Maison KEI is famous as a grand maison, but it’s a reasonably priced French restaurant that’s hard to book for lunch. After several attempts to secure a reservation, I had no choice but to book for dinner, and luckily managed to get the last seat available. The location is right in front of the renowned Toraya workshop, famous for its yokan (sweet bean jelly). The exterior is a stylish building set in a quaint countryside, but once inside, you’re greeted by a beautiful natural garden that feels so refreshing. It’s simply lovely. Starting at 5:30 PM, the ambiance gradually shifts as the sun sets, creating a truly soothing atmosphere.The staff welcoming us and serving us were all incredibly attentive, making sure every guest felt comfortable.From the very first dish, I was amazed by the complexity of colors, aromas, and flavors. Most guests rave about the "Garden-style Salad," and I completely agree. The visual beauty and the surprising color changes when mixed are stunning. The taste, with its dressing or sauce, features flavors from 30 different vegetables, a hint of salmon, and a delightful balance of umami, acidity, spiciness, bitterness, and saltiness that changes with every bite. The mixed flavors melt in your mouth, creating an indescribable deliciousness. There are no simple dishes here. I thought about commenting on each dish, but there are just too many to mention. Almost every dish offers a complex flavor experience. The soups and sauces reach the level of art.For the main course, I chose the pigeon. I was told it’s the same menu as at the Maison KEI in Paris, and the sauce includes miso.The dessert, another specialty of the restaurant, is not only beautiful but also incredibly complex and delicious, using European butterbur to create interesting textures.I’m getting tired of writing, so I’ll stop here. Many guests seem to come from afar, though I’m sure there are locals as well; the parking lot was filled with luxury cars.Even though I want to go back, it’s quite a distance, so I imagine many people use it for special occasions. I also celebrated a special occasion here.
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