Restaurant Imizu: Where Tokyo’s Sushi Spirit Meets Frankfurt’s Modern Flair

As we transition into autumn, with summer’s unpredictable mix of sweltering heat and frequent rainstorms behind us, we found a perfect moment to visit a new sushi restaurant that’s making waves in Frankfurt — Imizu. Unlike the lively buzz of a traditional izakaya (Japanese pub), Imizu offers a more laid-back atmosphere. With its sleek, modern aesthetic, comfortable seating, spacious tables, and soft ambient music, it’s a great place for casual gatherings, dates, or celebrations.

Imizu has an extensive menu, bringing together traditional Japanese flavors with modern influences. You’ll find inventive sushi rolls, savory barbecue, cost-effective lunch menu, and all-you-can-eat options (priced at around €35 p.P. for adults and €20 for kids). Along with their vegan selections and richly flavored main courses, Imizu endeavors to cater to every palate.

Their nigiri selection is impressive, offering a variety of options to customize your plate, with each choice including 2-3 pieces. Here’s what we tried:

N3 Walu (Butterfish): Delicate and buttery, this nigiri melts in your mouth, offering a smooth, rich flavor that’s both subtle and satisfying.

N9 Hotategai (Scallop): The scallops are plump and fresh, with a soft, tender texture. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the slightly briny taste, creating a light and refreshing bite.

N10 Hokkigai (Trough Mussel): This nigiri has a firm, meaty texture, with a mild oceanic flavor that is clean and slightly sweet, delivering a satisfying chew.

N14 Unagi (Grilled Eel): Rich in umami, the grilled eel is full of flavor, with a subtle nuttiness from the sesame seeds. The eel’s sweetness is perfectly balanced by the savory, slightly smoky notes from the grilling.

Special Nigiri (Flambeed Yellowfin Mackerel with Imperial Caviar, Kizami Wasabi, and Teriyaki): This is the highlight of the plate. The yellowfin mackerel is tender and juicy, with the surface expertly flamed to give it a light char and smoky aroma. The addition of imperial caviar and kizami wasabi on top add a refreshing zing and a luxurious touch. It makes each mouthful both indulgent and invigorating, masterfully blending rich, savory, and subtly spicy flavors.

Each nigiri is a work of art, both in its delicate appearance and its vibrant flavor. Mix the soy sauce with wasabi untill smooth. As you dip the nigiri, gently brush the top against the sauce, then place it in your mouth, top-down. As the tender fish meets your tongue, it feels like a fresh dive into the ocean, heightened by the savory soy, pungent wasabi, and sweet, vinegared sushi rice – the very spell of Japanese nigiri bliss.

The Moriawase Small sashimi set features 12 pieces of mixed sashimi selections – salmon, tuna, Shiro Maguro (Albacore Tuna), and Suzuki (Sea Bass).

Salmon has a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, with a rich, silky flavor that pairs perfectly with a touch of soy sauce and wasabi. Its freshness and natural sweetness create a luxurious bite. The Tuna pieces offer a clean, mild taste, they’re firm yet tender, providing a subtle umami flavor. Shiro Maguro (Albacore Tuna) presents lighter, almost creamy texture with a mild flavor, slightly more delicate in taste than regular tuna. Its white flesh offers a gentle, refined mouthfeel. Suzuki (Sea Bass) brings a fresh, clean flavor with a delicate tenderness, smooth without being overpowering. Its subtle taste is ideal for those who appreciate a more understated sashimi option.

When paired with soy sauce mixed with wasabi, the mild flavors of the fish come alive, with the sauce adding depth and a zesty kick, enhancing the freshness of each piece. Together, they create a savory, enjoyable sashimi experience.

Beyond sushi and sashimi, Imizu serves a tempting array of rice dishes. Grilled Duck Breast with Teriyaki and Sesame Caramel Sauce, alongside sweet pickled cucumber salad and fluffy rice, is a comforting and flavorful choice.

The grilled duck breast is exceptionally tender, with a rich, meaty flavor and a seared, slightly charred skin that adds a smoky depth. The teriyaki and sesame caramel sauces blend seamlessly, creating a luxurious mix of sweet and savory. Their nutty sweetness and umami notes elevate the meat’s natural earthiness. Combined with the crisp, smoky, juicy skin, each morsel feels incredibly indulgent.

The refreshing, sweet pickled cucumber salad cuts through the richness, while the rice provides a satisfying base. Peppery, slightly bitter microgreens on top lighten the rich duck flavors and sweet sauces, adding complexity and balance.

The portion is just right for a light appetite, leaving you pleasantly satisfied but with room for dessert or an extra sushi dish. It’s the sushi bar way—light, leisurely, and full of variety.

We’re thrilled to have discovered another nice sushi bar in Frankfurt. Sushi, refined over centuries, has become more than just food—it’s an art form, a testament to Japan’s rich culinary heritage. I still remember how unique each sushi bar in Tokyo was – be it minimalist, exquisite or cozy – sparking excitement with every visit.

Unlike traditional Edomae sushi bars, Imizu embraces a modern fusion approach, blending international styles into their creations. Their menu is diverse, ranging from quick, healthy options to more refined nigiri specials that showcase the chef’s skill. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate culinary creativity, high-quality sushi, and a relaxed yet stylish dining environment.