Sukiyabashi Jiro: How to Book & the Jiro Lineage

A world-renowned sushi restaurant that epitomizes Japanese cuisine.

One could say that it was Sukiyabashi Jiro who introduced the world to the true artistry of Japanese sushi. Today, it stands as one of the most famous sushi restaurants in the world.

A sushi master brought to global fame by a documentary

The owner and head chef of Sukiyabashi Jiro, Jiro Ono, became the oldest chef to receive Michelin’s coveted three-star rating in 2008. He gained acclaim in the West in 2011 with the release of the documentary 'Jiro Dreams of Sushi', directed by American filmmaker, David Gelb. In 2014, the restaurant garnered even more global attention when then-U.S. President Barack Obama and Shinzo Abe, the Japanese Prime Minister at the time, dined at Sukiyabashi Jiro, where Jiro Ono personally served them sushi.

Jiro is also renowned for impressing the legendary French chef Joël Robuchon, who was initially skeptical about the simple combination of rice and fish that is sushi. Robuchon later declared, “The simpler the food, the harder it is to prepare it well” acknowledging the artistry of Jiro’s sushi. Until the spring of 2024, Jiro Ono was still active at the restaurant even at the age of 98, but his recent absence has left his loyal patrons concerned.

Features of Sukiyabashi Jiro Restaurant

Quick Service

Sukiyabashi Jiro is renowned for the speed at which its sushi is served. Diners often find themselves trying to keep up as the sushi arrives at a brisk pace. With around 10 to 15 pieces served in about 30 minutes, the meal is completed in less than half the time of a typical sushi counter experience.

Green Tea

Sukiyabashi Jiro believes that green tea, not alcohol, is the best accompaniment for sushi. As such, tea is the recommended drink and is served complimentary. Due to the swift pace of the meal, sipping alcohol at leisure isn't the focus. That said, alcohol is available for those who prefer it and can be ordered upon request.

Pioneer of the Omakase Sushi Course

Head chef Jiro Ono is credited with popularizing the omakase (chef's choice)-style, and Sukiyabashi Jiro serves only an omakase course. Before the meal begins, guests receive a menu outlining the day’s selections. The typical course starts with white fish, followed by a trio of tuna: akami (lean), chutoro (medium fatty), and otoro (fatty) tuna.

Price

The price of the course has recently increased to about ¥ 60,000, primarily due to rising fish costs, especially tuna.

Photography

Photography is not permitted in the restaurant.

Focus yet Welcoming

The speed of service and limited conversation at the counter creates a somewhat serious and focused atmosphere. Yet Jiro Ono pays close attention to east guest. He observes the customer's dominant hand, eating style, and how much they can comfortably consume. This allows him to tailor the experience to each guest, allowing them to enjoy their meal in a relaxed manner.

How to Make a Reservation at Sukiyabashi Jiro

Due to the difficulty of securing a reservation, Sukiyabashi Jiro no longer holds three Michelin stars.

From 2008 to 2019, the restaurant consistently held three stars, but it was removed from the rating system because the general public found it hard to reserve. While making a reservation at this world-class restaurant can undeniably be quite challenging, Yoshikazu Ono, the eldest son of Jiro Ono and co-manager of the main restaurant, asserts, "It's not impossible."

How Visitors to Japan Can Make Reservations

Visitors to Japan are advised to make reservations through their hotel's concierge. A passport or another form of photo ID is required, so be sure to bring these with you on the day of your reservation.

If you cancel, international guests will be required to pay a penalty through their hotel concierge.

Many Branches and Related Restaurants

Jiro Ono is renowned for his ability to train disciples, many of whom opened branches or their own independent restaurants after training at Sukiyabashi Jiro. Including those trained by his disciples, there are now over ten restaurants in this lineage.

Sukiyabashi Jiro Branch Locations

A few restaurants are operating under the Sukiyabashi Jiro name.

Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi

The Roppongi branch is run by Takashi Ono, the second son of Jiro Ono, making it a true family-run extension of the original. Jiro Ono once said, "I didn’t put him in charge just because he’s my son. I did it because I believed he was the right person for the job."

