caillou (caillou) Tokyo

I finally visited a restaurant I had been curious about for a long time, but couldn't go because it was always full.Once seated, I got up to choose my appetizers and main dish from the ingredients displayed at the counter.While listening to the chef's explanations, I found it hard to choose because everything looked delicious, but I ended up selecting three appetizers and one main dish.It was a new style of dining.All the food was delicious.I was surprised to even enjoy some Kifuwine.The drinks were suggested to pair perfectly with the dishes.I felt full but without any heaviness in my stomach, just the right amount of satisfaction.I definitely want to go back. Less

I had the opportunity to visit "Caillou" in Nishikoyama with a friend.Despite being on separate trains, we both ended up getting off at Musashikoyama, which was quite a funny incident. I apologize for our late arrival...The glass-fronted exterior initially made me think it was a fancy place, but inside, it was a spacious and relaxed atmosphere, much more comfortable than I expected.Not only was the food delicious and the ambiance refined, but the restaurant also subtly reminded me of the importance of "who you share your meal with," which truly touched my heart.Here, instead of just receiving a fixed menu, the chef first provides a detailed explanation of the ingredients, starting a process of thought and suggestions on "how to enjoy it" and "what flavors to appreciate." It was so enjoyable to share a moment before the meal where we could think together about the fundamental "ways to savor the food." There were countless precious moments where my friend and I exchanged smiles, thinking, "Oh, I was just thinking the same thing!" I often draw inspiration from restaurants for ideas on flow and space creation in concerts, but recently, I’ve been influenced more by innovative places. Experiencing the ingredients, the space, and the time spent in deep conversation with the person in front of me at such a traditional restaurant made me feel a sense of returning to my roots, which was truly a happy time. I felt something about creating stages and spaces becoming clearer.The system that allows you to request additional dishes during the course while checking your appetite was also a delightful point. We enthusiastically agreed on adding more, saying, "Should we add this?" and "I was thinking the same thing!" However, in the end, we both ended up too full, leading to a bit of a food fight situation in the latter half...It was a warm and luxurious moment that filled both my heart and stomach. This is a special place I would love to visit again when I want to spend quality time with someone important. I want to come back regularly to refresh my spirit. Thank you for the wonderful meal! Less

Nestled quietly in a residential area, this charming French restaurant is located on the first floor of an ordinary apartment building.Instead of a set course, the menu is offered in an à la carte style, with the day’s appetizers and main ingredients displayed in front of the open kitchen. It’s enjoyable to choose what to eat while looking at the fresh ingredients, adding a touch of specialness to the experience. Desserts and drinks can also be ordered separately.The cuisine leans more towards classic French dishes rather than modern twists. Each dish is flavorful without being too heavy, and everything was delicious. The quality of the ingredients shines through, and the sauces and cooking techniques are handled with care, providing a satisfying feeling of having come for genuinely good French food.Since it’s à la carte, you can adjust the portion sizes according to your mood and appetite, which is a nice touch. We ordered appetizers, mains, and desserts, and it came to just over JPY 10,000 per person. I think women will find the portions quite filling. For men, it might be a good idea to add some bread or order an extra appetizer. Less

Located just a minute's walk from Nishikoyama Station, "caillou" offers a unique couture-style French dining experience, utilizing seasonal ingredients and allowing guests to consult with the chef to create their dishes based on the day's offerings.During our visit with six people, we collaborated to order a variety of dishes, nearly conquering the entire menu except for the main specialty meat dish, and thoroughly enjoyed a wide selection of meals.From appetizers to fish, vegetable, and meat dishes, the cooking methods varied according to the ingredients, making each plate a delightful surprise, even within the same French cuisine.Visiting with a larger group allowed us to share and sample different dishes, enhancing the enjoyment of the à la carte style.The restaurant suggests dishes based on the day's fresh ingredients, making the process of deciding what to order a fun part of the experience.With a calm atmosphere that is not overly formal, it’s a pleasure to enjoy authentic French cuisine in a relaxed setting.Sharing various dishes among our group resulted in a highly satisfying meal. I highly recommend this place for both intimate dining and for groups looking to share a wide array of dishes. Less

