Hiroo Ishizaka

On a street corner in Hiroo district, sushi-hunting sleuths will find the Michelin-starred Hiroo Ishizaka, a testament to the dedication required of artisanal sushi. Previously one of Hiroo’s best-kept secrets, known only to the most dedicated of sushi aficionados, the restaurant’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide Tokyo 2024 has thrown the unassuming restaurant into the spotlight. The restaurant is known for its solid focus on sushi fundamentals while still applying Chef Ishizaka’s own distinctive creative touch. Each nigiri, whether botan shrimp, chutoro (medium-fatty tuna) or Chef Ishizaka’s signature shiitake mushroom, is proudly served to the customer on a thick, beautifully patterned ceramic slab. The course concludes with their original soy sauce ice cream, a creamy balance between sweet and salty that reveals the soy sauce’s complexity. With only eight seats available every service, it makes sense for the restaurant to be reservation-only. However, even though it only does dinner services, Hiroo Ishizaka has no fixed days off, so guests shouldn’t have issues finding a slot that fits their schedule. Michelin Guide: 2024 - 1 Michelin Star