Hato

Tokyo, Japan

Spots aren't easy to come by at Daichi Kumakiri’s eight-seat counter, prized by the city's sushi connoisseurs and a favourite with off-duty chefs. Trained at Amamoto – another industry favourite – Kumikiri is best-known for his exemplary snacks and small plates: sea bream with lotus-root cake, perhaps, or spring chrysanthemum sushi. The nigiri, too, is next-level, whether it’s buttery bluefin chutoro (the cut between the belly and back) or sweet, briny surf clams(hokkigai). It’s a no-choice omakase menu, but you’re in the safest of hands: the succession of dishes is perfectly paced and always expertly balanced. Keen to take your seat at the counter? Be prepared to stalk a reservation on the booking platforms, or ask if your hotel concierge can help – ideally, a few weeks ahead.

Key Information

• Tasting menu from $282
• Lunch: Sat Dinner: Tues – Sat
• 81 3 6280 7141
• Visit Hato's Website

Location

6-Chome−21, block 6, building number 21, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-0825