Nigiri-zushi, or "hand-pressed" sushi is a quintessential part of Japanese culinary culture. It entails a special dining experience where one sits across the counter from the sushi chef. We take a look at a popular sushi restaurant that maintains tradition while putting a new twist on their ingredients, as well as a high-end shop that has begun to reconsider their rigorous training to nurture young chefs, as we explore new trends in this cuisine that is loved around the world.

• lae astra