If you happen to be flying JAL during this month (May), my column in the inflight magazine, Skyward, features Sushi Iwa in Ginza.
There are several reasons why we are featuring Iwa, rather than any of the more illustrious sushi houses. Perhaps the most cogent one is that it remains considerably more affordable than the other bigger names in the neighbourhood.
But I also rate it because of its look and location. This after all is where Kojyu used to be housed before Chef Toru Okuda decamped to slightly larger and altogether swisher premises closer to the heart of Ginza.
For those who remember, it feels quite nostalgic. The same entrance way with its bamboo trellis window, ground-level iron lantern and long noren swaying in the breeze; the same tea-house-rustic decor of wooden beams and packed-mud walls; and the same counter just big enough (at a slightly tight sitting) for six privileged diners.
Just another factor that adds to the enjoyment at Sushi Iwa.
The small print:
The images accompanying my words are (as usual) by Akio Takeuchi.
Unfortunately this column – and indeed the entire English section of Skyward – is only available on JAL's international flights, not on domestic routes.
