I was amazed and moved by the evolution and dedication of Mr. Udzutsu, whom I visited after a long time. Mr. Udzutsu skillfully crafts sushi, pursuing both traditional excellence and creative innovation. While he incorporates various techniques, the essence of his skill lies in delivering unique textures and staying true to the fundamentals of delicious sushi. His sushi begins with the superb quality of the shari (sushi rice). Using small grains of rice, infused thoroughly with vinegar to create a smooth yet firm texture, the rice maintains a delicate balance between richness and a subtle firmness reminiscent of al dente pasta. The rice's robustness complements the sushi toppings exceptionally well, allowing them to blend seamlessly in the mouth while retaining their individual qualities, resulting in a perfectly balanced and meticulously crafted finish. This artistic shari truly shines when paired with bold toppings, such as the firm and flavorful kohada (gizzard shad) served as the first piece, which leaves a surprising impression. Every piece of sushi is delicious, but the moment when the fatty tuna is briefly seared over charcoal, presenting its charred side against the shari, showcases the exceptional quality of the rice, with each grain enveloped in fat akin to the level of integration seen in a risotto. It's a realization of harmony. Furthermore, the final roll with sweetened dried gourd, potent wasabi, and excellently prepared nori seaweed creates a superbly flavorful combination. Mr. Udzutsu's attention to detail in every aspect of his dishes was impressive during my previous visit, but this time, the excellence was truly astounding. Bravo, and I will definitely be returning.

【2023 Michelin Star】【Best 5000 Restaurants】About two weeks ago, I made a reservation at a recently popular sushi restaurant located near Nakameguro, just off the shopping street. It's called "Udatsu Sushi" and is situated around the area where you'd fold back on the Toyoko Line. It's in a building with two floors, and one corner juts out, painted gray, making it stand out as a sushi restaurant in the midst of a residential area. Inside, it's surprisingly modern and artistic, nothing like a traditional sushi place. Udatsu Hisashi, formerly of Ginza Sushi I, presents a creative twist on traditional Edo-style sushi alongside his signature dishes. Lunch course: 8800 yen, with 2 glasses of sake, plus an additional caviar sushi for 14600 yen. Notable dishes include Herb Roll (cucumber, ginger, myoga, edamame miso, and burdock chips), Small Fin with vinegar and citrus, Red Seabream, Ishigaki Scallop, Striped Jack with a unique texture, Marinated Swordfish with ginger and green onion, Sake-steamed Blue Mussels with salt and bonito flakes, Sea Urchin with lightly fried seaweed, Lean Tuna with yuzu, Toro with a chewy texture, and more. The ambiance is enhanced by contemporary art pieces hanging in both the dining and waiting areas. Udatsu Hisashi and his apprentices wear stylish blue workwear, adding to the chic atmosphere. Interestingly, most of the customers were foreigners, around half this time but sometimes up to 70%. It's likely they don't leave reviews on Japanese restaurant websites, so the actual rating could be even higher. The sushi, featuring inventive creations alongside traditional favorites, is meticulously prepared with dedicated attention to each ingredient, including specially prepared rice for certain types of fish. The restaurant boasts a well-organized interior with a neatly concealed refrigerated case for the fish, ensuring freshness. With its unique approach and high-quality offerings, Udatsu Sushi is poised to become one of Tokyo's top sushi destinations in the upcoming year!

