Ginza Sushi Matsumoto: Experience Michelin-Starred Edomae Sushi in Tokyo's Ginza District
Ginza, known as one of Tokyo's representative tourist spots, is also famous as a shopping destination with many department stores and shopping malls lined up in this popular tourist area. Ginza is known for its luxurious atmosphere with numerous high-end brand stores.
Ginza is also famous for having many long-established, high-end restaurants. Particularly, sushi restaurants are abundant, ranging from luxurious establishments to reasonably priced venues, offering various types of sushi dining experiences.
In this article, we'll introduce Ginza Sushi Matsumoto, a Michelin one-star restaurant serving sushi and Japanese cuisine in Ginza, where high-level restaurants compete.
Ginza Sushi Matsumoto: A Particularly Popular Sushi and Japanese Restaurant Among Ginza's High-Level Establishments
Among the many high-level sushi restaurants competing daily in Ginza, Ginza Sushi Matsumoto is known as an especially popular sushi and Japanese cuisine establishment, having been featured in the Michelin Guide for two consecutive years in 2019 and 2020.
While they excel in traditional Edomae sushi using fish from Tokyo Bay, their creative dishes showcasing the chef's playful spirit are also popular. They are also particular about Japanese cuisine, receiving high praise for unique dishes such as rich clam soup and sea urchin wrapped in bigfin reef squid.
Additionally, they offer a wide selection of alcoholic beverages that pair well with the dishes, making it attractive for guests to enjoy their meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
5 Highlights of Why Ginza Sushi Matsumoto is Beloved
Supreme Edomae Sushi Created Through Carefully Selected Ingredients and the Chef's Years of Experience
Source:Official website
At Ginza Sushi Matsumoto, their traditional supreme Edomae sushi using seafood from Tokyo Bay waters has received high acclaim. The sushi, made with strictly selected ingredients and the chef's reliable technique based on years of experience, has captivated many food connoisseurs.
Their innovative sushi and dishes are all exquisite, making it the perfect restaurant for those who want to thoroughly enjoy the deliciousness of sushi while in Japan. The restaurant's atmosphere is wonderful, with a cypress counter seating area exuding a dignified ambiance.
While it may seem like a high-end establishment, the chef's thoughtfulness is outstanding, and he will answer any questions about the dishes. If you want to spend a luxurious moment while eating sushi, this is definitely a restaurant you should visit.
A Perfectly Calculated "Omakase Course" Combining Playful Appetizers and Edomae Sushi
Source:Official website
At Ginza Sushi Matsumoto, an omakase course that combines playful appetizer dishes with Edomae sushi is offered for both lunch and dinner. The course begins with an exquisite clam soup featuring rich dashi and ocean aromatics, helping guests ease any tension.
Other menu items include luxurious dishes using uni (sea urchin) from Aomori and Hokkaido prefectures, and premium blackthroat seaperch served over rice, offering varied dishes that captivate diners' hearts.
The dishes served in the omakase course vary each time, utilizing seasonal fish and ingredients, so you might enjoy unexpected culinary delights. Beyond just sushi, you can fully experience the excellence of Japanese cuisine, so please savor this wonderful experience.
A Space That Reflects Tradition with Attentive Hospitality
Source:Official website
Ginza Sushi Matsumoto's interior creates a comfortable atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy their meal. Opening the solemn cypress wood door reveals a quiet, dignified atmosphere away from Ginza's bustle.
While the refined atmosphere might initially feel intimidating, the sushi chef's warm smile quickly helps guests relax. The counter seats 8 people, and the tables are made from Nara Prefecture cypress wood, filling the restaurant with a pleasant aroma.
In addition to counter seating, there is one private room available, making it ideal for family trips.
Table Seating Available for Family Gatherings to Enjoy Sushi Together
Source:Official website
Ginza Sushi Matsumoto offers not only counter seating but also one private room. The four-person room comes with a door, creating an ideal space for business meals or dates.
The private room can accommodate from 2 guests and offers a quiet atmosphere away from urban noise. The staff provides the finest hospitality to help first-time visitors feel at ease, so please enjoy the premium sushi with peace of mind.
The private space allows for relaxed conversation while enjoying exceptional cuisine. As it's a popular seating option, early reservations are recommended.