A French bistro in Nishikoyama with an unusually high rating on Tabelog. I finally had the chance to visit.The staff provided detailed explanations of the ingredients and cooking methods, and I chose a combination of three appetizers and one main dish. An amuse-bouche is included as well. Bread is available for an additional charge.As expected from the reviews, everything was incredibly delicious. The sweetfish paella had a delightful bitterness. The quality of the steak was top-notch.Given that I ordered the paella, the portion was quite filling. Excluding drinks, the total was around JPY 10,000. Considering the level of the dishes, I believe the cost performance is excellent.The atmosphere inside is casual, and perhaps due to the sounds from the open kitchen, the conversations among customers tended to get quite loud, almost making it feel like a bustling izakaya on a Friday night. It was lively, which isn’t a bad thing.Personally, I felt that the distance between tables could be increased by about 5 cm on each side. There were no baskets for storing bags, so for those who prioritize aspects beyond just the food, they might feel the rating is a bit too high. However, since the food was delicious, I would like to return casually. Less

I was taken here by a gourmet friend.First of all, where is Nishikoyama?It’s right next to Musashi-Koyama on the Tokyu Meguro Line.The style of choosing the dishes for the day while looking at the ingredients and consulting with the chef was so much fun, and I was excited from the start.I absolutely had to order the Pâté en Croûte.The crispy, fragrant crust was filled with rich meat flavors.The ribeye beef was also incredibly delicious.It’s sourced from Sakaeya, a wholesaler in Shiga Prefecture.The surface was nicely charred, while the inside was tender.With every bite, the meat flavor spread beautifully.300g was such a luxurious portion.And the biggest surprise was the Ayu Paella!The fragrant ayu combined with the slightly bitter and rich flavors of its innards created a taste completely different from what I had imagined for paella.The rice was thoroughly infused with the umami of the ayu, and I absolutely loved it! I would come back just for this.When I requested to try mussels, they prepared them steamed in white wine.The broth dripping below was so delicious that I’ve decided to definitely have it with pasta next time!Even the dessert, the tea ice cream, was incredibly tasty.The wine that left an impression on me was from Israel!It was my first time trying Israeli wine, and it had a nice balance of acidity and fruitiness.The sommelier explained it all so kindly.This French restaurant made me want to come back for sure!Next time, I’d love to come with about four people. Less

I visited "caillou" located in Nishikoyama.The interior has a stylish and calming atmosphere. I felt a sense of comfort as soon as I entered, making it a perfect space to enjoy a leisurely meal.I tried various dishes, all of which were carefully prepared and delicious. The presentation was beautiful, and I looked forward to each dish as it arrived.Many of the flavors were rich and satisfying, making it an ideal place to enjoy a meal while engaging in relaxed conversation.If I have the chance to dine around Nishikoyama, this restaurant will definitely be on my list. Not only was the food delicious, but the ambiance was also pleasant, allowing me to spend a peaceful time.Overall, I was very satisfied with my leisurely dining experience. I would love to return if I have the opportunity to visit Nishikoyama again. Less

This French restaurant is located near Nishikoyama Station. The place is small and has a casual atmosphere. After being seated, we received an explanation of the ingredients right in front of the kitchen. After the appetizers, we chose our main dishes from the options presented. I selected three appetizers and two main dishes, but I think one main dish would have been sufficient.■ Corn Velouté (Corn Soup) ■ Red Pepper Mousse with Angel Shrimp Confit ■ Pâté en Croûte ■ Sea Bream Pasta with Mussels from Mont Saint-Michel ■ Aged Meat from Sakaeya ■ For dessert, I had tea-flavored ice cream.Everything was truly delicious, and by the end, I felt quite full—perhaps one less dish would have been better. However, I also found myself wanting to eat more. The drinks were perfectly paired with the meal, and the cost performance was excellent. This is definitely a place I want to revisit! Less

I made a reservation for two at 6:00 PM on a weekday.We were seated at a table for two.There are five tables for two lined up, but the wall-side chairs are connected bench seats, so it doesn’t feel cramped.The interior has a simple and calming atmosphere.We started with a toast using the recommended champagne from the staff.Then, we were quickly called to the counter to hear about the ingredients of the day.We chose our favorite ingredients and cooking methods before returning to our seats.Next, we enjoyed some appetizers: cream cheese-filled choux pastries and canapés with liver pâté.For the appetizers we selected at the counter, we had:◉ A mousse of paprika topped with shrimp, eggplant, and tomato.◉ Three types of mushrooms sautéed in butter, sandwiched in pastry.Both were incredibly delicious—dramatically so. We savored them in silence, and before we knew it, they were gone.The aroma of both dishes was amazing. Truly impressive.For the main course, we had:◉ Sea bream and mussels from Mont Saint-Michel steamed in white wine. The small yet flavorful mussels were easy to eat even in this quantity. The sea bream was fluffy and thick, soaking up the soup, making it incredibly tasty. It was a simple dish that clearly showcased its deliciousness.The highlight of the main course was:◉ Ribeye from SAKAEYA!!I thought 200g might be a bit much for two, but we finished it easily. The ribeye from SAKAEYA, a meat wholesaler in Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is praised by famous restaurants and meat lovers nationwide for its excellent selection and aging techniques. I’ve definitely memorized this deliciousness—it’s bound to become addictive.Just when I thought I was stuffed, they brought out a birthday celebration plate! ♡♡The honey and gorgonzola ice cream was smooth and gelato-like. This was the best flavor I’ve ever had! It was delicious and made me so happy! No matter how old you get, it’s always a joy.Personally, I don’t often visit Nishikoyama, but I would gladly travel for this restaurant. It was truly a wonderful place.The staff were friendly, and I definitely want to come back again! It was a great meal! Less

