Tabelog ratingSushi Fujinaga (鮓 ふじなが) offers a tightly staged, research-driven omakase that is as much a performance as it is a meal. Seated at a 12-seat counter in Azabujuban, guests watch as chef Fujinaga, speaking into a microphone, presents a procession of around 18 courses. The experience is known for its dramatic flair and technical precision, beginning with a signature piece: big-fin tuna (toro) prepared with dozens of fine hidden cuts and a layer of tuna paste between the fish and rice, creating a unique texture.
Reviewers consistently praise this opening course, along with top-tier Edomae-style nigiri like blackthroat seaperch (nodoguro) and botan shrimp (botan ebi). The menu alternates these classics with highly original small plates that showcase extensive preparation, such as seafood shumai, rich broths, and creative sea urchin (uni) presentations. Some of the more unconventional dishes include an ultra-thin, French-style cured ham and rockfish (kinki) in oyster sauce, culminating in a small ramen or miso soup to finish.
While many diners describe the meal as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, some find the chef’s performative style and the theatricality of the room off-putting. A minority of guests feel the cuisine leans very rich and heavy, and that the creative detours from traditional sushi may not appeal to purists. At this price point, a few questioned the overall value.
The omakase course is consistently reported by reviewers to be around ¥59,950. One recent guest noted a final bill of ¥69,410 including about five drinks. Takeaway options like bara-chirashi are also available and were priced around ¥5,000–¥6,000.
- Getting There: The restaurant is on the 4th floor of the Carte Blanche Azabu Juban building, about a 5-minute walk from Azabu-Juban Station.
- Reservations: Bookings are essential and can be difficult to secure, often requiring an introduction, though a small number of seats are sometimes released online. Service starts simultaneously for all guests, so punctuality is strictly required.
- Seating: There are 12 counter seats only. There are no private rooms.
- House Rules: The restaurant enforces strict rules. Please ask for permission before taking photos. Strong perfumes and scented products are forbidden. Smoking is not permitted, including leaving for smoke breaks. Guests are asked to stop conversations and listen during the chef's explanations.
- Payment: Major credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners, UnionPay) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Parking: There is no parking available.
