Sushi Masa

Perched on the 2nd floor of the Katayama Building in Nishi-Shimbashi, Sushi Masa looks modest from the outside, but stepping through the door reveals a welcoming atmosphere run by the chef and his family. The quiet dining room—arranged around a counter and a few tables—offers an unpretentious space suited to everyday lunches as well as relaxed evening meals.

For a hearty midday meal, the "1.5-portion nigiri" is a popular choice, assembling 10 pieces of nigiri alongside tekka maki and a bowl of red miso soup. In addition to daily nigiri selections, the kitchen prepares various donburi options, including chirashi topped with an assortment of raw fish, maguro don, and negitoro don. Rice bowls come with shellfish soup, cold tea, and pickled ginger, allowing the clean flavors of the seafood to shine at a brisk, comfortable pace.

In the evening, diners can linger over small plates accompanied by beer and other drinks, with dinner reservations advisable to secure a spot. The chef's cheerful approach toward regulars and first-time guests alike lends an easy warmth to the whole experience.