Toyosu’s Hidden Gem for Authentic Omakase and Market Tradition
Started as a seafood seller at 1940's
"Iwasa-Zushi"’s story begins long before it opened its doors to the public. Starting as a seafood shop in the 1940s, the business built deep connections with Tokyo’s vibrant fish market culture. For decades, it supplied fresh seafood to some of the city's finest establishments, honing its expertise in sourcing the best catch. In
1990, leveraging generations of market knowledge, A lady opened a restaurant in
Tsukiji, offering customers a direct taste of the market’s freshest selections. After the relocation of the wholesale market, the restaurant continued its tradition in
Toyosu, maintaining its close ties to the inner market.
OMAKASE: Trust the Chef
The highlight of dining at Iwasa-Zushi is undoubtedly the Omakase menu—a chef’s selection that changes with the day’s freshest ingredients. Rather than ordering à la carte, guests are invited to place their trust in the chef’s hands. This Japanese tradition ensures a unique and seasonal culinary experience every time. Iwasa-Zushi’s Omakase features a mix of sushi and delicate small plates, all sourced directly from Toyosu Markets. Each meal reflects not only the season but the chef’s intuition and artistry
Where Professionals and Passionate Food Lovers Gather
Iwasa-Zushi has earned quiet acclaim not only from celebrities and CEOs, but also from those who know the value of seafood best. Before sunrise, you might find the owner of a high-end Ginza restaurant at the counter, savoring the day's freshest catch. Sitting beside them could be a tuna fisherman from Aomori or a uni supplier from Hokkaido—industry insiders who rise early to taste what they themselves help bring to market. Alongside Hollywood stars and international dignitaries, these culinary professionals are drawn not by flash, but by trust: a belief in the skill of the chef and the honesty of his ingredients. There are no online reservations, no ornate décor—just quiet mastery, a humble setting, and sushi that speaks for itself.
Calligraphy and Seasonal menu
One striking feature of the restaurant is a piece of calligraphy by Soichiro Honda, the legendary founder of Honda Motor Company. His bold brushwork hangs proudly on the wall, a symbol of passion and innovation that resonates with the restaurant’s philosophy. This fusion of art and cuisine gives the space a quietly reflective atmosphere, where tradition and creativity coexist. For those who can read Japanese, the seasonal menu is written on the wall. For others, the friendly owner encourages guests to ask questions—a warm reminder that conversation is part of the dining experience.
Plan Your Visit: When and How
Iwasa-Zushi is open from 5:30 AM to 3:00 PM, making it an ideal destination for early risers, market visitors, or anyone seeking a satisfying breakfast or lunch. Seating is limited and reservations are generally not taken, so arriving early is recommended. The restaurant's location within the market complex may feel hidden at first, but it’s part of the charm—a true insider’s secret known to locals and seasoned travelers alike. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or simply curious, Iwasa-Zushi offers a memorable and deeply Japanese experience worth seeking out.
IWASA-ZUSHI
Closed on Wednesdays and Sundays
Open from 5:30am to 15:00
Cash and Credit Card
6-5 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan
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