Despite the global cost-of-living crisis that is making life in Japan seemingly more expensive each day, some businesses still manage to offer little luxuries at affordable prices. Among them is this new sushi, oyster and sake-focused restaurant located a four-minute walk from Nakano Station. Saigyo no Bansan is helmed by the former chef of a Michelin-starred restaurant, and is able to offer quality dining at accessible prices thanks to direct relationships with food and drink producers from various parts of Japan.
Here, sushi is priced from ¥100 per piece, with a sizeable cut of succulent toro (fatty tuna meat) coming in at a very reasonable ¥385. Oysters are priced from ¥300, and for an indulgence that won’t break the bank, there’s an all-you-can-eat oyster option costing ¥4,500. The large raw oysters served here are a variety that won second prize in Japan’s 2024 Oyster Grand Prix.
Over the course of a year, the restaurant will offer over 80 varieties of premium sake, with the lineup changing to suit each season. These are priced from ¥450 per cup.