A high-end bistro where you can choose your own course menu. It starts with the chef explaining the available dishes, allowing you to select what you want to eat (the price labels make it easy to stick to your budget). Everything looked delicious, and I wanted to try it all, but since I was alone, I ordered two appetizers, one pasta, and a steak. In addition to my order, an amuse-bouche (around JPY 800) was served at the beginning. All the dishes were delightful, but the ayu (sweetfish) risotto was particularly exquisite this time. I highly recommend this bistro, so please do visit! Less

The atmosphere was relaxed and casual, making it easy to enjoy a meal while chatting, yet the dishes served were truly exceptional. Every dish that came out was of high quality, generous in portion, and provided a great sense of satisfaction. I ordered three appetizers and two main courses this time, but I might recommend reducing either the appetizers or the main courses by one, as I ended up quite full. The staff suggested either two appetizers and two main courses or three appetizers and one main course. Less

This was the best meal I've had this year.I don't dislike French cuisine, but I don't usually choose it actively.I prefer to select my favorite dishes rather than spending a long time on a course meal.For someone like me, caillou, where I can enjoy à la carte, turned out to be a perfect match.After being shown to my seat, I was called over to the showcase.There, I saw the meats and fish that would be used that day, along with the prepared dishes lined up.The chef carefully explained each dish, including the ingredients and cooking methods.Listening to the explanations while looking at the dishes and ingredients made me want to try everything, and I was truly torn on what to choose.From the moment I started selecting my dishes, my heart was already racing.The first amuse-bouche included chicken liver, tuna tartare, guacamole, and the heads of angel shrimp.Each was a bite-sized delight, and they were all incredibly delicious.The rich chicken liver, flavorful tuna tartare, creamy guacamole, and fragrant angel shrimp heads captured my heart right from the start.Moreover, the dishes here are not just delicious; they seem to go beyond traditional French cuisine.My anticipation for the upcoming dishes skyrocketed.The corn velouté was an explosion of sweet umami.The sweetness and flavor of the corn spread throughout my mouth.Even with the consomme jelly adding depth, the umami still burst forth.From the very first dish, I knew this was going to be amazing.The mussels were prepared as an appetizer instead of the main ingredient, steamed in white wine.The mussels from Mont Saint Michel were small but packed with flavor.The broth, rich with the essence of the mussels, was also delicious.And instead of bread, I dipped crispy French fries into it.These fries were incredibly tasty.Once I started soaking them in the broth, I couldn't stop.The pâté en croûte was the epitome of classic French cuisine.The pastry was flaky and light, not heavy at all.Despite the rich meat flavor, it remained light.That was truly wonderful.I could enjoy a classic dish thoroughly without feeling weighed down.The vol-au-vent was filled with French mushrooms, meat, and sauce.The French mushrooms had a depth of flavor that surpassed domestic varieties.Including the bitterness and astringency, everything contributed to the umami.While domestic mushrooms are refreshing, these were rich in aroma and taste.Eating the pastry, mushrooms, meat, and sauce together created a symphony of flavors in my mouth.Then came the aged beef from Kagoshima, treated by Sakaeya Shinbo.The moment it touched my tongue, the aroma of aging spread, and I felt satisfied right away.Tender and juicy, it was truly delicious.It had the characteristic aroma and flavor of aged meat, yet I could finish it without any heaviness.It was so good that I could eat it all.This was one of the most memorable meat dishes I've had this year.I usually don't eat much sweet food, but after enjoying all the previous dishes, I felt tempted to try dessert.I chose the yogurt sorbet.It refreshed my palate while still allowing me to appreciate the richness of the yogurt.And it was packed with flavor.Light yet satisfying.The balance of refreshing and rich is another aspect of caillou's excellence.Every dish, right up to dessert, was consistently delicious.Not only the food but the service was also outstanding.The sommelier had a passion for wine, making it enjoyable just to listen to him.The wines paired with the dishes were, of course, a perfect match. True pairing is when the taste of the wine changes with the food, and I felt that since my experience at SES in Ebisu.It wasn't just about explaining the wine; the service allowed us to enjoy both the food and wine together.While French cuisine can sometimes feel a bit intimidating, there was no strange tension at caillou.The food was authentic.The chef's explanations were thorough and kind.The sommelier was enthusiastic.And we could freely choose the dishes we wanted from the à la carte menu.This is a place that captivated someone like me, who usually doesn't actively choose French cuisine.Food, wine, service.All of it combined made this the best meal of the year.It was truly a delightful evening.I will definitely return.It was a great meal. Less

