UOBEI is a high-tech sushi restaurant in Shibuya with affordable sushis. Yep, a-f-f-o-r-d-a-b-l-e sushi.
Let’s say that at first I thought being in Japan I would automatically see cheap and great sushi everywhere, but that’s not exactly true, especially comparing with ramen (which is consistently cheap and great).
Some people say this is a place for tourists only and their sushi is not as good as a traditional sushi restaurant in Japan. However, I’ve been there twice and I can safely say I spotted many locals eating there as well.
I really liked there – both the food and the experience. Sushis were fresh, yummy and good sized.
If you like to eat well without spending a lot, don’t think twice. 🙂
So, why is it high-tech? Well, it is all about the experience!
UOBEI is not like a traditional sushi train restaurant, where the food keeps going round and round on a conveyor belt, until someone gets it. That’d be too boring, wouldn’t it?
Instead, you place your order using a touchscreen device placed in front of you. Then, a few seconds later, your order slides in in front of you on one of the tree “sushi lanes”. Yep, it comes straight to you! No human contact (order than the humans preparing your sushi, of course), no ordering mistakes. Your fresh and pretty sushi comes straight way to meet you!
My order
Before you scroll down let me say I’ve been there twice, both opportunities with my husband, so all the plates you’re about to see are not all mine. 😛
I’ve tried to take photos of all dishes we ordered there, but I forgot some of their names. #sorrytoohungry.
Traditional sushi
As you would expect, there are many options of traditional sushi available. You can find salmon, tuna, prawns (shrimp), squid, and also in raw or grilled versions.
Vegetarian sushi
In case you are vegetarian, don’t worry! There are plenty of options, here are some that I’ve tried.
Specials: meat sushi
Meat lover, but not really into fish? You are covered! There are pork and beef options available.
Deep fried options
Missing some oily stuff? You can try some of their deep fried dishes.
As you could see there are options for all palates. I haven’t tried, but there is also available udon soup and other noodle dishes.
The verdict
I loved it! I’m not a sushi fan, but I really enjoyed my experience there and of course, the food. Specially the yummy thick sliced omelette. I could totally have some of it now. 🙂
Ah! This place has the reputation of having huge waiting lines for lunch and dinner. So, be smart going there, avoid peak hours and you’re golden. Our both opportunities there we didn’t have to wait at all. It was around 11.50 am and 6 pm.
About the English: English menu available and staff can communicate well in English, but you will not need them. 🙂
Bill: Dishes start from $108 Yen ($1.40 AU) – there is free green tea available.
Exact location: https://goo.gl/maps/BaNcPEGHcoo
I’ll leave you now with a view from the inside:
