The Japanese External Trade Organization (JETRO) has a competitive program that awards certifications to ‘Japanese Food and Ingredient Supporter Stores Overseas‘, which are reserved for restaurants or retailers that “further promote Japanese agricultural, forestry, fishery, and food products around the world.”
The certification process follows high standards published by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF).
These certifications are also quite elusive; just 82 restaurants in the country have been certified as ‘Japanese Food and Ingredient Supporter Stores’!
What sushi spot in Washington, D.C. has this certification?
The only sushi place in Washington, D.C. to have earned a certification as an ‘Overseas Japanese Food and Ingredient Supporter Store’ is Sushi Taro!
Considered one of the best sushi restaurants around the District for a reason, this Dupont Circle institution dates back to 1986, serving highly authentic, Edomae-style sushi and Kaiseki-inspired tasting menus.
Sushi Taro’s certification from JETRO is more than a mere marketing badge; it is an official acknowledgment from the Japanese government that it uses authentic Japanese ingredients and promotes Japanese food culture abroad.
The authentic Japanese ingredients extend to each corner of their menu; notable items include masterfully prepared Edomae sushi, housemade udon & soba noodles, and more.
How to book a table at Sushi Taro
If you want to reserve a dining experience at Sushi Taro, you can easily find their booking platform on the restaurant’s website.
You can book a table at the omakase counter to enjoy their authentic tasting menu, or reserve a table to enjoy an intimate evening with someone special or a special meal with close friends or family.
The omakase counter requires a non-refundable deposit of $100 (+ tax) per person, and any table reservations not canceled at least 24 hours before the booking will be charged $35 per person.
AloJapan.com