Kiku Zushi

One of the greatest joys for gourmands who fear they’ve seen it all is discovering a fresh young talent who shows them another side of familiar ingredients. At Kiku Zushi in Fukuoka, you’ll find just that. The young chef-owner has wisdom beyond his years, and his stratospherically high standards for rice redefine the meaning of perfectly prepared sushi. His analysis of the rice used in his establishment begins before it even reaches the doorstep, because he asks that the farmers he works with track the moisture content in each of their harvests. He then receives a sample to double-check the levels himself before he is satisfied to present the batch to his discerning guests. As for the cooking of the rice, he believes that there is only a brief window during which its texture and flavor peaks, so he times each pot to make sure he hits this sweet spot for all of his guests. Various vinegars are added to complement the different fish used in his delectable, Edomae-style nigiri. His fish all comes from local ports, which he visits each morning to select the highest-quality eel, seasonal fish, and juicy shrimp. If you find yourself in Fukuoka, don’t miss the chance to experience sushi perfectionism at its very best.