If you’re a sushi lover, Sukiyabashi Jiro (すきやばし次郎) in Tokyo is often considered the ultimate dining destination. This legendary Edo-style sushi restaurant, helmed by the world-renowned chef Jiro Ono, has captivated food enthusiasts around the globe. In this review, I’ll share my unforgettable experience at Sukiyabashi Jiro and offer some insider tips on securing a coveted reservation.
A Culinary Icon
Sukiyabashi Jiro has been praised as one of the best sushi restaurants in Japan—and the world. From 2007 to 2019, it held a prestigious three-star rating in the Michelin Guide. The restaurant, located in Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district, has been operated by Jiro Ono since it opened in 1965. At 93 years old (as of 2019), Jiro Ono is still serving sushi with the help of his son Yoshikazu Ono.
Although Sukiyabashi Jiro was removed from the Michelin Guide in 2020 due to its exclusive booking policy, the restaurant remains iconic. Not only did A-list celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tom Cruise, David Beckham, and Anne Hathaway visit, but it was also a favorite of the famous French chef Joël Robuchon. In 2014, even former U.S. President Barack Obama and Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe dined there together.
The 2011 documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi made Sukiyabashi Jiro famous worldwide. If you plan to visit, I highly recommend watching it to gain a deeper appreciation for Jiro’s meticulous approach to sushi.
My Special Experience at Sukiyabashi Jiro
Booking a seat at Sukiyabashi Jiro is notoriously tricky. Only ten seats are available, with a waiting list of 400–500 people. The restaurant does not accept direct bookings via phone or its website, and reservations are typically made through luxury hotels or exclusive travel agencies.
The experience is not just about the food but also the tradition, discipline, and care Jiro has put into perfecting his craft for decades. It was undoubtedly one of the best dining experiences of my life.
How to Make a Reservation at Sukiyabashi Jiro
Since Sukiyabashi Jiro does not accept direct reservations, here’s how you can increase your chances of securing a seat:
1. Use a Luxury Hotel Concierge: Many high-end hotels in Tokyo can assist guests in securing a reservation at Sukiyabashi Jiro. This is one of the most reliable ways to book a seat.
2. Travel Agencies: Select travel agencies offer special dining packages, including a meal at Sukiyabashi Jiro. I used one of these to secure my reservation.
3. Connections: If you have contacts in Japan or know someone who has previously dined at the restaurant, they may be able to assist with the booking process.
Dining at Sukiyabashi Jiro was an unforgettable experience that would recommend to any sushi lover. While booking a seat may seem impossible, it’s worth the effort to have the chance to experience the world’s finest sushi crafted by a living legend.
