1. Introduction
Sushi Shota is a premium sushi omakase restaurant tucked away in a quiet basement location in central Sapporo.
Run by Chef Shota Oda, who honed his craft in Tokyo’s Ginza district,
the restaurant combines the traditions of classic Edomae sushi with the freshest ingredients from Hokkaido,
offering a seasonal, peak-expression omakase experience.
The true strength of Sushi Shota lies in its precise rice temperature, finely tuned seasoning,
and the exceptional aging of each neta.
Above all, what elevates Sushi Shota even further is its reputation for serving some of the finest tuna in Japan.
The course progression—beginning early with various cuts of bluefin tuna, moving from head meat to akami,
then chutoro, and finally otoro—is especially memorable.
The shari, made with Hokkaido’s Yume Pirika rice, has a texture that gently loosens and melts naturally on the palate.
The interior features an eight-seat counter, creating an atmosphere devoted entirely to the appreciation of each individual piece of sushi.
The precise, disciplined movements of the chefs—each with a clean-shaven head—
combined with the attentive service of the manager (the chef’s wife),
form a quiet yet tension-filled environment that draws your focus to the chef’s hands and the cut of the knife.
This very moment of immersion is what defines the allure of Sushi Shota.
2. Location & Hours
- Location: Near Odori Station in central Sapporo
- Business Hours: Two dinner seatings at 18:00 and 20:30; lunch sessions available on select days
- Closed: Sundays and public holidays
- Seating: 8 counter seats (reservation required)
- Parking: Paid parking available nearby
In the narrow streets of central Sapporo, where office workers hurry past throughout the day,
I couldn’t help but wonder—is there really a sushi restaurant hidden here?
After circling the building in search of the entrance, I finally spotted a small lantern glowing softly,
quietly guiding the way.
On this level, only the restaurant and its private restroom are located.
3. Signature Menu
- Omakase Course (approx. ¥33,000~)
- 아카미 → 츄토로 → 오토로로 이어지는 참다랑어 3단 구성
- 홋카이도산 성게, 단새우, 제철 재료까지 완벽한 밸런스
- A three-tier bluefin tuna progression: akami → chutoro → otoro
- Beautiful balance featuring Hokkaido sea urchin, sweet shrimp, and peak-season ingredients
- Shari: Made with Yume Pirika rice, with a perfectly calibrated vinegar ratio and temperature
- Service: All dishes served directly by the chef; English explanations available; foreigner-friendly
4. Sake Pairing
A beautifully curated pairing experience, enjoyed with recommended sake served in exquisite glassware.
- The recommended liqueur suggested when the monkfish liver monaka was served mid-course.
- Osusume — When asking for recommendations, you’ll be offered a selection of high-quality, reasonably priced, and approachable sake options.
If you’re seeking something more premium, note that additional high-end bottles are available, so it’s worth inquiring in advance.
5. Conclusion
For those wishing to fully experience Sapporo’s exceptional ingredients and sushi culture,
Sushi Shota offers a truly top-tier sushi omakase.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion in Japan, embarking on a gourmet journey,
or seeking to understand the essence of authentic sushi,
this is a destination that should not be missed.
Reservations (Omakase In):
https://omakase.in/en/r/oo561265
Tabelog:
https://tabelog.com/kr/hokkaido/A0101/A010102/1073448/