Sushi Obana

If you find yourself grinding your teeth at how difficult it is to secure a reservation at Ginza’s top sushi restaurants, you’ll be glad to hear that the same exquisite quality is available without a 12-month prior reservation (if you’re willing to take a short trip for it). Sushi Obana is located in the suburbs just outside of Tokyo — a true hidden gem that lies over the border into Gunma Prefecture. At two hours from the city center, many are discouraged from making the trip, which is all the more reason to make it yourself! Those who do are rewarded with the bright, cheery welcome of Obana-san and his wife, who will seat you for a feast of outstanding nigiri featuring classic fish, as well as some rare ingredients such as king crab eggs. Their sea urchins are of the highest quality, presented to the customer in an ornate wooden box before serving. If you’re wondering how world-class sushi can be found so far from the sushi epicenter of Ginza, it’s because Obana-san trained at Kyubey in Ginza during his formative years as a chef, before retreating to suburbia to start his own place.