The Motomachi Craftsmanship Street area recently welcomed a new attraction that exemplifies its artisanal nomenclature: Gallery Sushi Stand Saburosushi Amane. Owner Ryutaro Taguchi, explaining his establishment’s concept, says, “Just as some museums may have a café, we set up a sushi stand in our art gallery.” As the son of the owner of historic Saburo Sushi in Motomachi, Taguchi opened his shop this spring to introduce sushi and art together. Noting that there are not so many local shops that offer items of true craftsmanship despite the area’s name, he decided to showcase the work of various artists along with the taste of his family’s artistic cuisine.
Admission to the gallery is free. A range of artwork, including paintings, pottery and photographs, are exhibited for a limited period of time. Customers can have a seat and simply observe the exhibits, talk to the artists (who stop by often), or purchase pieces that appeal to them. Of course, if you are hungry, grab some sushi! Taguchi’s signature menu item is the Inarizushi (sushi wrapped in seasoned, fried tofu) and Kampyomaki (dried ground roll) combo (¥600~). For drinks there are bottled domestic and import beers (¥600~). Heat isn’t used during food preparation, so don’t worry about purchasing artwork that comes with a smoked odor.
In order to become a sushi chef, Taguchi trained at Tsukiji Fish Market for over ten years as a wholesaler. He uses carefully chosen ingredients, including handmade fried tofu from a local specialty shop and quality nori (dried seaweed) from the Ariake Sea. He plans to add Kaisendon (sashimi rice bowl) to his menu soon. “It delights me the most when a customer orders sushi and decides to purchase a piece of art as well. I hope many will visit Motomachi for a chance to meet the artists and see their original work,” says Taguchi with a friendly smile.