Sushi as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Sushi is absolutely in that category. The deeply savoury quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. dashi stock does work that no substitute can replicate.

Japanese cuisine philosophy of shokunin craftsmanship shapes how even simple dishes are prepared. There's something about the an intimate Tokyo counter restaurant context that reinforces the comfort effect. barley tea alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.