Restaurant Details

It’s often that sushi restaurants operate on exclusivity and hefty price tags, typically manned by sushi masters with decades of experience. When Tahara Ryuichi built his independent concept, Sushi Lab, in Shibuya, he opted to tap into a different approach, blending innovation and top-tier sushi craftsmanship with approachability.

This agenda continues at his newest outpost near Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where Ryuichi’s experimental spirit challenges the conventions of high-end sushi dining. Despite its accessible pricing, Sushi Lab delivers the same top-tier quality one might expect from a prestigious Ginza restaurant at less than half the cost.

Regardless of the location, one thing that diners can count on is Sushi Lab’s employment of a Tsumoto technique for preparing Edomae sushi. This technique involves draining the fish’s blood using water pressure before aging the meat to enhance its flavor. A prime example is Ryuichi’s signature nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) nigiri, which boasts a richer, more complex taste than traditionally prepared versions. Some fish at Sushi Lab are even aged for up to 40 days.

Ryuichi’s 26 years of expertise in sushi, along with his deep industry connections, allow him to source ingredients rarely found in typical markets, and he is constantly inventing and reinventing his sushi creations. For instance, instead of the traditional vinegar marinade, Ryuichi occasionally finishes his fish, like the saba or mackerel, with salt and a presentation that wows: he infuses the nigiri with smoke and encloses it in a glass case, allowing a dramatic, cloudy fog to spill out as the case is opened.

Echoing its name, guests at Sushi Lab can even choose their favorite fish toppings for their course. Coupled with a welcoming staff and enough casual air to put diners at ease, it's no wonder Sushi Lab has built a loyal base of returning patrons.

Shinjuku Gyoenmae Sushi Lab Remarks

• Guests with dietary restrictions and/or food allergies should inform the restaurant beforehand. The restaurant might not be able to accommodate guests who make same-day requests.

• The restaurant reserves the right to refuse reservations to guests who have excessive dietary restrictions, particularly those of fish or vegetables.

• The course menu content listed below is an example and is subject to change based on seasonal availability.

• While the restaurant will do its best to reserve guests’ preferred seating options, it may not always be possible due to availability.

• The pictures provided are for illustrative purposes.

Shinjuku Gyoenmae Sushi Lab Business Days

Shinjuku Gyoenmae Sushi Lab Address

1F-A, 1-4-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022

Shinjuku Gyoenmae Sushi Lab Access Info

• Shinjuku Gyoenmae Sushi Lab is a 1-minute walk from Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station on the Marunouchi Line.

Shinjuku Gyoenmae Sushi Lab Phone Number

Shinjuku Gyoenmae Sushi Lab Cancellation Policy

Cancel your reservation at least 48 hours before the dining start time to receive a full refund.