Located in Roppongi Hills, a culinary hotspot that draws discerning food enthusiasts, this branch stands out even amongother high-end establishments, including renowned tempura and Italian restaurants. Like the main location, it serves only an omakase (chef’s choice) menu, offering two options: one featuring just nigiri (hand pressed) sushi, and another that also includes sashimi appetizers. The rice follows the same vinegared recipe as the flagship store, delivering a bold, well-defined flavor. Both the nigiri and rolls are outstanding, reflecting the chef’s skill and expertise. The head chef is friendly and talkative, and has a deep respect for his father, Jiro Ono, often sharing stories about him with guests. Prices here are also slightly more accessible than at the main branch.

How to Make a Reservation at Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi

Reservations at the Roppongi branch open on the 25th, two months in advance (e.g., January 25th for dates in March). Chef Takashi explains that reservations start five days earlier than at the main Ginza branch to show appreciation to those who choose the Roppongi location. He also notes that the atmosphere at the Roppongi branch is slightly more relaxed compared to the Ginza branch. While the Roppongi branch offers the same omakase course as the main branch, the price is slightly lower.

Online Reservations:

The Roppongi branch accepts reservations online, but selecting a slot alone does not guarantee a reservation. After you choose a slot, the online service will contact the restaurant to confirm availability. If a seat is available, the reservation will be finalized, and the course fee will be automatically charged to your registered credit card.

Phone Reservations

For phone reservations, as with the main branch, first-time customers must complete a bank transfer of the course fee to confirm their booking.

Other Sukiyabashi Jiro branches tend to have more flexible reservation policies.

Sukiyabashi Jiro Nihonbashi

Sukiyabashi Jiro Nihonbashi offers a more accessible way to experience the renowned Sukiyabashi Jiro. This location features table seating and individual sushi sets, making it easier to enjoy a casual meal. A unique offering is the chirashi-zushi (a bowl of sushi rice topped with a variety of fresh ingredients), which isn’t available at the main or Roppongi locations. The sushi rice boasts a distinct, tangy vinegar flavor, consistent with the style of the main branch, and the pickled ginger is similarly bold. The omakase counter experience is also more affordable compared to other branches. Please note that reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait in line. Because it’s located within the prestigious Nihonbashi Takashimaya department store, the restaurant is busiest during lunchtime, and evening hours may be shorter, so plan accordingly.

Sukiyabashi Jiro Toyosu

Sukiyabashi Jiro Toyosu offers the opportunity to enjoy sushi at a great value. While the lunch menu features only one option and cannot be reserved, it remains very reasonably priced. Dinner is an omakase course, beginning with several appetizers before moving on to sushi. A selection of alcohol is available, but it includes only a few carefully curated brands. The pace of service follows the tradition of the main restaurant, with the same exceptional sushi-making technique. Its location also makes it easy to combine a visit with Toyosu Wholesale Market.

The three branches mentioned above are part of the Sukiyabashi Jiro lineage. However, it's worth noting another significant establishment that has now closed but contributed significantly to the Sukiyabashi Jiro legacy.

Sukiyabashi Jiro Yokohama (Closed)

Sukiyabashi Jiro Yokohama was an acclaimed restaurant opened by Hachiro Mizutani, who trained at the original Sukiyabashi Jiro. The establishment quickly gained popularity for its sushi, which follows the style of the main store. Mizutani later expanded to Ginza, where he opened Sushi Mizutani. This new restaurant attracted many fans and earned three Michelin stars, becoming a highly sought-after dining destination. However, it closed in 2016, much to the dismay of its loyal patrons. Hachiro Mizutani also appeared in the film "Jiro Dreams of Sushi", where he spoke about Jiro Ono and his two sons. Furthermore, Yuki Hayashinouchi, who trained at Sushi Mizutani and served as the second chef, has since taken over the family restaurant Tokiwa Sushi in Yokohama as its third-generation owner.

The Sukiyabashi Jiro Lineage

Sukiyabashi Jiro is undoubtedly one of the most famous sushi restaurants in the world and well worth a visit. However, guests are typically expected to finish their meal within 30 minutes, and reservations are extremely difficult to secure. Below we've curated a list of restaurants run by chefs who trained at Sukiyabashi Jiro. These restaurants are also highly renowned, but offer the opportunity to enjoy some of the country's finest sushi at a more relaxed pace.

