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Nagoya’s Hitsumabushi in Ginza: Carefully Grilled Eel, Signature Sauce, and Japanese-Grown Rice
Maruya Honten Ginza Glasse opened in Tokyo’s Ginza district in 2024 as a branch of Maruya Honten, an eel restaurant founded in Nagoya.
The signature dish is hitsumabushi, a Nagoya specialty of grilled eel over rice, featuring carefully selected eel grilled by skilled chefs until fragrant. Every ingredient and preparation step receives careful attention, from the sauce made to a secret recipe by blending traditionally produced tamari with several other soy sauces and mirin (sweet rice wine), to the Tsuyahime rice from Yamagata Prefecture, cooked slightly firm. The menu includes Hitsumabushi Maru, Hitsumabushi Jo, and Hitsumabushi Tokujo, as well as the eye-catching Gold Leaf Hitsumabushi. Another highlight is the chance to enjoy the dish three ways: first as served, then with condiments, and finally with hot dashi broth.
Counter seats surround the kitchen, offering a close-up view of the chefs grilling eel. The tableware is also carefully chosen, with hitsumabushi served in custom-designed Yamanaka lacquerware. The menu includes dishes such as Unagi Nagayaki (eel grilled with sauce) and umaki (a rolled omelet filled with eel), along with sake and wine. Close to Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro, the restaurant offers a taste of Nagoya’s eel cuisine in Ginza.
Grilled eel with tender flesh and crisp skin
Hitsumabushi Jo, showcasing the savory aroma of grilled eel
Sakae Lunch Set, featuring hitsumabushi and other dishes
Grilled eel, eel-filled rolled omelets, sake, and more
Elegant, relaxing counter seating in a wood-accented interior
Takeout is also available
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Where is Maruya Honten Ginza Glasse?
It is on the seventh floor of Ginza Glasse, about a 30-second walk from Exit C8 at Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro. It is also about a four-minute walk from JR Yurakucho Station.
Q
Can I make a reservation at Maruya Honten Ginza Glasse?
Yes. Reservations are accepted by phone and through reservation websites.
Q
Is takeout available?
Yes. The restaurant offers Hitsumabushi Bento and Unadon Bento (grilled eel over rice), among other takeout options. Enjoy them at home or wherever you’re staying, or bring one as a gift.
