Ginza Koso

The first restaurant in Chuo Ward officially licensed to serve raw meat, kuroge wagyu specialist Koso is a certifiably safe choice for anyone still worried about the hygienic aspects of meat sushi. Dealing only in wagyu, the chefs source fresh product from places like Kagoshima and Saga every day, so you’re sure to get only the good stuff. First off, try the raw wagyu nigiri (¥600), topped with salmon roe for a fun harmony of tastes and textures. Next, go for the wagyu toro nigiri (¥700), a lightly flame-grilled, fatty slab of meat combined with pickled sea bream (shuto). This one makes for a nice match between the soft, aromatic meat and the savoury pickles. With up to 80 vintages available, the wine list offers more than enough choice. Do note that this is a very expensive restaurant – expect to spend at least ¥10,000 per person at dinner – and reservations are absolutely necessary.