Harutaka (青空)

1. Michelin (2024): Three Stars
2. Michelin (2015, 2019 - 23): Two Stars
3. Michelin (2008 - 14, 2017, 18): One Star

The sushi at Harutaka showcases top-quality ingredients and expertly seasoned rice, reflecting the traditions of Sukiyabashi Jiro.

Head chef Harutaka Takahashi, who hails from Hokkaido, is known for his strong personality and passion for sushi. This enabled him to endure the rigorous training at Sukiyabashi Jiro and earned him the respect of Jiro Ono and his two sons.

The restaurant has also earned serious recognition, holding two Michelin stars from 2019 to 2023 and three stars from 2024 to 2026.

They offer only an omakase course, starting with a few appetizers, which are themselves a highlight, and about ten pieces of sushi. The drinks menu also offers an impressive selection including sake and wine.

Make a Reservation

Koharu (こはる)

Koharu is a stand out within the Sukiyabashi Jiro lineage.

Located in Ginza, the restaurant was opened in 2021 by Toshiyuki Kurita. Kurita spent 15 years training at Harutaka. As Harutaka Takahashi's protégé, he represents a new generation in the Sukiyabashi Jiro lineage.

The restaurant offers two omakase courses. One features a balanced selection of appetizers and nigiri sushi, while the other focuses more on the nigiri sushi with fewer small dishes.

The chef's appreciation of alcoholic drinks is reflected in the thoughtfully curated drink selection.On weekends, guests who order the omakase course will receive a complimentary glass of champagne. Takahashi is so proud of his protégé that he wrote the restaurant’s introduction on its website.

Make a Reservation

Sushi Masuda (鮨 ます田)

Sushi Masuda combines the Sukiyabashi Jiro tradition with a more expansive dining experience, beginning with small dishes and wine pairings.

After training at the renowned restaurant Tenzushi in Kitakyushu, head chef Rei Masuda further honed his skills for nine years at Sukiyabashi Jiro before opening his own restaurant. Many of his own apprentices have gone on to open popular restaurants of their own.

Following the achievement of two Michelin stars in 2017, the restaurant temporarily closed in 2019 but made a strong comeback in 2022. Since then it has been recognized as one of the top 100 restaurants on a major Japanese restaurant review site. While Tenzushi and Sukiyabashi Jiro primarily focus on nigiri sushi, Sushi Masuda offers a selection of small appetizers before moving on to the main sushi course. A resident sommelier is also on hand to help guests choose the perfect wine pairing for their meal. Reservations can be made online.

During the temporary closure in 2019, Masuda briefly opened a location in Taipei before shutting it down and returning to Japan. He also produced the Michelin one-star Sushi Wakon in Kyoto and Tokyo, however both locations have since closed. Now, he is fully focused on operating this restaurant in Aoyama.

Make a Reservation

Sushi Masashi （鮨 将司）

Sushi Masashi takes the omakase style pioneered by Sukiyabashi Jiro and reinterprets it in its own distinctive way.

Chef Masashi Yamaguchi opened the restaurant in 2020, after helping launch Sushi Wakon and earn it a Michelin star under the mentorship of Rei Masuda. Sushi Masashi has also held a Michelin star for 5 years in a row since 2022.

Chef Yamaguchi has reimagined the traditional omakase course, adding his creative touch. He describes his approach as crafting a story through the meal, following the structure of ki-sho-ten-ketsu (introduction, development, twist, and conclusion). Both lunch and dinner offer the same omakase course, featuring a curated mix of appetizers and sushi.

Sushi Ao (鮨 あお)

Sushi Ao offers Sukiyabashi Jiro-style sushi in a more intimate setting.

Head chef Ryo Okazaki opened the restaurant in 2020 after training at Sukiyabashi Jiro for 10 years. His sushi, created with techniques he perfected at Sukiyabashi Jiro, stands out for its sharp, well-balanced vinegar flavor. The restaurant has already been recognized as one of the Top 100 restaurants on a major Japanese restaurant review site. The private counter seating makes it an ideal setting for intimate group dining. Only omakase courses are offered. Lunch consists solely of nigiri sushi, while dinner features several small appetizers before transitioning to sushi. An extensive selection of sake and wine is also available, and reservations can be made online.

