On the third day of my summer trip to Niigata, I aimed for Kyodai Zushi. It’s not a big secret, but this was one of the first places I made a reservation for during my itinerary.They operate two seatings at 17:00 and 20:00, and I booked an Omakase. While it’s not as competitive as the ultra-popular spots in the city center, the Saturday slots are still quite sought after. Luckily, I managed to secure the 17:00 slot and visited. ① Edamame, ② Madai (Sea Bream), ③ Chidai (Kasugo), ④ Grilled Bay Shell, ⑤ Nanban Shrimp, ⑥ Nodoguro (Blackthroat Sea Perch), ⑦ Aosa Seaweed and Plum Chawanmushi, ⑧ Kuruma Ebi (Sweet Shrimp), ⑨ Amadai (Sweetfish), ⑩ Oyster, ⑪ Shima Ika (Striped Squid), ⑫ Uni (Sea Urchin), ⑬ Grilled Ayu (Sweetfish), ⑭ Sado Tuna (Red Meat), ⑮ Sado Tuna (Fatty), ⑯ As a palate cleanser, Grilled Asparagus with Salt, Pickled Eggplant and Daikon, Grilled Kuruma Ebi, ⑱ Crab Roll, ⑲ Thick Roll, ⑳ Tamagoyaki (Japanese Omelette) (Drinks) (1) Gagaku Shidai, (2) O-Kami, (3) Musou Shinjitsu, (4) Takayanagi Sawagani River PlayThe owner trained at a sushi restaurant in Ginza. He is particular about using fresh ingredients from Niigata (though the uni is sourced from Aomori due to the lack of good quality in Niigata). He skillfully prepares and serves the sushi with a traditional Edomae technique.The overall impression is authentic and straightforward, showcasing the richness and potential of Niigata's fish. The Madai served first was incredibly flavorful, and the sweet shrimp was delightfully plump. The Nodoguro melted in my mouth, and the highlight was the Sado Tuna, both the red and fatty cuts. The rich flavor of the crab roll blended perfectly with the rice, making it exceptionally delicious. Everything was impeccable, and the side dishes complemented the drinks perfectly.Overall, I felt that this place offers a refined experience of top-quality Niigata fish with traditional Edomae craftsmanship, embodying what sushi should be in Niigata. The owner’s hospitality was impressive, engaging in conversation skillfully. (I can’t go into details, but he showed thoughtful consideration in certain matters, which I appreciated.) The service was attentive, with prompt refills of drinks and tea/water. At the end, I enjoyed a playful touch when he brought out the "Takayanagi Sawagani River Play" sake with the grilled shrimp nigiri.The clientele was great, and the price was under JPY 30,000, making it an excellent restaurant. I definitely want to visit again.
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