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In the vibrant culinary scene of Seoul, one name stands out for its exquisite offerings and near-impossible reservations: Sushi Hashira. Located in exclusive Cheongdam-dong, this sushi omakase destination is a hot topic, with booking slots for three months later disappearing within seconds on Catch Table at noon on the first day of each month. This extreme popularity testifies to an experience that transcends traditional sushi dining.

What truly elevates Sushi Hashira? Beyond its meticulously crafted dishes, it’s the unparalleled art of mariage – the sublime pairing of premium sushi with an exceptional selection of fine wines. This sophisticated concept is a rare gem in Korean sushi establishments, making Sushi Hashira a truly unique culinary landmark.

The Vision: Chef Yoon Joohan’s Masterpiece

Behind Sushi Hashira’s acclaim is the esteemed Chef Yoon Joohan. His culinary journey includes rigorous training at Tokyo’s legendary Sushi Sugita for six months and a significant seven-and-a-half-year tenure at the Michelin two-star Kanesaka. Chef Yoon brought this extensive expertise to Seoul, opening Sushi Hashira on December 5, 2023.

Sushi Hashira offers an exclusive dinner omakase, with two sittings at 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM. The experience is priced at 220,000 KRW per person. While a corkage fee of 50,000 KRW allows for one outside bottle, the restaurant’s expertly curated wine pairing menu is highly recommended for the full Hashira experience.

A Symphony of Flavors: The Omakase Journey Unveiled

The omakase at Sushi Hashira begins with an array of stunning tsumami (appetizers). The meal commences with a delightful cold, creamy soy milk chawanmushi, delicately flavored with dashi and topped with caviar. This is followed by a rich ankimo (monkfish liver) mousse, enhanced with refreshing ponzu sauce and fragrant chives. A highlight among appetizers is the “octopus three ways,” particularly the unique, crunchy texture of the live octopus suckers.

These initial delights, including perfectly prepared herring isobegi, prepare the palate before the main sushi course unfolds, accompanied by the highly anticipated wine pairing.

The Art of Mariage: Sushi and Wine Pairing at Its Finest

Sushi Hashira’s wine pairing is an integral narrative of the dining experience, showcasing a level of sophistication rarely found. Guests can choose from various pairing options, including a standard tier (Hyojun) at 200,000 KRW or a higher-tier selection (Kyohun).

The pairings are meticulously crafted to enhance each sushi piece:

• A rare Ulysse Collin champagne often inaugurates the sushi course.
• For lean tuna (akami), an earthy Pinot Noir harmonizes beautifully with the fish.
• Fatty tuna (otoro) finds an unexpected yet brilliant partner in a bold Bordeaux, cutting through the richness for perfect balance.
• Sake complements the subtle sweetness of sweet shrimp (bori ebi).
• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc is paired with oilier fish like horse mackerel (aji), demonstrating versatility.

The Grand Finale: A Legendary Pairing

The pinnacle of the wine pairing is the combination of the highly prized Château d’Yquem, a luxurious dessert wine, with Sushi Hashira’s sweet ankimo mousse. This mousse, with a subtle inclusion of pickled radish for texture and acidity, creates a sublime balance with the d’Yquem’s complex, honeyed sweetness. It’s a truly “magical” and unique culinary revelation.

The omakase concludes with impeccably steamed anago (sea eel), typically paired with a final red wine, followed by traditional Japanese desserts like kamaki, gyoku, and a comforting clam soup, bringing the extraordinary meal to a satisfying close.

Why Sushi Hashira is a Must-Visit in Cheongdam-dong

Sushi Hashira is more than a restaurant; it’s a testament to culinary excellence. From its perfectly seasoned, chewy shari to the impeccable quality of its neta and innovative tsumami, every detail reflects mastery. However, its true distinction lies in its pioneering and masterful sushi and wine pairing, a concept executed with such finesse that it’s unparalleled in Korea.

For those who appreciate the finest in Japanese cuisine and fine wines, Sushi Hashira in Cheongdam-dong offers an extraordinary journey. Its status as one of Seoul’s most exclusive dining experiences is a clear indicator of its exceptional quality, making it a highly recommended destination for an unforgettable meal.