Tabelog ratingIn a quiet residential area of Fukuoka, Funakoshi (船越) offers a destination sushi experience in an intimate, eight-seat setting. Housed in a renovated home with a tatami-style counter, the restaurant provides a two-part omakase that has won consistent praise. The meal begins with a series of otsumami (appetizers) on par with high-end Japanese cuisine, before moving on to the main event: nigiri sushi built around fish sourced from the waters of Kyushu.
Reviewers repeatedly highlight the quality of the opening courses, which might include abalone broth, mantis shrimp (shako), or house-made karasumi (cured mullet roe). The sushi sequence that follows is noted for the chef's precise control over the temperature and aroma of the shari (sushi rice). Standout nigiri often mentioned include local red uni, kuruma-ebi (prawn), tai (sea bream), shima-aji (striped jack), and anago (sea eel). The service is described as warm and unpretentious, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
The main challenge for visitors is logistics. Reservations are by phone only, and with very few seats, they must be made well in advance. All guests are served at a single start time, so punctuality is key. The location is also a 15- to 20-minute walk from the nearest station. While most guests find the omakase to be excellent value, one recent reviewer noted high charges for extras like sake and additional nigiri, so it is wise to confirm prices before ordering.
The omakase course costs around ¥22,000, which reviewers note comes to ¥24,200 with tax. Recent guest bills show a total of ¥55,000 for two people, and ¥65,000 for another party of two who ordered extras. An additional piece of nigiri can cost around ¥2,000, and sake has been reported at over ¥2,000 per serving.
- Reservations: Reservations are mandatory and can only be made by phone. Booking well in advance is strongly recommended due to the limited seating.
- Getting There: Funakoshi is in a residential area, a 15–20 minute walk from Takamiya Station. Taking a taxi is recommended. Parking is available.
- Seating: All guests are seated at the 8-person counter and served at the same time.
- Etiquette: Guests must remove their shoes to sit at the tatami-style counter.
- Payment: Credit cards are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
