Our Philosophy at TEWATASHI

At TEWATASHI, we have embraced the traditional Japanese philosophy of connecting people through shared experiences. Our name, “TEWATASHI”, translates to “handing over,” representing the exchange of knowledge, culture, and warmth. Every dish we serve is more than just food; it’s a bridge between cultures, crafted with passion and precision.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name TEWATASHI holds deep cultural significance in Japan, translating to “handing over” or “passing something valuable.” In this case, it represents the act of passing freshly prepared sushi directly from the chef to the guest.
Sushi, contrary to popular belief, is not intended to be a preserved food. It is best enjoyed within 10 seconds of preparation, when the precise balance of rice and fish is at its peak. At TEWATASHI, we honour this tradition, ensuring guests experience sushi as it was originally intended – fresh, perfect, and straight from the chef’s hands.

Edo-mae Sushi

TEWATASHI specializes in Edo-mae sushi, a traditional style from Tokyo, where freshness, simplicity, and skill come together. Our sushi is a celebration of the season’s best offerings, hand-selected and prepared by our expert chefs to highlight the natural flavors of the finest ingredients.

Our Team

Meet our dedicated team: Sushi Chef Yuji, who brings decades of expertise in Edo-mae sushi; Carrie, our sake sommelier and manager, who ensures the perfect pairing for every meal; Agu, our tea master, who crafts the finest tea experiences; Toyo, our designer, who has shaped the unique ambiance of TEWATASHI; and Seiji, the restaurateur behind it all, whose vision brings Japanese culinary art to Amsterdam.

Obanzai Cuisine & Izakaya Style

Our Obanzai dishes reflect the heart of home-cooked Japanese meals, served with the warmth and vibrancy of an izakaya. We offer a variety of small plates, each packed with authentic flavors and made to be shared amongst friends, bringing a piece of Japan’s culinary soul to Amsterdam.

A Celebration of Japanese Sake

At TEWATASHI, we offer a thoughtfully curated selection of sake, with each variety selected to complement our omakase dishes. Our sake sommelier ensures that every bottle is served at the perfect temperature, and guests can choose from a range of traditional tokkuri (sake pitchers) to enhance their tasting experience. Whether you are a seasoned sake connoisseur or new to the drink, our team will guide you through the process, ensuring a memorable pairing with your meal.

The Omakase Experience

At TEWATASHI, diners will enjoy a refined omakase experience – a chef’s selection of seasonal dishes crafted using traditional Japanese techniques. The omakase service is split into two distinct dining styles:

• Izakaya Style: A lively, social experience where guests can enjoy an array of small Japanese dishes paired with sake, designed for sharing and conversation.
• Live Sushi: For the second seating, the chef presents sushi directly to diners, made-to-order and delivered from hand to hand, embodying the very essence of the TEWATASHI concept. This unique interaction ensures the highest quality and freshness of every bite.

A Space Crafted by Artisans

The design of TEWATASHI is a testament to our commitment to authenticity. The interior was crafted by skilled artisans from Kanazawa, Japan, the founders’ hometown.
Every detail, from the wooden elements to the ceramics, was carefully selected to reflect traditional Japanese aesthetics. Guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the ambience, with each piece of pottery and decor serving as a tribute to the artisans’ heritage. Additionally, all of our handmade pottery is available for purchase, allowing guests to take a piece of their experience home.

Future Plans and Community Integration

TEWATASHI is more than just a dining destination – it is a bridge between cultures. In addition to our restaurant, we are planning several community events, including sake tasting nights and workshops with local artisans. We also aim to collaborate with local suppliers, infusing our dishes with both Japanese precision and Dutch creativity. These collaborations will be showcased in special menus and events, creating a vibrant exchange of culinary ideas.