If you are a sushi enthusiast or a lover of fine dining, Tokyo’s Sukiyabashi Jiro is an absolute must-visit.
Famous for its meticulous attention to detail, exceptional quality of sushi, and the legendary status of its chef, Jiro Ono, this restaurant is a dream come true for many foodies around the world.
In this blog post, we will dive into everything you need to know about Sukiyabashi Jiro, its history, the experience, and what makes it one of the finest sushi restaurants in the world.
Sukiyabashi Jiro is not just a place to eat—it’s an experience that every culinary tourist should check off their bucket list. But is it worth the hype? Let’s explore.
The Legacy of Sukiyabashi Jiro
The History
Sukiyabashi Jiro was founded by Jiro Ono in 1965 in the Ginza district of Tokyo. Jiro, who is often regarded as one of the greatest sushi chefs in the world, has dedicated his life to perfecting the art of sushi making. Over the years, the restaurant gained fame for its incredible quality and precision. Sukiyabashi Jiro was awarded three Michelin stars, a rare and prestigious honor, solidifying its place as a global culinary landmark.
Jiro Ono’s Philosophy
Jiro Ono’s philosophy is deeply rooted in perfection. From selecting the finest fish to preparing each piece of sushi with exacting precision, every detail at Sukiyabashi Jiro is carefully considered. Jiro’s sushi is crafted with a meticulous approach to every ingredient, ensuring an extraordinary experience for guests.
Jiro’s commitment to his craft is evident in his continuous work ethic, even at the age of 99 in 2025. His attention to detail has turned Sukiyabashi Jiro into a culinary mecca, attracting food lovers from around the globe.
The Dining Experience at Sukiyabashi Jiro
A Traditional Sushi Bar Experience
Dining at Sukiyabashi Jiro is unlike any other sushi experience. The restaurant is designed in a minimalist fashion, with only 10 seats around an intimate counter. The focus is solely on the sushi, with no distractions, allowing diners to fully appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of the sushi chef.
The Omakase Menu
At Sukiyabashi Jiro, there is no à la carte menu. The meal is served as an Omakase, meaning “chef’s choice.” The Omakase experience at Sukiyabashi Jiro is a journey through a series of sushi courses, with each piece carefully prepared and served to you by Jiro or his son, Yoshikazu Ono. The Omakase course often consists of around 20 pieces of sushi, ranging from the freshest fish to perfectly seasoned rice. Each bite is a revelation, with the delicate balance of flavors making every moment memorable.
The Famous “Jiro Shari” (Rice)
One of the secrets behind Sukiyabashi Jiro’s exceptional sushi is its rice, known as “Jiro Shari.” The rice is prepared with a unique blend of vinegar, salt, and sugar, creating a slightly sweet, tangy, and perfectly sticky texture. This attention to detail in rice preparation is crucial in making the sushi truly stand out.
Price and Reservation
Given its prestigious status, Sukiyabashi Jiro comes with a hefty price tag. The price for a meal can range from 40,000 to 50,000 yen per person, depending on the course and time of reservation. It is important to note that reservations are difficult to secure due to high demand, so planning ahead is essential.
Tip: Make reservations several months in advance to guarantee a spot. Alternatively, you can book through a concierge service at luxury hotels in Tokyo to help facilitate the reservation process.
What Makes Sukiyabashi Jiro Stand Out?
Precision and Quality
At Sukiyabashi Jiro, precision is the key to perfection. Every ingredient, from the fish to the rice, is carefully sourced and prepared to ensure the highest quality. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence has earned it a reputation as the best sushi restaurant in Tokyo and one of the top in the world.
The Influence of the Documentary
The 2011 documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi played a pivotal role in catapulting Sukiyabashi Jiro into global fame. Directed by David Gelb, the film gave the world an inside look at Jiro Ono’s dedication to his craft, his family legacy, and his relentless pursuit of perfection. After the documentary’s release, Sukiyabashi Jiro became a bucket-list destination for sushi lovers around the world.
A Family Legacy
In 2025, Jiro Ono’s son, Yoshikazu Ono, is now the head chef at Sukiyabashi Jiro. While Jiro Ono continues to oversee the restaurant, Yoshikazu has taken the reins and has proven to be just as skilled in the art of sushi making. The restaurant continues to uphold the family legacy, with both Jiro and Yoshikazu ensuring that every piece of sushi served meets the highest standards of excellence.
Tips for Visiting Sukiyabashi Jiro
- Reservations are Key: As mentioned, reservations are hard to come by, so plan ahead and book early.
- Prepare for the Price: Be prepared for a premium price, but know that the experience is well worth the investment.
- Come Hungry: The Omakase experience is a multi-course meal, so come with an empty stomach and be ready for a full sushi experience.
- Respect the Tradition: Sukiyabashi Jiro is a traditional sushi restaurant with an intimate and respectful atmosphere. Be mindful of the quiet and focused dining experience.
Conclusion
If you consider yourself a sushi connoisseur or are simply looking to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience in Tokyo, Sukiyabashi Jiro is the place to go. Its combination of precision, quality, and tradition makes it an unparalleled destination for culinary tourists and sushi lovers alike. Though it requires patience and investment, the experience at Sukiyabashi Jiro is one that will stay with you long after the last piece of sushi is served.