I visited a sushi restaurant in Nakameguro that I had been wanting to try for a long time. The chef, Mr. Utazu Hisashi, who trained at a sushi restaurant in Ginza, opened this Michelin one-starred restaurant in 2019, emphasizing both traditional Edo-style sushi and creative dishes like the "Herb Roll" wrapped in seaweed with fish and herbs, and the hand-rolled "Veggie Roll" with vegetables and vinegared rice. The restaurant is located in a quiet residential area away from the bustling streets of Nakameguro, with an unassuming exterior that resembles a secret hideout. Upon entering, I was greeted by a stylish and artistic interior that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. The counter and kitchen area exuded the ambiance of a traditional sushi restaurant with hinoki wood accents. The anticipation for the sushi experience heightened as I imagined what was to come, especially with the unique presentation of the ingredients stored in a charming ice room behind the counter. As I settled into my seat, I started with a refreshing beer while awaiting the first dish. It arrived beautifully presented in exquisite tableware: a yellowtail and shallot thick roll. The balance between the flavorful yellowtail, aromatic shallots, and the sea-scented nori was delightful and intriguing. The following dishes continued to impress both visually and gastronomically: steamed black snapper from Shimoda, chilled winter melon and hairy crab sauce, fried megrim sole with spicy cod roe and pickled ginger tartar sauce, and a vegetable roll featuring okra, myoga ginger, and hijiki seaweed with a base of fava beans and white miso. Each dish showcased a variety of textures and flavors, keeping the dining experience exciting. Moving on to the nigiri sushi, I savored delicacies such as kohada from Osaka, vinegared amberjack from Yamaguchi, and plump ark shell. The use of ingredients like shallots and crispy seaweed between the rice and fish added a unique twist to familiar flavors. The sushi rice itself was outstanding, with a distinct aroma that complemented the fish perfectly. Upon inquiring, I learned that Mr. Utazu has a dedicated rice supplier in Kyoto who custom-produces rice specifically tailored to his sushi, and he blends three types of rice vinegar from Fumio Brewery in Kyoto to achieve his preferred flavor profile. This attention to detail and dedication to quality ingredients truly elevated the dining experience. The atmosphere in the restaurant was warm and inviting, thanks in part to the friendly and approachable demeanor of Mr. Utazu. He graciously shared insights into each dish and made the dining experience both educational and enjoyable. Despite his impressive skills and uncompromising standards, there was an air of relaxation that made diners feel at ease. Overall, it was an exceptional culinary journey that left me thoroughly satisfied and grateful.

I went for sushi in Nakameguro on this day. A friend mentioned it, so I made a reservation and went. Sundays seem to have a cheaper course for the second tier! So, it's a bit tricky to evaluate based on that. The entrance was a bit hard to find, but I liked the hidden gem vibe. It was located in a residential area away from the hustle and bustle. We opted for the ¥16,500 course with some additional items. We enjoyed it while sipping drinks, and everything was decently tasty. Nothing mind-blowing, but if you can eat well at this price range in the heart of the city, it's totally fine. Since it was a private room, I can't speak for the atmosphere at the counter, but it was cozy in its own way. I think we got the last available slot since we made a reservation at the last minute. It's not easy for me to access from my home, so I'm not sure about revisiting, but it was a decent experience! Thanks for the meal. The bill was around ¥25,000, and we stayed for about 2 hours.

I visited for our anniversary. While I appreciate the unique concept of enjoying unconventional sushi, I found the quality to be disappointing for the price. The rice was mushy, and the sushi pieces were heavy and large, making it a bit tiring to eat. The fact that the rice, a crucial element in sushi, wasn't delicious was a significant drawback. We spent over 70,000 yen for two people, but the satisfaction level was not high, and I believe the cost-performance ratio is not favorable. Personally, I feel more satisfied enjoying high-quality sushi from a traditional sushi restaurant.

Naka-Meguro's stylish and delicious sushi restaurant. Behind the heavy sliding door lies a dimly lit, art gallery-like space that feels so stylish you might think you've come to an art gallery instead of a sushi restaurant. The dishes all have a creative twist and are strongly influenced by modern cuisine, yet they are incredibly delicious without feeling out of place. Here is the course content: Omakase course ¥22,000 - Herb-wrapped sea bream - Smoked fatty tuna - Soft-shelled turtle and noodle soup - Steamed clams with Genovese sauce - Clam broth - Raw red tilefish with roasted sake and ground cherry - Deep-fried belt fish and corn - Vegetable roll - Small skin - Seared young sea bream with kelp - Greater amberjack - Japanese smelt - Cold sweet shrimp sandwiched between shrimp - Sea urchin and horse dung sea urchin with deep-fried seaweed - White cuttlefish - Ooma medium fatty tuna pickled in sake - Toro tartare - Blow-torched fatty tuna pickled in sake - Clam miso soup - Additional courses: golden eye snapper, horse mackerel, blackthroat seaperch, collar tuna, conger eel, and egg.

I visited here, known for its great value for money in matured sushi lunch. The golden eye snapper was wonderfully firm and delicious. However, the marinated tuna had a slightly strong seasoning flavor... Interestingly, apart from us, there were only foreign customers!

