Sushidokoro Yamato

Sushidokoro Yamato: A Guide to This Tokyo Sushi Gem

Located right in the bustling heart of Tokyo, close to Tsukiji Station, Sushidokoro Yamato is a must-visit for anyone who loves sushi. This Michelin-selected spot, opened in 2021 by Chef Yamato Yasui, offers a unique dining experience that beautifully combines traditional Edomae-style sushi with a modern twist.

The Chef’s Story

Chef Yamato Yasui has sushi in his blood. Growing up in his father’s restaurant, he learned the ropes from some of the best in the business, including Takaaki Sugita of Sushi Sugita and Toru Okuda of Ginza Kojyu. After years of perfecting his craft, he finally opened Sushidokoro Yamato, a place that truly reflects his passion for authentic sushi traditions.

The Dining Experience

Ambiance

Walking into Sushidokoro Yamato, guests are welcomed by a traditional noren curtain. The warm and inviting atmosphere is created by clay walls and a wooden ceiling, making it the perfect setting for a memorable meal. The light-colored cypress counter seats just eight guests, allowing everyone to get up close and personal with the chef as he skillfully prepares each piece of sushi.

Menu

The omakase menu at Sushidokoro Yamato is a delightful journey through seasonal flavors. Each dish is crafted with care to highlight the freshest ingredients of the day. Some standout items include:

• Signature gizzard shad (kohada)
• Lightly cured seabream (kasugo)
• Simmered squid
• Rare scallops cooked in low-temperature sugar and soy sauce

Sake Selection

To enhance the meal, Chef Yasui offers a selection of over a dozen sake options, focusing on those with a good acidic flavor to complement the seafood. Don’t miss out on trying the restaurant’s original sake, crafted by Senkin Brewery in Tochigi Prefecture.

Unique Features

• Gizzard Shad: This delicate fish is a highlight at Sushidokoro Yamato. Yasui’s expertise shines through in every piece, showcasing his skill in balancing flavors and textures.
• Traditional Techniques: The rice is aged and cooked in a hagama pot, mixed with three types of vinegar. Each batch is prepared at slightly different temperatures to match the toppings.
• Personal Touches: The beautiful fugo basket, used to keep the rice warm, is a gift from Takaaki Sugita, adding a touch of history to the dining experience.

Practical Information

• Location: 5th Ginza West Tsukiji Building 1F, 3-7-2 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045
• Access: Just a 3-minute walk from Tsukiji Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
• Reservations: Required; cancel at least 4 days before your dining time for a full refund minus a 3.2% transaction fee
• Price: Lunch around ¥19,000, dinner between ¥35,000-50,000