Still trying to decide my favourite, but maybe the best thing I ate in Japan in my whole month trip round the country, was the maguro hohoniku (tuna cheeks) donburi here.

During my visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market, I had the privilege of experiencing one of the most remarkable dishes I have ever tasted in Japan — a tuna cheek donburi at Tsukiji Donburi Ichiba. This is far more than just a meal; it is a true work of culinary craftsmanship. The chef prepares only about 20 bowls each day, and after the very first bite, it becomes immediately clear why. Every bowl reflects not only exceptional ingredients but also the skill and dedication of someone who has spent a lifetime perfecting his craft. Tuna cheeks are considered one of the most prized and unique delicacies in Japanese cuisine. Their texture is extraordinary, somehow combining the richness of premium marbled beef with the delicate character of the finest fish. Carefully grilled over an open flame, the meat develops a subtle smokiness, incredible tenderness, and a depth of flavor unlike anything I have experienced before. The rice deserves special recognition as well. Infused with the juices of the tuna, fragrant oils, and delicate notes from the grill, it becomes much more than a simple accompaniment. The combination of smoky aromas, rich flavors, and perfectly cooked rice creates a harmony that is impossible to forget. Every element is exactly where it should be, and the result exceeds even the highest expectations. In Japanese culture, there is a concept known as shokunin — a person who dedicates their entire life to mastering their craft. That is precisely the impression left by the chef behind this extraordinary dish. His respect for the ingredients, attention to detail, and devotion to his work can be felt in every bite. It was a great honor to meet him personally and receive his permission to take a photograph, which I am pleased to share with this review. Behind his calm and humble demeanor lies a lifetime of experience, discipline, and mastery, transforming what appears to be a simple bowl of rice into one of the most memorable culinary experiences Japan has to offer. If you find yourself at Tsukiji Market, this place should be an essential stop on your itinerary. This tuna cheek donburi alone is worth traveling not only to Tsukiji but to Tokyo itself. It is one of those rare occasions when reality surpasses expectations by a wide margin. The combination of smoky flavors, melt-in-your-mouth tuna, and exceptionally delicious rice creates a dish that ranks among the finest culinary experiences I have ever had. My sincere thanks to the chef for creating a meal that will remain in my memory for a very long time. Gochisousama deshita!

Order limited tuka cheeck steak. Taste quite special, salty with a little sour in end. Taste really like steak. Fish is cooked to well done. It with be better if the fish is medium rare.

MARCH 2023 There are a variety of seafood rice bowls to choose from, but the one that stood out was the grilled tuna cheek bowl which they can serve only 20 bowls per day. The grilled tuna cheek was tender, seasoned with pepper and slightly buttery. Enjoyed it quite a bit.

+3

A cute little market food stall situated outside the Tsukiji market precinct. Decent pricing compared to the other food stalls on offer. We tried two dishes based on a YouTube video reccomendation: tuna cheek steak (note - only 20 are served daily) and the tuna three types. I can definitely vouch they were both delicious and very flavoursome!

+1