Tabelog ratingPRIMO PASSO (PRIMO PASSO) offers a unique proposition in Tokyo's fine dining scene: a pasta-first omakase. At his intimate counter in Tsukiji, Chef Fujioka, who trained at the acclaimed Quattro Passi, applies technical Italian skill to Japanese seasonal ingredients and dashi, creating a tasting menu where pasta is the star. A typical 10- to 13-course meal features three to five distinct pasta dishes, showcasing a remarkable range of creativity.
Guests consistently praise the theatrical presentation and inventive dishes. Signature plates include a hot, three-cheese fried pizza finished with paper-thin prosciutto, and the 'cappuccino' pasta, a rich dish cleverly served in a coffee cup. Other highlights often mentioned are cold capellini with clams and a koji-dashi, tomato ringuine, and delicate gnocchi. The adventurous wine and non-alcoholic pairings are also frequently lauded, as is the staff's willingness to explain each course in English for international visitors.
The main point of criticism is the meal's length, which can stretch to three hours; some diners find the pacing slow at times. While the experience is overwhelmingly positive, a few isolated reviews have noted an underseasoned meat course or uneven service.
Reviewers in 2024-2026 reported paying between ¥16,500 and ¥19,800 for the omakase course, with wine pairings an additional ¥9,900 to ¥13,200. Most diners find the total spend of ¥20,000–¥29,999 to be excellent value for the quality and creativity, especially for a Michelin-level counter experience in Tokyo.
- Booking: Reservations are essential and must be made far in advance, often by several months.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 2-minute walk from Shintomicho Station (Exit 1), a 4-minute walk from Tsukiji Station (Exit 4), or a 6-minute walk from Higashi-Ginza Station (Exit A7).
- Seating: The space features an 8-seat counter and a private room for up to 6 guests.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners, UnionPay) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not. A 10% service charge is added to the bill.
- Children: Children are welcome, but this must be arranged at the time of booking.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking is available.
