Sushi & Seafood · Ginza
Sushi Arai 鮨 あらい
Ginza basement counter rated among Tabelog's very best (Gold 2026). Former Kyubey chef Yuichi Arai serves bold tuna-centred Edomae with an easy, generous warmth.
About
Yuichi Arai trained at Ginza Kyubey before opening his own counter in 2015, and within a few years Sushi Arai was in Tabelog's top tier, earning Gold in the Tabelog Award 2026. The sushi is classic Edomae with a focus on tuna sourced from a top wholesaler, served with confident, firm-vinegared rice and a showman's warmth. The counter is known for a lively, generous mood that puts overseas guests at ease. Seats are very hard to get, but cancellation slots and the occasional lunch make it possible.
Highlights
- Tabelog Gold 2026, among Japan's top-rated sushi counters
- Tuna-centred omakase from a top wholesaler
- Chef trained at Ginza Kyubey
- Welcoming to overseas guests
Tips
- Book through Omakase, Pocket Concierge or a luxury hotel concierge 1-2 months ahead
- Set alerts for cancellation seats on booking apps
- Basement entrance on a Ginza 8-chome side street: allow time to find it
- No perfume, no photos of other guests
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-09
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