal following for his basement-level Ginza sushi emporium, whose minimalist contemporary dining area delights with its glorious ice box built into the rear wall and row of handwritten wooden plates advertising the day’s catch. There are separate areas for English-speaking and Japanese-speaking guests, to ensure that chefs are able to explain the complexities of techniques and dishes – there’s even a book of all the different fish with Japanese and English translations on hand for any rarities that may crop up. Hand-painted tableware forms an elegant backdrop for the likes of scallop from Hokkaido, lean bluefin tuna (akami), pickled cucumber and aubergine, smoked sea eel and clam miso soup, with even the rice being something special, thanks to having been seasoned with azaku red vinegar. Reservations well in advance are essential.

Key Information

• Average price per person $275
• Tasting menu from $135
• Lunch and dinner: Tues – Sun
• 81 3 6264 5855

Location

B1F Ruan Building 8-10-2 Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo, 190 0012