December 14, 2014
Tokyo, Japan
Sunny and Crisp
Late this summer, I had an opportunity to go to one of the hottest restaurants in Tokyo called Jimbocho Den. Chef Hasegawa is known to be very friendly and talented. The restaurant got a Michelin star only shortly after opening. I have to say, it was one of the best and enjoyable meals I've had in Japan. Everyone in the restaurant was friendly and was having fun while cooking. In addition, they have been very accomodating about my dietary restrictions – no pork or foie gras.
The entrance is very unassuming so easy to miss
The decor is understated and beautiful
My meal started with this beautifully cooked (sou vite, I believe) ayu
Followed by a roasted fish (can't remember what kind)
All of their dinnerware is specially made
And his signature dish – fried chicken served in a box
with a list of his favorite restaurants
And the best fried chicken I've had
Followed by delicious Buri (fish) with beets. Never had anything so good..
And paired with recommended sake
Mackerel roasted on a leaf!
Their signature salad. Best salad ever
With another type of sake
Followed by a light soup flavored with matsutake mushrooms
And the last dish: Rice cooked with fresh ikura. Just as good as from Sushi Saito
And a traditional Japanese dessert combined with Western influence (cheese)
The chef
As I could not finish the rice, the chef made me rice balls to take home which I had for breakfast the next day
love the salad – like a painting!