hashiguchi

Everyone will have their own favourite high end sushiya in Japan. But no one will argue that Hashiguchi has some of the best sushi in the world.
What fascinated me about Hashiguchi was the lack of information on this humble enigma of a sushiya. From what I could find though, I learnt that Hashiguchi is super anti-​establishment, refuses Michelin Stars, and does not allow photography.
So when I arrived, I was expecting almost a Seinfeld-​esque Soup Nazi. But to my surprise, Itamae Hashiguchi was the most generous and gentle soul (until I asked if I could take photos). But I’m thankful he said no, as it allowed me to focus on the sushi and the artistic performance that was about to unfold.
And boy what a beautiful performance it was. Having been to multiple high end sushiyas, you discover that each Itamae has their own unique style. Itamae Hashiguchi’s movements were graceful yet purposeful, as if every move was meant to happen exactly when it happened. I simply cannot do it justice in words; it was indescribable.
The sushi was as graceful as the performance. Itamae Hashiguchi is famous for his unique «dancing sushi». He applies minimal pressure when making nigiri, resulting in air pockets being trapped amidst the shari and the neta «floating» on the shari. When the nigiri is placed in front of you, gravity compresses the neta (fish) against the shari (rice grains), and the rice grains against themselves. During these split seconds, it appears as if your nigiri is dancing. It was no fluke either, watching every single nigiri dance in front of us was surreal.
Read the full review —

Amazing sushi. One of the few that you can tell is a humble sushimaster. He recieved Michelin stars but actually turned them down.
Of course no pictures allowed but none needed. You will remember this for the rest of your life! The service is amazing, Hashiguchi is a really nice guy and the food is amazing!
A MUST go if you like sushi. You can have either sushi /​sashimi omakase. Also make sure to book ahead!