Make a Reservation

Sushi Muto (鮨 むとう)

Sushi Muto is particularly worth visiting for its tuna, sourced through a long-standing relationship with a trusted tuna wholesaler.

Chef Keiji Muto, who spent many years as sous-chef at Sushi Ao, opened this restaurant in Nihonbashi in 2023 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his career as a sushi chef. Before his time at Sushi Ao, Chef Muto honed his skills at the esteemed Japanese restaurant Kappou Chiei, which is also why he is recognized for his exceptional side dishes.

The restaurant features just seven counter-seats, creating an intimate dining experience, and Muto has deep trust in the tuna wholesaler he has partnered with for the past 15 years. The broker is equally impressed with Muto's talent, consistently supplying the finest quality tuna. When you visit Sushi Muto, be sure to savor the tuna and enjoy your meal.

Sushi Mizukami (鮨 みずかみ)

1. Japan Restaurant Award, Best 100 (2021, 22)
2. Japan Restaurant Award, Bronze (2023, 24)

Sushi Mizukami has earned a reputation among food enthusiasts as a worthy successor of Sukiyabashi Jiro.

Yukinobu Mizukami, who was the second-in-command to Jiro Ono at Sukiyabashi Jiro, founded the restaurant in 2018. It recieved a bronze award by Japan's leading gourmet review site every year from 2023 to 2026 and has been named in the site's list of top 100 restaurants three times.

Reservations can be made by phone or through an English language reservation website. Lunch is a sushi-only course, while dinner features a selection of appetizers alongside sushi. The drink menu primarily focuses on sake, offering a delightful opportunity to explore sushi and sake pairings.

Make a Reservation

Sushi Yuki (鮨 ゆうき)

Sushi Yuki offers a fresh spin on the Sukiyabashi Jiro style with a unique style of rice.

Head chef Yuki Hayashinouchi trained at the above mentioned Sushi Mizutani before becoming the third-generation owner of his family business, Tokiwa Sushi in Yokohama. He later relocated to Hiroo in Tokyo and opened Sushi Yuki.

Sushi Yuki was selected by the Michelin Guide in 2025 and awarded one star in 2026. It was also named one of the top 100 restaurants in 2025 and received a Bronze Award in 2026 from Japan’s leading restaurant review site.

As a protégé of Sushi Mizutani, Hayashinouchi is part of the third generation of chefs in the Sukiyabashi Jiro lineage. He says his rice is based on Mizutani's rice, which in turn was inherited from Sukiyabashi Jiro's with its own unique twist. The vinegar is sharp with a lingering umami. He hopes that guests will enjoy the sushi, and his omakase course features a delightful combination of seasonal appetizers and sushi.

Make a Reservation

Sushi Dokoro Narita (鮨処 成田)

Sushi Dokoro Narita offers the opportunity to experience sushi by a respected protégé of Sukiyabashi Jiro in Nagoya.

Chef Akitoshi Ohno trained under Jiro Ono at Sukiyabashi Jiro in preparation for taking over his family’s restaurant, Sushi Dokoro Narita.

Jiro Ono once remarked, "He was good at whatever he did," highlighting Ohno's exceptional skills. He also cultivated a close relationship with Jiro Ono's two sons, who continue to support him. Notably, Jiro Ono even traveled from Tokyo to Nagoya to observe how he was progressing, which speaks volumes about their bond.

The sushi rice combines a recipe developed by Ohno's father, the original owner of Sushi Dokoro Narita, with techniques learned from Sukiyabashi Jiro, resulting in a delicately flavored sushi rice made with rice vinegar. The sushi crafted with this rice melts in your mouth and will keep you coming back for more.

Instead of a fixed menu, guests can select omakase featuring appetizers and nigiri sushi, or can choose individual menu items according to their preference. If you see something that looks good being served at another table during your meal, you can easily add that to your order as well. Here, you’ll enjoy exquisite sushi in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Please note that reservations are accepted by phone only.

Make a Reservation