Sushi Meets Japanese Tea: A Unique Culinary Experience in Tokyo

Tokyo's sushi scene is about to go through a delightful transformation as Sushi Shutatsu introduces a groundbreaking pairing of sushi and Japanese tea starting December 1, 2025. Situated in the serene neighborhood of Ogikubo, this sushi establishment is set to offer an omakase course featuring expertly crafted sushi paired with an array of exquisite teas curated by the distinguished Tokyo Tokan Tea Boutique, which boasts a history of over 200 years.

The New Experience of Sushi and Japanese Tea

Traditionally, sake or wine has been the go-to pairing for sushi enthusiasts. However, the integration of tea into sushi dining is a practice rooted in Japan's rich culinary history, tracing back to the Edo period. At that time, tea, known as 'agari', was served at the end of a meal and was believed to complement the flavors of the fish, providing a refreshing palate cleanser and some antibacterial properties.

Given this historical context, the new pairing course at Sushi Shutatsu seeks to revive this time-honored tradition with an innovative twist. Diners can expect a harmonious blend of flavors, where the umami of sushi interacts delightfully with the aromatic, astringent, and sweet profiles of carefully selected teas. The experience promises a unique pairing that diverges from the conventional, allowing guests to relish both tradition and modernity in every bite.

Example Pairings

The pairing course showcases a carefully thought-out lineup of sushi and tea combinations designed to enhance your dining experience:

- White Fish + Sencha: The refreshing qualities of sencha cleanse the palate, balancing the oily characteristics of the fish.
- Medium Fatty Tuna + Gyokuro: This unique relationship accentuates the luxurious umami of the toro, accentuating each bite.
- Shako/Anago + Kinjyo Sencha: The aromatic notes of this tea elevate the sushi’s flavors.
- Dessert + Organic Matcha: A perfect finishing touch, the matcha completes the meal with its lingering elegance.

The course’s tea offerings flow seamlessly alongside the dishes, reminiscent of a traditional tea kaiseki experience, weaving together a narrative of taste and aroma.

Sample Menu Features

Guests will experience an array of dishes that highlight seasonal specialties. Here are some highlights:

- Tuna from Yamako: Touted for its exceptional quality, the tuna is finely prepared for sushi.
- Luxury Risotto with Abalone Liver Sauce: Made from whole abalone, this dish is a creamy delight.
- Steamed Firefly Squid with Vinegar Miso: Complemented by seasonal vegetables and fish roe.

Please note that the course ingredients are seasonal and will change monthly to reflect the freshest and finest produce available.

Featured Japanese Teas

A selection of specially curated teas will be served:

- Limited Edition Aged New Tea Makizono: Seasonal specialty tea, offering unique characteristics each month.
- Unkai no Yoake (Light Steamed Sencha): This award-winning tea is crafted from leaves known for their quality, harvested from some of Japan's most prominent tea producers.
- Kinjyo Sencha Tokusen Ho-oh (Light Steamed Sencha): Award-winning, with delicate aromas brought out through precise steaming methods.
- Gyokuro: Revered as the 'king of tea', it is cultivated in shaded environments, enhancing its rich umami and depth.

The choice of tea will vary with the seasons and the availability of the finest ingredients.

Course Special Features

As a bonus, guests can take home a special gift set featuring select teas enjoyed during the meal. Accompanied by an English brewing guide, this beautifully packaged gift allows you to recreate the experience in your own home.

Course Overview

Title: Sushi Meets Japanese Tea — An Exquisite Japanese Tea Pairing
Content: Omakase sushi course (21 dishes) + 4+ varieties of Japanese tea pairing + gift set
Price: 24,000 yen (tax included) per person
Launch Date: December 1, 2025
Location: Sushi Shutatsu, 5-29-7 Ogikubo, Suginami Ward, Tokyo
Reservation Methods: Phone (Japanese), online (English page), byFood (English page, to be available from November)

Sushi Shutatsu stands as a hidden gem in Ogikubo, where you can savor authentic sushi prepared by a chef with 30 years of experience from renowned establishments. The fish is meticulously sourced directly from the Toyosu Market, ensuring peak freshness. Seasonal ingredients change monthly, creating new culinary adventures with each visit. The launch of the ‘Sushi Meets Japanese Tea Pairing Course’ marks a celebration of both tradition and innovation in Japan's food culture, aiming to share this unique culinary experience with the world.

For Inquiries

Sushi Shutatsu
Address: 5-29-7 Ogikubo, Suginami Ward, Tokyo
Phone: 03-6276-9113
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @sushishutatsu
Twitter: @sushishutatsu
Reservation Page: Inline Booking