A renowned Japanese restaurant in Nishiazabu, Yamasaki is a place I have been returning to for years.Rather than dazzling with extravagance, it quietly captivates the heart through its ingredients, cooking techniques, dashi, aroma, and lingering flavors.Each dish exudes elegance, showcasing Yamasaki's distinct beauty and a comforting warmth.Everything was exceptional from the very beginning on this day.The Ise lobster sunomono had a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.Its pure flavor immediately drew me in from the start of the course.The tempura of horse mackerel and kiss fish was outstanding, with an incredible aroma and texture.The light frying allowed the umami to spread beautifully.The abalone soup was a remarkable bowl, showcasing the depth of the dashi and the presence of the abalone.It had a gentle flavor that seeped into my body, reminding me of the beauty of Japanese cuisine.The grilled Kinmedai (red snapper) was a masterpiece, elegantly infused with the aroma of straw, enhancing the richness of the fish.The toasty flavor and lingering finish were irresistible.The chawanmushi (steamed egg custard) with green peas and soft roe was a brilliant combination of seasonal essence and richness.The aroma of the green peas blended beautifully with the creaminess of the soft roe, creating a memorable taste.The tempura of swordfish and eggplant presented a beautiful dish with the fluffy texture of the swordfish and the juiciness of the eggplant.You can truly feel the quality of the ingredients.The steak was satisfying yet elegantly prepared, maintaining the flow of the course.It was a refined meat dish typical of Yamasaki.The dish of flower pepper, aina (a type of fish), and new onions was wonderful, with a superb interplay of aroma, spiciness, sweetness, and umami, embodying the essence of seasonal Japanese cuisine.And then there was the white sweetfish ochazuke (rice with tea).It was a comforting and delicious finish that left a perfect aftertaste.Even the mint ice at the end was refreshing, providing a satisfying flow until the very last bite.No matter how many times I visit, Yamasaki remains exceptional.The quality of the dishes, the comfort of the space, and the reassuring feeling that makes me want to keep coming back.In Nishiazabu, it is my special Japanese restaurant.Yamasaki, once again, was outstanding.