Sushiiwa

The signature kamatoro is an obvious place to start when choosing sushi at Sushiiwa. The menu also offers kamatoro sashimi; one diner recalled the experience as one that seemed to make time stand still. Guests who chose a course have also described learning the order in which to eat sushi, and which pieces to dip in soy sauce or enjoy as they are. An omakase course lets you follow a curated progression, while ordering à la carte means you can build a meal around your preferred fish.

The à la carte sushi selection includes fish and seafood such as flounder, kohada and sea bream, as well as a special thick omelette and hand rolls and small maki rolls. You could finish lightly with cucumber or plum and shiso rolls, for instance, or opt for more substantial toro-taku or conger eel and cucumber rolls. Beyond sushi, the menu includes dishes such as fresh fish marinated in Saikyo miso and grilled fish of the day, with a choice of salt, sauce or butter. The dengaku-style Kyoto round eggplant is prepared with white miso. Seasonal Japanese dishes round out the range, whether you choose a course or order individual plates.

For an alternative to a meal centred on sushi and seafood, a vegetable course for vegetarians is listed as available for both lunch and dinner. The calm, traditionally Japanese interior has counter seating and private tatami rooms, suiting a solo meal at the counter as well as a gathering in a private room. Drinks include sake, beer and wine. There are options for an evening of one piece of sushi at a time or a course accompanied by a selection of individual dishes.