Tokyo Belly: ROPPONGI: Gatten Sushi (Below Outback Steakhouse)...friendly Kanpai's!

I'm usually one to stick with what I like... centering around three very basic things; quality of food, atmosphere but most of all service. Was a regular at Tsukiji Sushi-ko (on the corner of Roppongi Crossing) for several years until a new sushi chef so obviously decided to serve me less portion than the Japanese customer sitting shoulder to shoulder with me at the counter. But ultimately the regular sushi chefs rotated out of the Roppongi shop and the new staff seemed to assume customers were just tourists thus service lacked. Then I got hooked on Sushi Zanmai (2 shops in Roppongi). Great staff... nice atmosphere and the occasional 1/2 off Tuna special was too good to pass up.

I've seen Sushi Gatten a few times on my way to Outback but never ventured inside. Brand new shop and a bit hidden away...hmm could the fish be fresh... but Mari convinced me to give it a try plus their 130yen Chu-Toro (Fatty Tuna) was such a deal compared with SushiZanmai 298yen.

The shop is only a few months so the wooden interior is immaculate, service was just beyond good and the quality of fish very consistent and sooo tasty...especially the Chu-Toro (fatty tuna). I really can't see myself going anywhere else from now on.

250yen "Otooshi" (Appetizer that comes automatically if you order alcohol). If you can't eat whats brought out just return it right away...otherwise you will be charged 250yen per person. You'll encounter this at most Japanese restaurants/izakaya's.

Raw Scallop and Ama-Ebi with 3 shrimps! Normally 2 at any other shop! Well other than Roppongi Tsukiji Sushi-ko on the corner that sliced one tiny piece in half and evenly spread it over the rice... that was my last straw.

Our way too cool Sushi Chef. Mr. Watanabe. Check out their name tags. Hometown, hobbie and name written. A conversation starter~. Don't be surprised if the staff Kanpai's with you on your first sip of beeru.