English Menu Available with English-Speaking Staff for an Authentic Experience for Foreign Visitors
Ginza Sushi Matsumoto is a sushi restaurant that has earned one Michelin star for two consecutive years. With many foreign tourists visiting Japan, the restaurant provides English menus, making it accessible for non-Japanese speakers.
Some staff members speak English and can readily assist with questions about the cuisine or dining etiquette. While many might worry about chopstick use and other manners, there's no need for concern at Ginza Sushi Matsumoto.
The restaurant offers free Wi-Fi, and accepts both cash and credit cards for payment.
3 Recommended Courses to Enjoy at Ginza Sushi Matsumoto
Ginza Sushi Matsumoto is renowned for its Japanese cuisine using carefully selected ingredients. The course meals feature simmered dishes, Kyoto vegetables, and steamed dishes that showcase the excellence of Japanese cuisine.
Here are three recommended courses to enjoy at Ginza Sushi Matsumoto. Please use this as a reference when visiting, as the dishes served vary by course.
Premium Omakase Nigiri Course
Source:Official website
The Premium Omakase Nigiri (Omakasenigiri-Kiwami) Course features nigiri sushi made with seasonal ingredients carefully selected by the sushi chef. Beginning with shabu-shabu style fatty tuna nigiri, this course offers not only sushi but also selected Japanese dishes including premium Kyoto vegetables, sea urchin and squid somen noodles, and seasonal specialty dishes.
The nigiri sushi features various ingredients including white fish, kohada (gizzard shad), shrimp, salmon roe, and conger eel. Seasonal ingredients are offered throughout the year, ensuring the highest quality ingredients. Additionally, the steamed and fried side dishes (aizakana) are exquisite, allowing you to experience the excellence of Japanese cuisine.
Other dishes include nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), known as a premium fish, and purple sweet potato mixed tamago (egg omelet). Please note that course contents may vary depending on seasonal availability and ingredient procurement.
Course contents:
[1. Appetizer] Fatty tuna "shabu-shabu" nigiri
[2. Kyoto Vegetables] Direct-shipped Kyoto vegetables prepared in various ways
[3. Simmered Dish] Botan shrimp, simmered abalone
[4. Special] Sea urchin and squid somen noodle preparation
[5. Strong Side Dish (Shizakana)] Seasonal specialty
[6. Nigiri] White fish, kohada, spring fish, shrimp, salmon roe, tuna, shellfish, conger eel, etc.
[7. Comparison Tasting] Fatty tuna "seared" nigiri
[8. Side Dish (Aizakana)] Supreme specialty
[9. Grilled Dish] Seasonal grilled fish
[10. Special Dish] Small nodoguro bowl
[11. Steamed Dish] Chawanmushi (steamed egg custard)
[12. Rolled Sushi] Daily changing rolls
[13. Egg] Purple sweet potato egg omelet
[14. Final Soup (Tomewan)] Seasonal soup
[15. Dessert] Seasonal fruit
Superior Omakase Nigiri Course
Source:Official website
The Superior Omakase Nigiri (Omakasenigiri-jo) Course, available only during dinner hours, features sushi made with seasonal ingredients. The overall menu is similar to the Premium Omakase Nigiri Course mentioned above.
The main difference is in the simmered dish, where simmered octopus is served alongside simmered abalone. The octopus is slowly simmered at low temperature, resulting in an ideal texture and sweet aroma. Wasabi is placed on top of the octopus, enhancing the flavor when eaten together.
All sushi served is exquisite, featuring unique and premium ingredients. The creative dishes are all superb, making for an enjoyable dining experience. If you want to savor sushi in a refined, premium atmosphere, this course is highly recommended.
Course contents:
[1. Appetizer] Fatty tuna shabu-shabu nigiri
[2. Kyoto Vegetables] Direct-shipped Kyoto vegetables prepared in various ways
[3. Simmered Dish] Simmered octopus, simmered abalone
[4. Special] Sea urchin and squid somen noodle preparation
[5. Strong Side Dish (Shizakana)] Seasonal specialty
[6. Nigiri] White fish, kohada, spring fish, shrimp, salmon roe, tuna, shellfish, conger eel, etc.
