Today, we introduce one of Hirosaki’s most popular sushi restaurants: Sushi Taka. This esteemed establishment, beloved by both locals and tourists, offers meticulously crafted Edo-style sushi and seasonal dishes prepared with exceptional skill and dedication.

As a personal favorite of mine, I had the pleasure of visiting Sushi Taka for an exclusive interview, and I am excited to share the experience with you.

The Philosophy Behind Sushi Taka

Sushi Taka is a true Edo-style sushi restaurant in Hirosaki. Originally located in Shinagawa-machi, the restaurant relocated in late July 2024 to a new location, just a 10-minute walk from Hirosaki Station, improving accessibility.

The restaurant offers a 9-seat counter and one private room (accommodating up to 6 guests), ensuring an intimate and high-quality dining experience.

The philosophy behind Sushi Taka is reflected in its name—using the kanji “鮨” (sushi) instead of “寿司” (sushi).

Owner and sushi master, Mr. Miura, shared his thoughts on the importance of traditional craftsmanship:

"The character ‘鮨’ represents the art of enhancing fish through careful preparation, a tradition passed down by sushi craftsmen over generations. While embracing modern techniques, I strive for precision and purpose in every step of my work.

Edo-style sushi was born in the late Edo period, when refrigeration and modern transportation did not exist. Craftsmen of that time developed techniques to preserve and maximize the flavor of seafood from Edo Bay.

Even today, dedicated sushi chefs share the same passion—to delight customers through their craft. This philosophy is the foundation of our restaurant, symbolized by the use of ‘鮨’ in our name."

Freshness is paramount at Sushi Taka.

Mr. Miura personally visits the market every morning, sourcing the finest ingredients from local seas (Japan Sea & Mutsu Bay). When local seafood is unavailable due to rough conditions, he relies on trusted suppliers from Toyosu Market to secure high-quality fish.

This relentless dedication to freshness and craftsmanship has made Sushi Taka a top destination for sushi lovers.

Exquisite Seasonal Course Menus

Sushi Taka operates on a reservation-only basis, offering exclusively course meals.

Previously, à la carte options were available, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, a decline in visitors led to excessive food waste. To minimize food loss, Sushi Taka transitioned to a course-only menu.

The restaurant offers two course options:

• ¥7,000 (excl. tax)
• ¥12,000 (excl. tax)

Both courses feature seasonal ingredients and typically include:

• Sakizuke (appetizer)
• Grilled dish
• Signature small dishes
• Selection of Edo-style sushi

Mr. Miura carefully selects ingredients daily, ensuring a unique dining experience each time. Guests can inquire about the menu when making a reservation.

Customizable Course Options

The restaurant accommodates menu modifications upon request.

For example, guests who prioritize sake over sushi can opt for a course with more small dishes and fewer sushi servings.

If you have specific preferences, discuss them during your reservation.

A Taste of the Season

At Sushi Taka, each season brings a unique selection of seafood.

During my January 2024 visit, the menu featured delicacies such as:

• Cod (tara)
• Cod milt (shirako)
• Spear squid (yari-ika)
• Flounder (hirame)
• Monkfish (ankō)
• Bluefin tuna from Tappi (Tappi maguro)

One of my highly recommended dishes is Nama-ko (sea cucumber), a winter delicacy.

Prepared using the traditional “Chaburi” method, where the sea cucumber is briefly blanched in hot tea (around 80°C), this technique removes bitterness and enhances its firm yet tender texture. It is then served as vinegared seafood (sunomono) or as sushi.

If you visit in winter, do not miss this seasonal delicacy.

Additionally, I highly recommend:

• Cod milt sashimi & sushi
• Tempura dishes

Every dish at Sushi Taka showcases masterful craftsmanship—making it an unforgettable dining experience.

Carefully Curated Sake Selection

Pairing sushi with the right sake is essential.

Mr. Miura has carefully curated a selection of over 20 premium sake labels from across Japan, ensuring each complements the delicate flavors of fresh seafood.

"For fresh seafood and sushi, I recommend dry, crisp sake with a clean finish. In addition to our sake menu, we also offer seasonal, off-menu sake varieties, so feel free to ask."

Not sure which sake to choose? Ask Mr. Miura for recommendations—his expertise ensures a perfect pairing for every dish.

For sake enthusiasts, Sushi Taka is a must-visit.

Takeout Menu (Currently Unavailable)

As of August 2024, takeout service is no longer available. For the latest updates, check Sushi Taka’s official Instagram.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant introduced takeout options, which became highly popular.

The former takeout menu included:

• “Miyabi” Nigiri (10 pieces, ¥4,500)
• “Omakase Premium Nigiri” (12 pieces, ¥6,000)
• Chirashi Sushi (Fukiyose & Bara, ¥4,500 – ¥6,000)
• Special Thick Sushi Roll (¥6,000, serves 3–4 people)

For those eager for takeout sushi, stay tuned for potential future offerings.

A Passion for Sushi, A Commitment to Guests

Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Miura shared his passion for sushi craftsmanship:

"After seven years of training in Tokyo, I opened Sushi Taka in Hirosaki at age 26. This year marks our 25th anniversary. Moving forward, I want to continue sharing the joy of sushi with customers, especially during special celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries. I strive to make Sushi Taka a place where guests feel truly grateful for their dining experience."

With unwavering dedication, Sushi Taka remains a pillar of Edo-style sushi in Hirosaki.

If you visit Hirosaki, do not miss the opportunity to experience this exceptional sushi dining experience.

Store Information

• 📍 Address: 2-4-28 Ekimae, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8002
• ⏰ Hours: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Last Order: 9:30 PM)
• 📅 Closed: Sundays
• 📞 Reservations: 050-8881-7787
• 📞 Alternative Contact: 080-5227-3847 (for inquiries outside business hours)
• 📷 Instagram: @bohemian_bookcafebar
• Note: Reservations should be made at least one day in advance. Same-day reservations depend on seat availability.