Tabelog ratingSushi Matsumoto (鮨 まつ本) is a destination for sushi lovers, located in a quiet residential area of Nishinomiya in Hyogo Prefecture. Chef Matsumoto has earned a loyal following for an omakase experience that is both technically accomplished and warmly personal. The meal is a journey, starting with a series of creative small plates (tsumami) before moving on to classic Edomae-style nigiri.
Guests consistently praise the flow of the course and the quality of the ingredients. The tsumami often feature inventive touches, such as pâté of sweetfish (ayu) with baguette, or dried sea cucumber roe (bachi-ko) served with mochi. The nigiri that follows is precise, with the chef using different temperatures of rice (shari) and a white-vinegar blend to complement each topping. Standouts frequently mentioned by reviewers include the layered swordtip squid (kensaki-ika), a comparative tasting of two types of sea urchin (uni), minced tuna with scallion (negitoro), seared fatty tuna (aburi toro), and simmered conger eel (nianago).
Dinner is typically ¥20,000–¥29,999, with lunch from ¥15,000–¥19,999. Reviewers in 2024–2026 often reported paying around ¥22,000 to ¥24,000 for the omakase course, with couples paying between ¥48,500 and ¥65,000 with drinks. Despite the price, most diners consider it excellent value for the quality and quantity of food served. While the vast majority of reviews are glowing, a small number have noted occasional inconsistencies or raised minor hygiene concerns. The chef's friendly, unpretentious service, however, is almost universally applauded.
- Booking: Reservations are essential and must be made by phone, often one to three months in advance.
- Access: A 7-minute walk from Kurakuen-guchi Station.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Seating: The restaurant has just 10 counter seats. There are no private rooms.
- Service: The omakase course is served to all guests at once, with fixed start times for lunch and dinner. The meal typically lasts 90 to 120 minutes.
- Dress Code: Guests are asked to refrain from wearing perfume or strong fragrances.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid car parks nearby.
