Minato City, Tokyo, Japan｜Sushi Issei

This is an intimate little sushi bar in a really relaxing setting. Came here with a group of 5 and got the chef’s recommended set. We don’t speak much Japanese, but could still order easily. We had a great time trying a lot of new things - fresh wasabi, house-made white soy sauce, octopus, eel, sea urchin - and every one was excellent! The chef didn’t speak English, but the hostess/server was happy to answer questions about everything. Both were really lovely. Will definitely visit again next time I’m in Tokyo!

This was the most serene, ethereal dining experience I’ve ever had the opportunity to partake in. Only downside is limited seating, when more people need to go here. First of all, the sushi had such immaculate texture and flavor. Unlike other places where you just order and eat, it’s each bite is catered with sauces, or salt in addition. The waitress was immensely kind and helpful, directing you how to eat each fish, what you should eat it with, and so on. She is very accommodating, wiping your white paper mat, clearing your area, and taking saucers. When directed to the bathroom, its cleanliness was refreshing, it was a sanctuary of relief. Moving onto the chef, he is the most humble man alive. Although some reviews mentioned him as grumpy, if you look past someone’s facial expressions, you can actually tell who they really are. And this man was so, so nice. The delicate slicing of the fish, the mastered movements of during frying and searing. When I went to the bathroom, he waited for me to come back to prepare my shrimp nigiri. And when all was said and done, they walked us out the door, and onto the street again thanking us. I’ve never felt so at home at a restaurant. If you can’t speak Japanese, please, please, use Google Translate to thank the chef for all his efforts. Please consider my comments, and go dine there.

We ate here late one night without a reservation (9pm). The chef and server were quite nice and very accommodating for a late night dinner. The sushi was amazing. I would recommend this place