About
travels for friends, food and wine - in exactly this order
From
San Sebastian, Spain
Born
July 21
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- Gerhard Huber added a new meal Dinner at 片折 - Kataori at Kataori (片折)
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- Gerhard Huber added a new meal Dinner at Yoshida at Yoshida
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- Gerhard Huber added a new meal Dinner at The Bellwood at The Bellwood
The Bellwood, located in Tokyo’s Shibuya district, is a renowned bar blending traditional Japanese culture with modern mixology. Inspired by Taisho-era kissaten (coffee houses), it was founded by celebrated bartender Atsushi Suzuki, who draws from his international experience in New York and Shanghai. Within the bar lies Bell Sushi, an exclusive four-seat... More
The Bellwood, located in Tokyo’s Shibuya district, is a renowned bar blending traditional Japanese culture with modern mixology. Inspired by Taisho-era kissaten (coffee houses), it was founded by celebrated bartender Atsushi Suzuki, who draws from his international experience in New York and Shanghai. Within the bar lies Bell Sushi, an exclusive four-seat omakase sushi counter led by Chef Ayaka Terai, a pioneer in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Yesterday’s meal at Bell Sushi was excellent. Chef Terai’s sushi is truly original, expertly crafted, and very tasty. Her innovative approach fuses Japanese and global flavors, creating unique nigiri topped with ingredients like coffee beans, tahini, and jalapeños. These flavors, inspired by her travels, are thoughtfully matched with Japanese fish with astonishing success. While it may not be the most traditional Edomae sushi experience, and some purists might critique her playful use of unusual ingredients, Chef Terai preserves the essence of a high-quality sushi meal while adding a sense of fun and creativity.
The omakase experience includes 12 pieces of nigiri paired with three signature cocktails, carefully crafted to complement each course. This innovative fusion, paired with The Bellwood’s blend of historical ambiance and modern sophistication, positions it as a standout in Tokyo’s vibrant culinary scene. Less
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- Gerhard Huber added a new meal Dinner at 鮨一幸 at Sushi Ikkou (鮨 一幸)
Chef Junya Kudo of Sushi Ikkou (鮨一幸) is a philosopher among Tokyo’s sushi masters, constantly refining his craft to enhance the guest experience. His thoughtful approach was evident in the sequencing of the evening’s nigiri, starting with the indulgent Otoro (大トロ, Fatty Tuna). This unconventional choice juxtaposed the sweet, luscious... More
Chef Junya Kudo of Sushi Ikkou (鮨一幸) is a philosopher among Tokyo’s sushi masters, constantly refining his craft to enhance the guest experience. His thoughtful approach was evident in the sequencing of the evening’s nigiri, starting with the indulgent Otoro (大トロ, Fatty Tuna). This unconventional choice juxtaposed the sweet, luscious fat of the fish with the tangy acidity of the shari, creating a striking first impression.
Several standout dishes defined the meal. The Sea Bream (鯛, Tai) was cut thick, showcasing its natural sweetness and yielding a delightful texture that lingered on the palate. The Meji Maguro (メジマグロ, Young Bluefin Tuna) was lightly grilled and smoked—not to cook it, but to enhance its flavor. The result was a smooth, smoky bite with exceptional depth and balance.
The Otoro was, as expected, a showstopper—its marbled fat melting luxuriously in the mouth. Equally remarkable was the Buri (鰤, Yellowtail), thinly sliced and doubled over to ensure a seamless integration of its fat with the rice. The resulting bite was nearly indistinguishable from Otoro, an incredible feat that demonstrated Kudo-san’s precision and creativity.
Other highlights included the clean, crisp texture of Sayori (鱵, Halfbeak) and the deeply savory Aji (鯵, Horse Mackerel), which left a lingering umami. The meal concluded with a buttery Anago (穴子, Sea Eel) and a light, custard-like Tamago (玉子, Egg Custard), both perfectly executed.
Kudo-san’s dedication to innovation and detail extends beyond individual dishes, encompassing the overall dining experience. The shari, masterfully seasoned and warm, acted as the perfect canvas for the fish. Sushi Ikkou blends tradition with modern artistry, making it a must-visit destination for sushi connoisseurs seeking precision, creativity, and unforgettable flavors. Less
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- Gerhard Huber added a new meal Dinner at Comptoir Feu at Comptoir Feu