Tabelog ratingIchikawa (いちかわ) is a temple to tuna. This intimate, reservation-only sushi bar in a quiet residential corner of Minamiazabu dedicates its omakase course to showcasing this single fish in its highest form. The experience is built around the chef's singular focus and precise technique, with the meal often featuring six distinct pieces of tuna nigiri sourced from the famed Yamayuki wholesaler. Guests can expect to taste different cuts like lean akami, medium-fatty chutoro, and rich, melt-in-the-mouth ootoro, often served in pairs to highlight subtle variations. The rice, or shari, is seasoned with a restrained red vinegar that complements, rather than overpowers, the fish.
Reviewers consistently praise the exceptional quality of the tuna as the main event. Beyond that, the chef's masterful knife work on pieces like ika (squid), tender abalone, and creamy uni (sea urchin) rolls are frequently highlighted as perfect expressions of the Edo-mae style. The atmosphere is described as calm and focused, allowing diners to appreciate the chef's craft at the small L-shaped counter.
The main drawback noted by guests is the price, with some finding it expensive. As roughly half the nigiri course is tuna, a few reviewers wished for more variety. The one-chef service, while a draw for its precision, can mean less interaction than at other venues. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported the omakase course cost around ¥44,000, with final bills including sake reaching approximately ¥47,000. For diners who prioritise world-class tuna, Ichikawa is considered well worth the expense; for those seeking a broader range of seafood, it may feel less balanced.
- Getting There: Ichikawa is a 5-minute walk from Shirokanetakanawa Station on the Toei Mita Line. The entrance is unmarked and located on a quiet residential street, so it can be easy to miss.
- Reservations: Reservations are mandatory. The restaurant has a strict policy: arriving more than 30 minutes late is treated as a no-show with a 100% cancellation fee.
- Seating: The restaurant has just 8 counter seats. Service is typically a single seating per evening, often starting at 6:00 PM.
- Service: Expect a one-chef operation with minimal assistance, which dictates the pace of the meal.
- Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners, UnionPay) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking is available.
