If you followed the Saitama food scene, you knew Sushi Inomata. After a decade of dominance in Kawaguchi, Chef Takeshi Inomata moved his operation to Tokyo in February 2025, rebranding as Kojimachi Nihei. While the name and the neighborhood have changed, the philosophy remains exactly the same: No appetizers. No side dishes. Just elite nigiri.
The Bonito: Truly legendary. It is widely considered some of the best in Japan—smoky, buttery, and intense.
 |
| Soya marinated tuna |
The Vibe
For those who find the endless small plates of a typical Omakase distracting, this is paradise. Chef Inomata focuses entirely on the synergy between his bold, vinegared rice and top-tier fish. The new space in Kojimachi is sleek and elevated—a serious "sushi temple" atmosphere where photography is strictly prohibited inside (you can only snap a photo of the entrance sign!).
The Price Jump
Moving from Saitama to Tokyo came with a heavy premium. The course that used to cost around ¥44,000 has jumped to ¥66,000 (plus a 5% service charge). It’s a steep hike, but it covers the prime location and an even more rigorous selection of ingredients with longer menu.
The Food
It is unforgettable. The chef is a master of aging and marinating.
Soya-Marinated Tuna: Deep, rich, and perfectly balanced. |
| Beautifully marinated Akami |
The Bonito: Truly legendary. It is widely considered some of the best in Japan—smoky, buttery, and intense.
 |
| Mind blowing Bonito |
The Service
Chef Inomata and his wife continue to run the show, maintaining that friendly, welcoming energy that makes the high price tag feel a bit more personal.
Verdict: The ultimate pilgrimage for those who want their sushi "straight up." It’s expensive and the move to Tokyo doubled the price for some, but the quality of that Bonito alone makes it a bucket-list meal.
Rating
Food: 5/5 — Some of the most technically perfect nigiri in the world. The bonito is life-changing.
Service: 4/5 — Warm, professional, and very helpful despite the high-end setting.
Food: 5/5 — Some of the most technically perfect nigiri in the world. The bonito is life-changing.
Service: 4/5 — Warm, professional, and very helpful despite the high-end setting.
Decor: 4/5 — Based on old Saitama experience
Value: 3/5 — ¥44,000 (not to mention its ¥66,000 now) even with such high quality food
Value: 3/5 — ¥44,000 (not to mention its ¥66,000 now) even with such high quality food
Overall: 4.25/5 — If you only care about the fish, rice and have the budget, this is your spot.
Estimated Cost: ¥66,000+ per person.
Info:
3-5-19 Kojimachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0083 (Nishikawa Bldg. 1F)
vEstimated Cost: ¥66,000+ per person.
Info:
3-5-19 Kojimachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0083 (Nishikawa Bldg. 1F)
Comments
Post a Comment