Sushi Mizutani 鮨　水谷 Sushi / Shimbashi

The Tokyo Michelin Guide 2009 awarded Mizutani three stars, recognizing it as one of the absolute best in the world. Owner/chef Mizutani is one of the best sushi chefs in Japan. His cozy restaurant can accommodate only ten counter seats where he graces his patrons with stories and careful work. He is known to put great emphasis on preparing top-quality shari (vinegared rice). The atmosphere is on the serious side, but not at all tense. Reservations are highly recommended, and you might want to try it at lunch time when it's less crowded.