You've probably heard of the culinary term "Michelin Star". What does it take for a restaurant to gain such an honor? One star denotes very good cooking in its category, and Michelin recommends that you should try the food there if the restaurant is on your path. Two stars denote excellent cooking worth a detour, and three stars represent exceptional cuisine "worth a journey." If you find yourself in Tokyo and willing to spend some cash; luckily enough, the city holds the world record for the most Michelin-starred restaurants within a city, even beating Paris. Here's a list of a few of our favorite restaurants that are definitely worth the visit.
1. Ishikawa
This 3-Michelin-starred restaurant is hidden down a maze of alleys and streets in one of Tokyo's friendly neighbohood, and its location is so puzzling that staff even insist on finding and escorting lost customers to the restaurant. This friendliness continues within, as exceptional service and a relaxing atmosphere complement the food. Ishikawa is worth hunting down for its Sabo Hako sushi alone.
2. Azabu Yukimura
This 3-Michelin-starred restaurant, Azabu Yukimura, blends traditional kaiseki with contemporary twists and excellent presentation. Signature plates include mouthwatering combinations of lightly steamed sea urchin with lobster broth jelly, best enjoyed with the simple yet elegant interior of the restaurant.
3. Sushi Yoshitake
The restaurant respects the harmony, balance and traditional ideas behind sushi. The master chef stands directly in front of the diner, separated by a counter exactly two chopsticks wide (this is thought to preserve the balance between chef and diner). It is on this counter that the master chef creates sushi, which must be consumed by the diner within 30 seconds. The restaurant understands the value of properly made and consumed sushi, and even provides guidelines on sushi etiquette. Sushi Yoshitake provides a unique fusion of culture, tradition and cuisine worthy of the three Michelin stars it has been awarded.
4. Ginza Kojyu
Since its opening back in 2003, the kaiseki restaurant Ginza Kojyu has exceeded all expectations with its fresh seasonal menu, 60 various assortment of wine, Shizouka-brewed sake and even shochu. Savor the authentic Japanese flavors over multiple courses. The three-Michelin-starred venue is particularly small and is well known for its value for money, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
5. Usuki Fugu Yamadaya
Fugu, also known as Japanese puffer fish, is both a tasty yet deadly dish. They have parts that are highly toxic if eaten, which is why the chef who prepares the fugu must be very precise and thorough with both cleaning and cooking the puffer fish. Because of this, the restaurant is renowned for creating unforgettable dishes with this potentially poisonous fish. Head chef Fumie Yamada has undergone a 3-year apprenticeship and 10 years of training, making it the safest place to eat in Tokyo, despite the reputation of this delicacy. The fugu sashimi, sliced with expert precision, is not to be missed.
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