Update-date: Oct 21 2024
Categories:
Tokyo
The world-renowned restaurant guides 'Gault & Millau' and 'Michelin'. This article introduces seven restaurants in Tokyo that can be considered representatives of Japan, scoring 18 points or more out of 20 in 'Gault & Millau 2024' and also earning stars in 'Michelin Guide Tokyo 2024'. These restaurants offer not only exquisite cuisine but also top-notch service, making them must-visit destinations at least once in a lifetime.
1. French Cuisine [ESqUISSE] Ginza
Tradition and innovation. A poetic French cuisine presented by a chef from France.
The restaurant in Ginza, identified as ESqUISSE, has repeatedly earned Michelin stars and received a high rating of 18.5 in 'Gault & Millau 2024'. Lionel Beccat, an executive chef from Corsica, France, captivates guests with his unique flavors that respect French culinary traditions and techniques while incorporating Japanese ingredients and methods. Pay special attention to the herbs and citrus aromas that accentuate the dishes.
While being a grand maison, one of its charms is the open and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant. The lighting design is creatively engineered, gradually changing in brightness and hue to match the time of day, creating a delightful ambiance. Along with approximately 450 types of wine, meticulously selected to complement the lingering taste of the dishes, you can indulge in the delicate and poetic French cuisine.
ESqUISSE
Open: Lunch 12:00 pm (L.O. 1:00 pm) / [Weekdays, Saturday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 30,000 JPY / [Lunch] 15,000 JPY
Access: 1 minute walk from B6 Exit of Ginza Station on Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Hibiya Line
Address: 9F, Royal Crystal Ginza, 5-4-6, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
More Details Reservation
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 30,000 JPY / [Lunch] 15,000 JPY
Access: 1 minute walk from B6 Exit of Ginza Station on Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Hibiya Line
Address: 9F, Royal Crystal Ginza, 5-4-6, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
More Details Reservation
2. Chinese Cuisine [Sazenka] Hiroo
Chinese cuisine uniquely blended with Japanese elements, available only here
Located about a 10-minute walk from Hiroo Station, in a corner of Minami-Azabu, stands the detached house restaurant, [Sazenka]. The chef, Tomoya Kawada, who has trained at renowned Chinese and Japanese restaurants, offers Chinese cuisine that combines the robust flavors of Chinese dishes with the deep, savory deliciousness of Japanese cuisine, embodying the spirit of "Wakonkansai" (the Japanese spirit imbued with Chinese learning). Enjoy the exquisite balance of Japanese and Chinese elements.
A detached house that makes guests forget the hustle and bustle of the city, almost like a hidden retreat. Upon entering the restaurant, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of 'Zen', creating a sensation of sharpened mindfulness. The carefully selected tableware, including Arita ware by Mr. Hironori Kajihara and pots and peach-shaped dishes purchased in Jingdezhen, are also worth checking out, as they enhance the dining experience. From small dishes to main courses and tea, the restaurant allows guests to thoroughly enjoy the flow of the meal.
Sazenka
Open: [Tuesday - Saturday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular, mainly on Sunday or Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 35,000 JPY
Access: 10-minute walk from Hiroo station of Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line / 11-minute walk from Shirokane-takanawa station of Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and Toei Mita Line
Address: 4-7-5, Minamiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
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Closed: Irregular, mainly on Sunday or Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 35,000 JPY
Access: 10-minute walk from Hiroo station of Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line / 11-minute walk from Shirokane-takanawa station of Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and Toei Mita Line
Address: 4-7-5, Minamiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
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3. Japanese Cuisine [RyuGin] Hibiya
![Japanese Cuisine [Ryugin] Hibiya](/gg/content_image/MC_3994_130737_1.jpg)
Located in Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, [Japanese Cuisine RyuGin] is a highly acclaimed restaurant that has earned multiple prestigious ratings, including three Michelin stars. The chef, Seiji Yamamoto, showcases the richness of Japan through his dishes. He elevates the finest natural ingredients sourced from Japan's mountains and seas, such as femail snow crabs with eggs, bonitos from Kochi, and matsutake mushrooms, using innovative cooking techniques to create exquisite culinary masterpieces.
The interior of the restaurant offers a refined space where one can sharpen their senses and fully engage with Japanese cuisine. The seats are spaciously arranged, and throughout the floor, first-rate tableware is displayed like in an art museum. The cuisine, the space, and the tableware all allow one to experience the richness of Japan. Of course, the service is impeccable. In this serene space, far removed from any clamor, you can experience the thrill of encountering exquisite Japanese dishes.
