Sukiyabashi Jiro

Michelin ☆☆☆

Probably the most famous sushi restaurant in the world, Sukiyabashi Jiro is run by sushi master Jiro Ono, who was the subject of David Gelb’s 2011 documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi. Hidden away next to Ginza Metro Station in Tokyo, Sukiyabashi Jiro holds three Michelin stars and is renowned for its exacting standards.

Ono goes to extreme lengths in the pursuit of sushi excellence, and apprentices must train for years before they are even allowed to handle the fish, let alone cut it.

Securing a reservation at the wooden 10-seater sushi bar is notoriously difficult and those lucky enough to get a seat do not have long to enjoy their meal, which is likely to take just half an hour and cost upwards of £200 per person. In return diners are treated to some of the best sushi on the planet, with a succession of beautifully presented and alluringly simple dishes

Jiro’s main branch is in Ginza, while his son Yoshikazu runs the sister restaurant in Roppongi (Michelin ☆☆), which is generally easier to book and has a more relaxed atmosphere.