Kagurazaka Sushi Kokoro

Every bite, a new encounter. Welcome to Sushi Kokoro, one of Kagurazaka’s most vaunted sushi restaurants both within Japan and internationally. Over his 15 years operating in the Ginza area, its head chef Tsutomu Ooba had already established a reputation for his immaculate sushi-making prowess, even before starting Sushi Kokoro in Kagurazaka. Personal, daily visits to Toyosu Fish Market ensure nothing but the freshest fish is presented to his guests. There is only one menu at Sushi Kokoro — the “omakase”, or chef’s selection — which changes daily, based on what Chef Ooba determines is the freshest and most suitable for serving. As many are no doubt aware, “kokoro” literally translates to “heart”, and that is precisely what Chef Ooba puts into every aspect of his sushi. Not only is each Edomae-style nigiri made with heart, but this same thought and care was put into the entire restaurant. Every dish is served on gorgeous Karatsu-yaki ware, considered one of the most emblematic of the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic. The counter, made from a single piece of Hinoki cypress, seats only eight at a time, ensuring that Chef Ooba is able to give each guest personalized attention. His lighthearted banter and trademark hospitality keep guests coming back just as much as the freshness of his sushi.