Japanese cuisine RyuGin
Open: Dinner 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm (last order 8:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 40,000 JPY / [Lunch] 30,000 JPY
More Details
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 40,000 JPY / [Lunch] 30,000 JPY
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4. Japanese Cuisine [Kohaku] Iidabashi
One and only Japanese cuisine crafted with unwavering skill and original sensibility
Located just a two-minute walk from Iidabashi Station, [Kohaku] is one of Japan's representative Japanese restaurants. With the theme of 'Japanese cuisine that can only be enjoyed here,' it respects the core elements such as the flavor of the ingredients and basic techniques, while adding a unique sensibility. The introduction of ingredients like truffles and beef, as well as innovative combinations and course developments, showcases new frontiers in Japanese cuisine.
The interior of the restaurant is subtly adorned with calligraphy and paintings, creating an ambiance akin to a gallery. The chef, Mr. Koizumi, is known for his gentle personality, which contributes to the warm and comfortable atmosphere that envelops the restaurant. In addition to special counter seats, there are table seats with a moderate sense of openness. Although not private rooms, these spaces allow guests to relax comfortably, making them ideal for business dinners and other formal occasions.
Kohaku
Open: [Weekday,Saturday,Day Before Holidays] 5:30 pm - 12:00 am (last order 10:30 pm)
Closed: Sunday,Holidays
Average price: [Dinner] 25,000 JPY / [Lunch] 25,000 JPY
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Closed: Sunday,Holidays
Average price: [Dinner] 25,000 JPY / [Lunch] 25,000 JPY
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5. French Cuisine [Quintessence] Shinagawa
The 'Omakase Course' that brings out the deliciousness of the ingredients of the day
Located in North Shinagawa, [Quintessence] is a French restaurant led by Chef Shuzo Kishida, who became the youngest three-star chef in 2007 and garnered significant attention. The menu is a blank slate, offering only a 'OMAKASE course' to utilize the day's ingredients in their prime condition. Each dish is crafted to maximize the natural flavors of the ingredients, resulting in simple yet sublime plates.
Mr. Kishida's philosophy that 'each ingredient is carefully selected, but ornate decorations are unnecessary' is reflected not only in the cuisine but also in the restaurant's interior. Upon opening the heavy wooden door, guests are greeted by a simple and calming space. The service, which attentively caters to each guest, is a secret to its popularity. It is said that they always inquire about any dislikes at the reservation stage to fully meet expectations.
Quintessence
Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm (last order 8:30 pm)
Closed: Sunday, centering on Sunday 6th, New Year's holiday, summer vacation (Please inquire in detail)
Average price: [Dinner] 30,000 JPY / [Lunch] 10,000 JPY
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Closed: Sunday, centering on Sunday 6th, New Year's holiday, summer vacation (Please inquire in detail)
Average price: [Dinner] 30,000 JPY / [Lunch] 10,000 JPY
More Details
6. French Cuisine [Gastronomy Joël Robuchon] Ebisu
Experience France with exquisite cuisine and elegant service
Located within Ebisu Garden Place, [Gastronomie Joël Robuchon] is a grand maison established by the master of French cuisine, Joël Robuchon. While inheriting the traditional French style, a new era began in 2021 with Kenichiro Sekiya assuming the role of head chef. Guests can expect delicate dishes and elegant service, offering an experience of France while in Japan.
The building, which is said to have been relocated from a noble's mansion, exudes elegance both inside and out. A space beyond the ordinary unfolds, allowing one to immerse themselves in a luxurious atmosphere. On the top floor, there are three private rooms called salons, accommodating 4, 8, and 16 guests respectively, offering moments filled with a special sense of exclusivity. It is advised to consult in advance before visiting.
Gastronomy Joël Robuchon
Open: [Sunday,Saturday,Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - (last order 1:00 pm)Dinner 5:30 pm - (last order 8:00 pm)
Closed: *Not open during weekday lunch hours.
Average price: [Dinner] 100,000 JPY / [Lunch] 50,000 JPY
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Closed: *Not open during weekday lunch hours.
Average price: [Dinner] 100,000 JPY / [Lunch] 50,000 JPY
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7. Japanese Cuisine [Kanda] Toranomon
A Japanese restaurant in Toranomon that continues to attract global attention even after relocating
After 18 years in Moto-Azabu, the Japanese restaurant [Kanda] has relocated to Toranomon. Its excellence is recognized worldwide, scoring 19 out of 20 in the 'Gault & Millau 2024' and earning three stars in the 'Michelin Guide Tokyo 2024'. Gourmets from both Japan and abroad flock to taste the flavors crafted by owner-chef Hiroyuki Kanda, whose family also ran a Japanese restaurant.
The restaurant, featuring an open-air garden and equipped with an entrance and a waiting room, offers a variety of ingenious touches that create a relaxing space for adults. Art pieces adorn the walls, and at the entrance, visitors are greeted by a 'Kegon Waterfall' painting framed in hinoki wood. The counter is made of Kasuga cedar, enhancing the presentation of the dishes.
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.
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