Roppongi, alongside Shinjuku’s Kabukicho, stands as one of Tokyo’s most lively entertainment districts. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Roppongi, however, is a sushi-lover’s destination unlike any other: “SUSHI Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu” (hereunder referred to as “SUSHI Gonpachi”). The restaurant offers a tranquil oasis with a picturesque interior inspired by Japan’s “Taisho Romanticism” during the 1910s and 20s in which Western- and Japanese-style elements were combined.
SUSHI Gonpachi serves sushi made from carefully selected ingredients. Guests can enjoy traditional Edomae sushi, rolls incorporating international trends, and even vegan options, offering a variety of dining experiences.
Exploring global trends with creative sushi at SUSHI Gonpachi
What sets SUSHI Gonpachi apart is its blend of tradition and innovation. The menu features sushi that breaks traditional boundaries by incorporating modern trends and cultures. One highlight is their selection of “International Rolls.”
For example, among their selection, you’ll find international favorites like the California Roll, a unique twist on Japanese sushi developed in the United States, as well as the avocado-rich “Dragon Roll.”
“ドラゴンロール,” Dragon Roll 1,309 JPY (tax included)
The Dragon Roll features sea eel (also known as conger eel) and avocado as its main ingredients, along with cucumber and flying fish roe, offering a variety of textures.
Finishing touches include sliced avocado and salmon roe for color, topped with a delicious sauce. It’s the same one the restaurant uses for their “Sea Eel” (nigiri) sushi, featuring a soy sauce base with added sweetness from sugar and mirin, creating a rich flavor.
Another recommended roll in this special lineup at SUSHI Gonpachi is their “Spicy Tuna Roll.”
“スパイシーツナロール,” Spicy Tuna Roll 1,100 JPY (tax included)
Tuna is seasoned with green chili and red pepper, adding a subtle kick. The addition of shiso (also known as perilla or macrophyll) and daikon radish sprouts brings a refreshing flavor to the Spicy Tuna Roll. A drizzle of mayonnaise sauce adds a tangy taste, enhancing its deliciousness.
Sushi for vegans: high-quality ingredients take the spotlight
Beyond the International Rolls, the diversity of SUSHI Gonpachi’s menu is showcased through their “Vegan Sushi.” Ingredients such as tonburi (summer cypress seed, known in Japan as “caviar of the land”), avocado, young green onion shoots, pickled myōga (Japanese ginger), shiitake mushrooms, and okra are used as sushi toppings.
“ヴィーガン握り（六貫）,” Assortment of Vegan Sushi (6 pc) 1,980 JPY (tax included)
Except for the Japanese ginger, the toppings are almost entirely unseasoned to let the natural tastes shine through. Each topping offers a distinct flavor and aroma, revealing new possibilities of vegetables with every bite.
Soy sauce is available, but eating these sushi selections as they are is recommended to fully appreciate the flavors. The grilled shiitake mushroom, in particular, is filled with natural sweetness and umami, providing a memorable taste experience. These large, thick mushrooms, selected for their satisfying texture, release their delicious juices with each chew, perfectly complementing the vinegared rice.
Traditional Edomae sushi: Choose your desired ingredients on the spot
At SUSHI Gonpachi, guests can also enjoy traditional Edomae sushi. In the old-fashioned style, customers can order sushi starting from a single piece, allowing them to choose exactly what they wish to eat.
(Left) “赤身” Tuna 352 JPY (tax included), (Center) “サーモン” Salmon 440 JPY (tax included), (Right) “鯵” Horse Mackerel 385 JPY (tax included)
Furthermore, SUSHI Gonpachi boasts a diverse selection of wines, Japanese sake, and whisky, showing a commitment to its alcohol menu. During your meal, asking the chef for alcohol recommendations to complement your food is encouraged. The knowledgeable chefs, acting as meal coordinators, can flawlessly guide Japanese cuisine novices through their selections.
Don’t miss the interior of Kill Bill fame
When visiting SUSHI Gonpachi, it’s not just about the sushi; make sure to take in the interior as well. SUSHI Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu is known for inspiring a stage set for a pivotal scene in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill: Volume 1.
SUSHI Gonpachi terrace seating
Whether it’s the counter where you can enjoy conversations with the chef, the Japanese-style terrace seating, or the modern table seating, every corner of the restaurant is picturesque, making the interior itself a reason to visit the restaurant.
The serene atmosphere of SUSHI Gonpachi, distinct from the first two floors of Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu, makes it a popular spot for celebrating special occasions and anniversaries.
SUSHI Gonpachi table seating
The ambiance of a restaurant, in addition to the taste of its dishes, plays a crucial role in shaping the impression it makes. The sushi at SUSHI Gonpachi is sure to offer you a unique and special dining experience that will delight all of your senses.
Information
| Store name | SUSHI 権八西麻布 SUSHI Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu |
|---|---|
| Address | 3F 1-13-11 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
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| Access |
Nogizaka Station 9-minute walk from Nogizaka Station Exit 5
Roppongi Station 10-minute walk from Roppongi Station Exit 2
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| Phone number | 050-5443-1689 |
| Reservations | Accepted Phone, official website |
| Payment |
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| Service charge/Table charge | None |
| Hours | 17:00-2:00 AM（last order 1:00 AM） |
| Closed | No fixed holidays Unscheduled holidays |
| Seating | 100 seats 16 counter seats, 42 table seats, 29 terrace seats, 13 private dining room seats |
| Smoking | All seats are non-smoking |
| Official website | https://gonpachi.jp/sushi-nishi-azabu/ |
| Other information |
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※Menu contents, prices, store information, etc. are current as of March 2024.
