Tabelog ratingSano Sushi (佐野鮨) is an intimate, seven-seat counter in Shiba run by a husband-and-wife team. It has quickly gained a reputation among Tokyo's sushi aficionados for its commitment to exceptional ingredients, most notably its use of top-tier tuna from the famed supplier Fujita (フジタ). The experience is a concise and well-paced omakase, featuring a distinctive shari (sushi rice) made with red vinegar, which is served deliberately firm and in larger portions.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the seafood. The Fujita maguro, in all its forms from lean akami to fatty otoro, is a highlight. Other standout items frequently mentioned by reviewers include seasonally rare aka uni (red sea urchin), glistening ikura (salmon roe), and expertly prepared classics like kohada (gizzard shad) and anago (sea eel). The creative tsumami (appetizers) are also a feature, with dishes like a unique chawanmushi with squid and tomato or a rich ankimo (monkfish liver) setting the stage for the nigiri course.
While most diners praise the warm hospitality, particularly from the hostess who often translates for non-Japanese guests, a few have noted occasional brusqueness from the chef. The style of nigiri—with its large, noticeably vinegary shari—is a matter of taste and may not suit those who prefer smaller, more neutral-tasting rice. The base course is compact, and diners with larger appetites may wish to order additional pieces.
For the quality on offer, Sano Sushi is considered excellent value. Reviewers recently paid around ¥11,000 for the lunch nigiri course. Evening omakase courses were reported between ¥25,300 and ¥27,500, with final bills including drinks and extra items typically landing between ¥25,000 and ¥36,000 per person.
- Booking: Reservations are essential and can be made via Instagram DM (TableCheck) or by phone. The lunch seating is often easier to book.
- Seating: The restaurant has just 7 counter seats.
- Getting There: Sano Sushi is a 2-minute walk from Shibakoen Station (Toei Mita Line), Exit A1.
- Payment: Credit cards are accepted, but electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Service: The hostess often provides English explanations. The chef can adjust the size and vinegar level of the shari upon request.
- Facilities: The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Parking is not available.
