JPN: Iwasa Sushi (岩佐寿し)
One of the few times I had snow crab on vinegared rice!
Daiwa Sushi and Sushi Dai are arguably two of the most famous sushi eateries at the former Tsukiji Market, the largest wholefish and seafood market not only in Tokyo, Japan, but also in the world before it closed down. Both have since moved to Toyosu Market. It was a pity that my BFF and I reached too late to join the last queue for Sushi Dai, so off we went to Iwasa Sushi nearby.
Daiwa Sushi and Sushi Dai are arguably two of the most famous sushi eateries at the former Tsukiji Market, the largest wholefish and seafood market not only in Tokyo, Japan, but also in the world before it closed down. Both have since moved to Toyosu Market. It was a pity that my BFF and I reached too late to join the last queue for Sushi Dai, so off we went to Iwasa Sushi nearby.
We queued for about 20 minutes to get counter seats.
Chef's Choice ¥4,000 (~S$51.85)
Taste: 8/10
In the Japanese menu, the set that I ordered is called おまかせ. The omakase (lit. I leave it up to you) set comprises 11 kinds of sushi and a bowl of soup. The three pieces on the right-hand side of the plate - medium fatty tuna, standard tuna and amberjack - were worthy of two thumbs-up. Though certainly fresh with a springy texture, the two pieces on the left-hand side of the plate - shrimp and ark shell - weren't as naturally sweet as expected. Served on the side were thin strips of ginger pickled in plum vinegar that tasted really refreshing.
The sea urchin was creamy enough for my liking, although I've had a much nicer one at Daiwa Sushi. The eel, though somewhat thin, was delectably velvety. The snow crab was enjoyably sweet, while the mackerel and the squid were pretty good too.
For the sushi rolls, there were three pieces of minced tuna and another three of a particular fish with cucumber. They tasted alright, but definitely not spectacular.
The miso (Japanese fermented rice, barley and/or soybean) soup was hearty with a nice tang of the sea, thanks to the shellfish. My only gripe was that it arrived on the table at a temperature slightly above lukewarm instead of piping hot.
Melon's Rating
Taste: 8/10
Ambience: 6.5/10
Service: 7.5/10
Overall: 7.5/10
The next time I'm in Tokyo, I'll make sure I try Sushi Dai. Pika's advice: It's possible to bring the plate home for an additional fee.
Iwasa Sushi
(岩佐寿し)
6-5-1 Toyosu
3/F Toyosu Market
Koto, Tokyo
Japan
(Mon-Sat: 6.00am - 3.00pm)
*Prices quoted are subject to 10% VAT.
Have a nice meal,
Cliff(y)
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