[7. Grilled Dish] Seasonal grilled fish
[8. Special Dish] Small nodoguro bowl
[9. Steamed Dish] Chawanmushi
[10. Rolled Sushi] Daily changing rolls
[11. Egg] Purple sweet potato egg omelet
[12. Final Soup (Tomewan)] Seasonal soup
[13. Dessert] Seasonal fruit
[Lunch-Only Course]
Source:Official website
If you want to experience Ginza Sushi Matsumoto's omakase courses at a more reasonable price, consider booking the lunch-only course.
While dinner omakase courses range from 15,000 to 26,000 yen, this lunch-only course is available for 11,000 yen, offering premium sushi and Japanese dishes at a more affordable price than dinner.
The menu items such as nigiri sushi and sea urchin and squid somen noodles are the same as dinner courses. However, some popular dinner course items like the nodoguro bowl and simmered dishes are not included, so be sure to check the menu when making reservations.
At Ginza Sushi Matsumoto, lunch hours are 12:00-14:00 on both weekdays and weekends. Reservations fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so it's recommended to book well in advance.
Course contents:
[1. Appetizer] Fatty tuna shabu-shabu nigiri
[2. Kyoto Vegetables] Direct-shipped Kyoto vegetables prepared in various ways
[3. Special Dish] Sea urchin and squid somen noodle preparation
[4. Strong Side Dish (Shizakana)] Seasonal specialty
[5. Nigiri Sushi] White fish, silver-skinned fish, shellfish, salmon roe, kohada, tuna, conger eel, etc.
[6. Steamed Dish] Chawanmushi
[7. Rolled Sushi] Daily changing rolls
[8. Egg] Purple sweet potato egg omelet
[9. Final Soup (Tomewan)] Seasonal soup
[10. Dessert] Seasonal fruit
Experience Authentic Japanese Sushi with Expert Guidance - Best Enjoyed Through a Local-Guided Tour!
At Ginza Sushi Matsumoto and other prestigious establishments, you can savor tempura and sushi - Japan's globally renowned culinary treasures. This tour includes visits to Michelin-listed restaurants representing Ginza's finest dining experiences.
The tour is led by multilingual guides who are deeply knowledgeable about Japanese dining etiquette and culture, making it perfectly accessible even for first-time visitors to Japan.
Restaurants serve specially arranged course meals for tour participants, and guides provide tips on proper etiquette and techniques for fully appreciating Japanese cuisine, allowing you to relax and enjoy your dining experience.
The tour begins at a distinguished sushi restaurant, where you'll enjoy an omakase course prepared by master chefs using the finest seafood. Following this, you'll visit a Michelin-starred tempura restaurant to experience their exquisite tempura dishes.
To conclude the tour, your guide will introduce you to hidden gem restaurants in Ginza. Through my personal experience on this tour, I was able to connect with participants from various countries.
This tour offers an ideal way to create memorable experiences in Tokyo - don't miss out!
Meeting Point: In front of the lion statue at Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store
Tour Area: Ginza
Start Time: Weekdays 16:30, Weekends 15:30
While in Ginza, Savor Japan's Finest Wagyu!
For those interested in dining at Ginza's famous restaurants, consider joining a tour featuring wagyu beef and sake tasting.
The tour, guided by English-proficient Japanese guides well-versed in Japanese food culture and etiquette, takes you to restaurants serving A5-rank wagyu beef and establishments offering unlimited sake. There's no need to worry about language barriers or cultural protocols.
Starting from JR Shinbashi Station, the tour's first stop is a sake bar operated by Nara Prefecture, the birthplace of sake. Here, you can enjoy unlimited tastings of over 20 premium sake varieties for 30 minutes.
Afterward, you'll visit a teppanyaki restaurant in Ginza to indulge in premium A5-rank wagyu beef. Following dinner, your guide will walk you through Ginza, sharing insights about its landmarks and history.
This tour is perfect for those seeking a fulfilling culinary experience.
Meeting Point: In front of the black pillar near SAZA Coffee inside Ecute Edition Shinbashi, North Exit of JR Shinbashi Station
Tour Area: Shinbashi/Ginza/Yurakucho
Start Time: 17:00