I went to Tokyo after a long time. They guided us to a private room, and I was delighted with the presentation of each dish. We opted for the 13,200 yen course and the drinks were also delicious. The total bill for two came to 38,000 yen with two drinks each. At the end, we added sea urchin and blackthroat seaperch for both of us. They brought it in a wooden box, which added to the experience! We could choose from caviar, fatty tuna, blackthroat seaperch, and saltwater sea urchin. If you live near Naka-Meguro, you should definitely try it out! It's a great place for business meetings or family outings.

Hidden sushi restaurant nestled in the depths of Naka-Meguro. It's located in a residential area, making you wonder if it's really here. Upon entering the main entrance, there's a split path on the left and right, where you can wait for guidance at the adjacent bar. The interior of the restaurant consists solely of a charming counter. With only a few seats available, it offers a tranquil dining experience. Thank you for the wonderful meal.

My master made a reservation for my birthday and took me to lunch. The restaurant was located in a residential area in Naka-Meguro, and there was no signboard, so I didn't notice the place at all. It seemed to be a popular spot known for its vegetable rolls, and indeed, they were delicious with delicate flavors and beautifully presented. Among the various dishes we tried, the sea urchin wrapped in seaweed was particularly delicious. It had a taste I had never experienced before and was truly delightful. Also, the lean tuna was amazing! Its richness was so delightful that we ordered more. The deep-fried dish with mentaiko sauce was also very tasty. Although I didn't personally enjoy the rolled omelet served at the end, my husband, who usually dislikes rolled omelets, praised its deliciousness. Although not shown in the photos, we were even served a cake as a commemoration, making it a very fulfilling experience. Since it was a private room, we could enjoy a relaxed atmosphere just the two of us, making it perfect for special occasions like anniversaries.

Firstly, it's stylish. Both the interior and the ambiance. The menu for June was also fantastic. The flavors were modern, bold, refreshing, with punches of taste, surprising collaborations of texture and flavor, which I believe are linked to the chef (probably) and the atmosphere inside the restaurant. I thought it was a very good place. I also felt the energy of youth. I will visit again.

I went to a place with a friend for lunch, and I couldn't believe such a place existed! The atmosphere was quiet, and we had the following dishes: vegetable rolls, small strips of flounder, matsukawa (type of fish), kanpachi (amberjack), isaki (grunt), kinmedai (alfonsino), uni (sea urchin), squid, red-fleshed marinated tuna, fatty tuna, shrimp, sardines, torotaku (fatty tuna and daikon radish), anago (sea eel), and an omakase course for 8,800 yen. I added extra pufferfish to mine! Sundays seem to be a day for apprentices, but everything was incredibly delicious. I was particularly impressed by the flavor of the grunt, which suited my taste. You can choose salt or vinegar for the conger eel, and I chose salt on that day. Overall, the seasoning was relatively refreshing. The atmosphere of the restaurant was clean, and there were also foreign customers. I'd love to go again!

【2023 TOP 5000】【2023 Michelin ☆】Located a 5-minute walk from Naka-Meguro Station, Udanotsu Sushi is distinguished by a solid single door adorned with traditional Japanese metalwork. The serene space is adorned with famous artworks from around the world. In this gallery-like ambiance, you can savor exquisite sushi crafted by a master chef who honed their skills in Ginza and Nishi-Azabu sushi restaurants (young chefs handle weekends and holidays). A significant feature here is that about 70% of the clientele are foreigners. The shari (sushi rice) is specially made for Udanotsu Sushi by directly collaborating with farmers, and the vinegar, tailored to complement the rice, is a blend of three types made from completely pesticide-free rice from Iio Jozo in Kyoto. The seasoning includes matured mirin, Kondo Brewery's soy sauce made from 100% domestic soybeans, Hori Kawaya Nomura's soy sauce from Wakayama, fire-roasted over wood, and a blend of sake-infused simmered soy sauces to match the fish and shari. The lunch nigiri course kicks off with a vegetable roll featuring myoga (Japanese ginger) and okra, providing a refreshing start. Sea urchin sushi is served with crispy nori (seaweed) between the shari, and firefly squid is marinated with ginger, spring onions, and aged miso before being molded into sushi. From classic to unique nigiri, I thoroughly enjoyed the "Udanotsu style" sushi experience. Bon appétit! [Lunch Nigiri Course ¥8800] - [Vegetable Roll], [Flounder], [Isaki (grunt)], [Scallop], [Marinated Horse Mackerel], [Sea Urchin], [Squid Ink Squid], [Lean Tuna], [Medium-Fatty Tuna], [Kohada (Gizzard Shad)], [Firefly Squid with Miso Paste], [Shrimp], [Simmered Scallop], [Tamago (Sweet Egg)], [Soup], [Japanese Green Tea].

