When one thinks of Japanese food, they think of fish, and Anthony Bourdain was no exception. As he himself lets us know, this was his main craving when arriving at Tokyo, so let’s satisfy it.
Like all good fish meals, our journey begins at a market, and Tsukiji Outer Market is our first stop. This is where Bourdain accompanied some of the most decorated chefs in the world to buy their fish. Currently, it is home to many restaurants and small businesses. As of 2018, the market changed location, so if you want a full tuna auction experience, it’s best to visit the Toyosu Market.
Now that we know where our fish comes from, let’s explore some places Anthony Bourdain trusted with them. For a fitting start to this culinary trip, we recommend Sushi Karaku, a place that does sushi the Edomae way, that is, just like in the Edo Period. Continuing with Edomae, Ginza Sushiko Honten is a must, as it’s where world-renowned chef Masa Takayama learned everything he knows. For a more contemporary approach, we would recommend Sushi Bar Yasuda, but it sadly closed its doors permanently in 2020. Nevertheless, the technique pioneered by its chef, Naomichi Yasuda, where you freeze the fish to maximize its flavor, is still used on some high-end establishments.
Sushi, however, wasn’t the only fish meal Anthony had in Tokyo, as there exist many ways to eat it in the city. If you want to follow his footsteps, first get to know the locals at Taito Ward while eating Kusaya (fermented fish). Then, go to Restaurant XEX Morimoto, where the world-famous chef Masaharu Morimoto may serve you some deep-fried Monkfish. Finally, if, like Bourdain, you want to bite the forbidden fruit, dare to try Fugu (puffer fish) in a specialized restaurant.
AloJapan.com