Sushi...So many level, so many choices

Sushi. So we understand that when in Tokyo, or Japan in general, of course you want to go to a conveyor belt sushi place. The joy of having sushi plates pass you by on a belt, while you pick up what you want is unparalleled. The problem is that the quality of sushi in these places is not that great. Still there are a few gems, and here is one.

Genki Sushi. Its sushi and conveyor belt. Its a great experience and its easy to manage. But it’s also kind of fun. So it’s worth a try! There are a few branches in the city, but we think that the best one is in the heart of the Shibuya shopping district. The aesthetic is minimalist, the sushi comes quickly and its good quality. Its a fun place for family, couples or just on your own. Plus its a great pit stop as you go through the shops in Shibuya! Cost: Dependent on what you eat. Averages to 1500JPN.

Sushi Tokyo Ten. This served as sushi Omakase. Essentially Chef’s choice. This quality sushi and lets you be adventurous without having to make choices because the chef will serve what he has prepared. So this is fancy but within reach and means. We suggest you Sushi Tokyo Ten at the Shibuya Stream. The Omakase course will serve fatty tuna rolls, salmon, sea urchin, (uni) and of course the famous Japanese style omlette–dashimaki tamago, among other culinary gems. Bonus points for a cool and sleek decor. Cost 4400JPN lunch . 8800JPN dinner. https://sushitokyo-ten.com/

Midori Sushi. For your everyday good sushi experience. This restaurant is the perfect blend of quality and value. Located in 3 locations across the city (Shibuya, Ginza, Akasaka) it offers sushi, rice bowls and other favorites at reasonable prices. Favorites include sea urchin (uni), tuna and salmon as well as clams, and nigiri rolls. Cost 2000-3000JPN.

Tempura

Tempura, the comfort food you never knew you needed.

Tempura: In case you are wondering about tempura, or don’t know what it is, here goes. A well done tempura is essentially a lightly battered vegetable slice or seafood that is deep fried but tastes just right with no heaviness or after taste. So for this miraculous treat, our top restos are:

Tempura Kurokawa (at Tsukiji Market) This is an unpretentious joint in the old fish market, so be prepared for some plain walls and setting. Better to go there earlier in the day. But it does offer some very fresh seafood tempura in the shape of scallops and prawns, and fresh organic vegetables, so its a treat! Seats 12 max. Cost: 1500-3000JPN.

Tsunahachi. Located in Shinjuku, the resto offers seats around the counter you can see the cook making up your delicious tempura meal. It’s a popular spot, so there maybe a line up, but it moves quickly. It sources its seafood from the Tokyo Fishmarket, and uses sesame oil for its tempura fry up. Weekday lunch offers the best deals, a mix of seafood and vegetable tempura on rice along with pickles and miso soup. Cost 1870-3000JPN lunch. 2970-9680JPN for dinner.

Tempura Kondo. Michelin Star Tempura. Good tempura is difficult tp pull off, so if it has 2 Michelin stars, you know they are doing something right. Set in a understated classical space around the counter, it offers 25 seats, and the chef’s philosophy is to draw out the flavours. Meals come in sets made up of rice, miso, fruit and tempura of fish, vegetables, and fish. Cost 10000-130000JPN lunch. 20000-30000 JPN Dinner.

Ramen

Ramen. The ramen bowl is humble and welcoming and filling. The ultimate comfort food. The advantage is that you can walk into any alley grab some. Still, we suggest that for a experince that will stimulate your palette, Afuri Ramen. It has several branches throughout the city. With both counter booth seating, it has buzzy and welcoming atmosphere, the staff will help you order even if you speak no Japanese. Cost 1000-2000JPN.

Kagari Soba Ramen. This is different and worth trying because its is chicken based and creamy. The other more clear soup is sardines and soy sauce based. It accommodates up to 15 people and there is an English menu available. be warned there is usually a long line up at lunch. Located in Ginza (shopping district) it makes for a great lunch spot or quick snack stop. Use Ginza line exits B7/B7 to get there. Cost: 1000-2000JPN.

Chuka Soba Ginza Hachigo. This is the Michelin Star ramen that you came for. The broth is clear, light but flavourful, and made by boiling down Nagoya Cochin chicken, duck, scallop, dried tomatoes and shiitake mushrooms, and cured ham. The wontons are filled with a paste of foie gras and truffles. The Chef has a French culinary background after all.

Special tips to make food dreams come true...

Lunch menus are usually cheaper that dinner. There is a line everywhere, so don’t be intimidated.

Things usually come in sets, meaning it will be a set price for food and drink. A bit like Prix fixe.

Make bookings for Michelin star restos in advance. Space is at a premium and things fill up quickly.