Restaurant Details

Given its reputation as a historic red-light district, Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district might seem like it only plays host to smoky yakitori joints and snack bars. But those in the know, know that hidden in back alleys and high above the thronging crowds, some of the finest restaurants in Tokyo can be found.

One such restaurant is Sushi Yamaken. Compared to its sister branch in the extremely posh Higashi-Ginza area, it seems out of place in the streets of Kabukicho, just across the road from the looming Godzilla Head statue. However, that just makes its quiet and calm atmosphere all the more appealing, when retreating for a high-end omakase sushi service at the end of a day navigating Shinjuku’s streets.

In contrast to its Ginza sibling, the Sushi Yamaken at Shinjuku Station’s East Exit opts for a less Western-inspired look in favor of a more traditional Japanese atmosphere, with heavy use of natural wood, warm lighting and creamy tones. A sprawling, wraparound counter accommodates over a dozen guests, with table seating options also available to facilitate easier conversation or business meetings.

In terms of hospitality, atmosphere and culinary skill, Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit is up there with the best of them. Expert chefs serve not just impeccably shaped nigiri with fresh seafood and other ingredients, but also kappo-style small dishes that let guests taste the freshest catch and produce that the restaurant can procure through their extensive network of suppliers across the country.

But Sushi Yamaken’s major claim to fame, in fact, is the vaunted all-you-can-eat-tuna course that made it the subject of several magazine and web articles. More recently, it has also become known for its “Yamaken dog”, a variation on the popular “uni dog” that has since made its way onto several of Ginza’s finest sushi restaurants.

An opulent combination of sea urchin and hon-maguro bluefin tuna, wrapped up in a sheet of dried nori seaweed, a single bite of the Yamaken dog is likely to send guests to the front desk to make their next reservation with the staff.

Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit 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.

Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit Business Days

Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit Address

WaMall Kabukicho 6F,1-18-9 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, 160-0021

Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit Access Info

• Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit is accessible via a 2-minute walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station’s South Exit, a 4-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station’s Exit B13, or a 4-minute walk from Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station’s Exit B12.

Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit Phone Number

Sushi Yamaken Shinjuku East Exit Cancellation Policy

Cancel your reservation at least 72 hours before the dining start time to receive a full refund.