Tabelog ratingSoshi (壮士) is the stage for chef Sata, whose past as a fish wholesaler informs every part of his distinctive omakase. The menu is a tribute to the Setouchi Inland Sea, showcasing rare local species that rarely appear on menus elsewhere. The experience is a polished take on regional Edomae style, beginning with a series of inventive small plates before moving to a sequence of compact, precisely formed nigiri.
Guests consistently praise the exceptional quality and variety of the seafood, with highlights including local white sweet bream, swordtip squid, and rich red sea urchin. The creative small plates are just as memorable, with reviewers singling out dishes like monkfish liver (ankimo), and thick-cut mullet roe (karasumi) served with fried sushi rice. The small, well-tempered rice (shari), sometimes seasoned with liver or miso, and the thoughtful sake pairings also draw high praise.
While overwhelmingly positive, some reviews note minor issues. The simultaneous start time for all guests can feel rushed to some, and a few found certain courses had overly subtle seasoning. As is common with in-demand restaurants, there are isolated mentions of overlooked dietary requests or a feeling that regulars receive preferential treatment.
Expect to pay around ¥20,000–¥29,999 for dinner. Recent reviewers report the omakase course is priced at about ¥22,000, with a final bill around ¥25,300 including drinks. This course has included premium items like carabebi shrimp and red uni. Most diners feel Soshi offers excellent value, considering the high quality of the ingredients, the chef's craft, and the inclusion of unusual local fish.
- Reservations: Essential and very difficult to secure. Bookings are handled exclusively online via the OMAKASE website, often months in advance. Phone reservations are not accepted.
- Seating: The restaurant has 14 counter seats only. Service is in two sessions (usually 18:00 and 20:30) that start simultaneously for all guests. Late arrivals are not permitted.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted at the restaurant. Note that online reservations made via Pocket Concierge may allow for credit card pre-payment.
- Children: Children of elementary school age and older are welcome if they eat the same full course as adults.
- Language: Expect service and dish explanations to be primarily in Japanese.
- Getting there: Soshi is a 3-5 minute walk from Tatemachi Station on the Hiroshima Electric Railway.
