Sushi by the River: An Exquisite Osaka Dining Experience at Tosa
When I went to Tosa restaurant in Osaka, I felt like I was entering a little corner of paradise along the river. The restaurant overlooks the water, and this gives a feeling of absolute calm, which stays with you throughout the dinner. It is one of those places that do not impress with exaggerated luxury, but with the attention to detail and the refinement of the preparations.
Ambience and Atmosphere
As soon as I entered, I immediately noticed the elegant simplicity of the place. It is not large, but it is well organized and bright thanks to the windows that offer a wonderful view of the river. There is something magical in dining while watching the water flow peacefully while the sushi is prepared right in front of you. The feeling is that of being part of a ritual, where every gesture of the chef has a meaning.
The Sushi
But the real star is, of course, the fish. The sashimi I tried was simply perfect. Every piece of tuna, salmon and white fish was cut impeccably and melted in the mouth. There is nothing elaborate about the presentation, because here the focus is on the quality of the raw materials. The mixed sashimi was served with a light ponzu sauce that enhanced without overpowering the delicate flavors of the fresh fish.
I also had the opportunity to try the grilled fish: the contrast between the crispiness on the outside and the softness on the inside was a perfect balance. Every bite was an experience, and the smoky flavor added a complexity that I had not expected.
Service
The service at Tosa was exemplary. Despite the restaurant being full, the staff looked after us with a care that is rarely found. The chefs work with absolute precision, but without the rigidity that is often seen in high-end restaurants. It almost seemed as if they were proud to share their work with us, explaining the dishes and recommending the best pairings without ever being intrusive.
Prices
The prices, as is natural for a (top notch) restaurant of this quality, are in the medium-high range, with an expense of around 7,000-10,000 (72$) yen per person. But considering the freshness and perfection of the food, every yen spent is justified.
