When it comes to fish cuisine representative of Japan, for many people overseas, sashimi would have to come to mind.
Located in Nishi-Shinjuku, “Imagawa Shokudō Nishi-Shinjuku” (hereinafter referred to as “Imagawa Shokudo”) offers not only sashimi but also an array of seafood dishes prepared through methods such as searing and frying.
Imagawa Shokudo’s “Sesame & mackerel Donburi” is a dish crafted with meticulous care
One significant aspect of Imagawa Shokudo is that they source fish directly from fish wholesale companies without going through the market. Moreover, they use fish processed to maintain freshness immediately after being caught, so that customers can enjoy an authentic flavor.
Among those fresh offerings, the restaurant is particularly proud of their mackerel.
“ごまさば丼（定食）,” Sesame & mackerel Donburi (Set) 1,188 JPY (tax included)
Raw mackerel can be prone to spoilage and is generally not considered a good fit for raw consumption. However, Imagawa Shokudo employs a special freezing technique on their freshly procured mackerel that makes it safe to eat.
Imagawa Shokudo’s “Sesame & mackerel Donburi,” which serves that special mackerel soaked in sweet soy sauce on top of a bed of rice, is the restaurant’s signature dish.
First, try savoring the raw mackerel marinated in sweet soy sauce on its own. The mackerel at Imagawa Shokudo is so fresh that it lacks any fishy odor, and the texture is delightfully firm.
Next, break the egg yolk and mix it with the sliced mackerel. This deepens the richness and enhances the sweetness. The velvety texture of the egg yolk adds another layer, creating a sublime combination.
Finally, enjoy it with a dashi broth made from kombu (kelp), iriko (small dried sardines), and ago (flying fish) as an ochazuke rice soup.
The dashi flavor isn’t overpowering, allowing you to appreciate the taste of the mackerel until the last bite.
The dish is served with sesame seeds that you can grind using a mortar. It is highly recommended to sprinkle them over the dish to add a rich aroma.
The popularity of the Sesame & mackerel Donburi is likely due to the many ways you can enjoy it in a single meal.
The excellence of the ingredients stands out in the “Broiled mackerel”
Imagawa Shokudo offers another dish featuring their prized fish, and that’s their “Broiled mackerel.”
It’s a dish where mackerel, marinated in vinegar, is served after being torched with a burner.
Imagawa Shokudo pays special attention to not marinating the mackerel too long in vinegar. If it’s marinated excessively, it not only compromises the mackerel’s flavor but also alters its texture.
This careful approach to marination reflects the restaurant’s commitment to their craft, which is made possible by the exceptional freshness of the mackerel.
“自家製大トロ炙り〆さば,” Broiled mackerel 858 JPY (tax included)
The Broiled mackerel gives you just a subtle hint of the vinegar’s flavor. Even without any additional condiments, it’s more than delicious enough on its own!
The torched fatty parts are so sweet and melt in your mouth, making it a delicacy to savor with each and every bite.
An abundance of fresh fish! The luxurious assorted platter is a must-order
If you’re looking to savor the deliciousness of fresh fish, you can’t forget about sashimi!
“刺身の盛り合わせ（２人前）,” Sliced fresh fish assortment (for two people) 1,716 JPY (tax included)
Apart from tuna, the selection may vary depending on the season. During our visit, there were four types of sashimi, including red sea bream, yellowtail, and horse mackerel.
Every type of sashimi offered in the platter has a firm and satisfying texture.
The seasonal fish, carefully selected by the discerning professionals, are rich in flavor. Whichever one you eat, you’re guaranteed deliciousness.
The key to the “Tuna rare cutlet” is the restaurant’s secret frying time!
As its name suggests, the “Tuna rare cutlet” is a a dish where tuna is coated with breadcrumbs and deep-fried.
“まぐろのレアカツ,” Tuna rare cutlet 748 JPY (tax included)
The restaurant pays special attention to the temperature of the oil and frying time, resulting in a crispy outer layer while keeping the tuna inside rare and moist.
When cut, the vibrant red color of the tuna shines through.
To enjoy, use the “Mild Sauce” provided at the table. The sauce’s sweetness and tartness perfectly complement the light taste of the tuna.
With a satisfying texture yet lighter than meat, the Tuna rare cutlet is a dish that lets you discover a new side of tuna.
Imagawa Shokudo offers a health-conscious menu
At Imagawa Shokudo, the commitment to quality extends beyond just fish; it applies to condiments and the white rice used in their bowls.
The white rice they use is from a brand that has been evaluated by a specialized certification institution as having particularly excellent taste and aroma. Their condiments are free from additives and chemical seasonings.
(left) “自家製甘醤油” Homemade Sweet Soy Sauce, (center) “刺身醤油” Sashimi Soy Sauce, (right) “まろやかソース” Mild Sauce
The president of Imagawa Shokudo is said to prioritize not only deliciousness but also a strong awareness of health.
That desire for something safe and reliable to consume is shared by many in the general public. Visit Imagawa Shokudo to enjoy delicious dishes with a sense of security and explore a new allure of fish!
Imagawa Shokudo’s interior
Information
| Store name | いまがわ食堂 西新宿店 Imagawa Shokudō Nishi-Shinjuku |
|---|---|
| Address | Daikan Plaza Bizness Kiyota Building 2F, 7-9-15 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
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| Access |
Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station 1-minute walk from Exit D5
Seibu-Shinjuku Station 4-minute walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station Main Exit
Nishi-Shinjuku Station 5-minute walk from Exit E8
Shinjuku Station（SJK） 8-minute walk from Shinjuku Station West Exit
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| Phone number | 03-6304-0710 |
| Reservations | Accepted after 17:00 Phone, Tabelog |
| Payment |
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| Service charge/Table charge | None |
| Hours | 11:00-23:00（last order 22:00） |
| Closed | No fixed holidays Unscheduled holidays |
| Seating | 84 seats 12 counter seats, 72 table seats |
| Smoking | All seats are non-smoking |
| Official website | https://www.odakyu-restaurant.jp/shop/imagawashokudou/nishishinjuku.html |
| Other information |
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※Menu contents, prices, store information, etc. are current as of February 2024.