I visited for lunch. I appreciated the consideration of being able to wait at the bar next door until the time. The atmosphere of the restaurant themed around art was very nice. In addition to standard sushi, the innovative menu items like minced firefly squid and chopped clams were delicious. I would love to visit again.

My husband's birthday celebration is always sushi, but this time we found this place on Tabelog and were drawn to its hidden gem vibe. We were guided to a private room, and the course started with visually appealing creative appetizers. The smoked squid with egg yolk soy sauce, young corn with new onions sauce, and eating mekajiki (swordfish) were especially delicious. Each dish had exciting combinations and textures I had never tried before. Since it was a special celebration, we indulged in additional nigiri with extra blackthroat seaperch and Bafun sea urchin (additional charge unclear). The finale was an egg roll that resembled a cake and Japanese black tea. When we left the private room, the counter seats were almost full. It turned out to be a celebration that greatly pleased my husband. One thing, I got a bit anxious as the drink menu didn't have prices listed (lol). In the end, we splurged for the celebration, but it would have been appreciated if they had written down the prices. I hope to become a wealthy person who can indulge without worrying about money. 😄

I visited Udzutsu Sushi in Naka-Meguro for lunch during Golden Week. This restaurant earned one Michelin star in the 2023 Tokyo Michelin Guide. The lunch set costs 8,800 yen, which is great value! The meal includes hand rolls (specialty vegetable rolls), 12 pieces of nigiri sushi, a soup, and tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette). There were two chefs in their 30s and two staff members running the place. Each sushi piece had its own unique touch, and overall, I found the restaurant very appealing!

I visited during a weekday lunch break. It seems relatively easy to get a reservation, maybe due to the location. It's a bit tucked away in a residential area from Naka-Meguro station, so those unfamiliar might get slightly lost. The restaurant itself is stylish and offers a calm atmosphere for dining. Surprisingly, most of the counter seats were occupied by foreigners, not just from the city center but even from the outskirts like Naka-Meguro. The sushi here is delicious, with some specialties alongside standard options. It's reasonably priced and provides a fun atmosphere for drinks, making it suitable for a sushi date or similar occasions.

Lunch reservation for an ¥8,800 course: Bamboo shoots and Italian parsley with sea grapes and new potatoes. The final bite consisted of 3-year-aged red miso with red snapper, flatfish, cherry salmon from Hokkaido's Toshima, and sea urchin, with crispy seaweed in between. There was also marinated lean tuna, medium fatty tuna, and onion soy sauce-marinated bonito. The sushi included firefly squid namero and simmered scallop with egg. Herb tea was served. It was delicious and great value for the price.

I used the lunch course, and most of the customers were foreigners. The surrounding customers had a course one level higher than mine, but the timing was well coordinated, and the service speed was perfect. The texture, flavor, freshness, and overall performance were all top-notch. Considering that this course is 8,000 yen, I think you should definitely try it at least once. Moreover, even though it seemed like they were focused on sushi, they were actually listening to the conversations between customers, and in the end, they skillfully incorporated the content of the conversation into the communication. Thank you for the wonderful meal.

I was taken to this sushi restaurant by my senior colleague to celebrate my birthday. Located a short walk from Nakameguro in a residential area, the restaurant suddenly appears. I was looking forward to it as it's known for its Michelin one-star quality. Upon entering the restaurant, I was greeted by a stylish and chic atmosphere. The sushi, vegetable rolls, and firefly squid namero were not only visually appealing but also delicious! The post-meal tamago and tea set was also stylish and enjoyable. If given the chance, I would definitely like to visit this restaurant again for dinner next time.

I made a reservation about a month ago. The restaurant is located in a residential area in Naka-Meguro. I really like the interior and decorations with a woody atmosphere. This time, I ordered the lunch course (8,800 yen). The sushi rice has a perfect balance of fragrance, sweetness, and acidity. It's a bit firm, but it goes incredibly well with the richness of the toppings. My favorites were the sea urchin, scallop, and flatfish. Thank you for the delicious meal. I look forward to visiting again.