Sushi Tokyo 81

Located in a side street just off Gotanda Station, the bright white neon signage of this Gotanda sushi restaurant is instantly recognizable from the outside. In the rain or on overcast mornings, it resembles a scene right out of a movie. A vertically-slatted front window reveals a tantalizing glimpse of the interior where the Edomae magic happens. Stepping into the restaurant reveals a comfortable L-shaped counter, its light color a fashionable contrast to the restaurant’s dark walls and floor. Guests will be greeted by the brilliant smile and instantly disarming charm of the chef. Still, Sushi Tokyo 81 (pronounced “eight-one”) isn’t all just about the aesthetics and atmosphere — the food delivers in spades, too. A staggering selection of Edomae sushi is made live before guests’ eyes, with the highlight being the traditional tuna, aged from between four to seven days for maximum umami and texture. Its shari is made using carefully selected rice sourced directly by the chef, who personally visits the region and designates specific rice fields to ensure consistent quality. The rice is then prepared with a proprietary blend of house-made red vinegar, resulting in a fragrant and well-balanced foundation for each piece. But the true highlight of a meal at Sushi Tokyo 81 lies in its exceptional sourcing. Since the restaurant sources its seafood not only from Toyosu Market but also directly from fishing ports such as Choshi in Chiba and Oma in Aomori, its chefs have access to an outstanding range of premium ingredients. Each item is carefully selected and served at peak condition, allowing guests to experience the finest flavors the Japanese coast has to offer with remarkable freshness and depth. Intimate yet sophisticated, Sushi Tokyo 81 is the perfect place for a small gathering, whether it’s to celebrate a special occasion or for a business meeting.