Sushi Yuki

Restaurant Details

One man’s loss is another’s gain, indeed. When Sushi Yuki relocated from Yokohama to Hiroo, Tokyo’s gourmet folks embraced them with enthusiasm. The restaurant is entering a new age under the leadership of third-generation, owner-chef Hayashinouchi Yuki. And, judging by the decision to change the store name after himself, the only way is up.

For the sushi, Hayashinouchi still takes cues from his predecessors while putting a sharp focus on his individual take. The long, narrow room with eight seats lined against the counter draws the eye first; the pared-back interior second. It mirrors Hayashinouchi’s inclination to serve a streamlined omakase course of up to 12 nigiri sushi but it's also here that excellent appetizers become a scene of its own. Boiled flathead is pale-hued and hits with tangy ponzu sauce. An assortment of sashimi follows the old-school technique of processing — Spanish mackerel is pickled with vinegar and mantis shrimp is boiled.

Even the appetizers stand out. Boiled flathead, dressed in a tangy ponzu sauce, is a delicate, pale-hued delight. An assortment of sashimi adheres to traditional Edomae techniques: Spanish mackerel is pickled with vinegar, and mantis shrimp is gently boiled.

But what really lifts Sushi Yuki’s course is, of course, its perfectly executed nigiri pieces. The plump sushi rice, with just the right amount of bite, is seasoned with Mizkan Shiragiku rice vinegar. Each morsel is carefully portioned to ensure guests do not struggle for the final pieces during the course. Thick, succulent sea bream is marinated in kelp, while red tuna is sourced from a trusted wholesaler at Toyosu Market. Tiger prawn is boiled and allowed to cool, resulting in a delightfully bouncy texture.

Much of Sushi Yuki’s essence is inherited from its previous owners, but it’s the attention to detail, authenticity and spot-on service from Hayashinouchi that make it a winner.

Michelin Guide accolades:

2024 - Michelin Selected

※ Please note that Sushi Yuki is formerly Tokiwa Sushi and has recently moved to a new address in Shibuya.