In the residential area of Nishikoyama, if you didn’t know this place existed, you would surely pass by it many times. But behind the door lies a different experience.As soon as we were seated, we were guided to the showcase. There, the fresh fish, meat, and vegetables of the day were displayed, and that itself was the menu of the restaurant.Instead of reading the names of the dishes on paper, we listened to the chef while looking at the ingredients in front of us: Ayugawa, Pâté en Croûte, mussels, and aged Miyazaki beef. The atmosphere conveyed more than just the names.The chef shared details about each ingredient: where it came from and how it would be prepared. Listening to his explanations was already enjoyable, and the meal had begun even before it arrived on our plates.This was more about choosing a story for the day together rather than just placing an order. We, five in total, exchanged glances and gradually decided on what we wanted to eat.I was glad we came as a group of five, as there were many dishes I couldn’t have finished alone. In the end, we laughed and asked, "Please give us all the appetizers," and the joy of sharing them was greater than I expected.The skills honed in a grand restaurant didn’t feel stiff here; instead, they blended quietly into the everyday life of the neighborhood, leaving a sense of wonder with each dish.The first Crème Brûlée was not just a sweet dessert, but a signal of what was to come. Beneath the caramelized surface lay a rich umami, introducing us to the freedom of this restaurant.The corn potage embraced the sweetness of corn smoothly, leaving a gentle aftertaste with each sip, quietly bringing back childhood memories.The glossy shrimp, while embracing the sweetness and freshness of summer vegetables, gently spread the scent of the sea, reflecting the very essence of the season.The white sausage, without any unnecessary force, quietly unraveled the sweetness of the meat, smiling alongside the tenderness of the potatoes.The mussels from Mont Saint-Michel transformed the memories of the sea into steam in the black pot. The small mussels were packed with the flavor of the tide, engaging in conversation along with the lingering taste of white wine.The Pâté en Croûte, made with venison, pork, liver, and pistachios, had taken a few days to develop its flavors, breathing beautifully within its cut.The aged Miyazaki beef, with each bite, revealed deeper umami, teaching me the richness that only time can bring, without any flashiness.The sommelier pouring the wine was someone who arranged not just the glasses but the air around us. I thought the reason the dishes tasted even better must be because people are also a part of the experience.Eating and drinking, it came to JPY 25,000 per person. I didn’t find it strangely expensive at all. The night felt more like being fulfilled than just being full, and even later, it brought me happiness when I remembered it.[About National Restaurant Ratings] I visit around 300 restaurants a year, from Michelin-starred to standing bars, mainly in Tokyo. I hold a wine expert qualification and enjoy pairing wine with meals.The ratings are based on a five-point scale. I recommend saving places rated 4.0 and above.5.0: Outstanding - A supreme restaurant that remains in your life memories. 4.5: Brilliant - Beyond satisfaction, it’s moving. A special restaurant for important occasions, confidently recommended to others. 4.0: Excellent - Very satisfying. A place that offers more satisfaction than its price. Definitely worth revisiting. 3.5: Good - Not bad. Meals and service are commensurate with the price. May consider revisiting depending on the situation. 3.0: Fair - Disappointing. Meals and service do not match the price. Unlikely to revisit.[About Short Videos] I have a YouTube and Instagram channel sharing gourmet and travel information. Please subscribe and give a thumbs up!(YouTube) @active_lifestyle_japan" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@active_lifestyle_japan (Instagram) https://www.instagram.com/restaurant_hyoka/ Less

This is an interesting restaurant.Located about 5 minutes from Nishikoyama Station, it’s nestled within a shopping street.Dishes are presented in progress, with ingredients separated into appetizers and main courses, all displayed in the kitchen.The chef presents them in front of the guests.Everything looks delicious, raising expectations.In the end, everything tastes great.The wine selection is decent as well.However, the pricing seems a bit high compared to the dishes.Overall, it’s a restaurant with a high level of satisfaction. Less

I finally had the chance to visit this restaurant in Nishikoyama that I had been wanting to try for a long time.The interior is cozy, with only table seating available. The spacing between tables is a bit compact, and there are private rooms in the back.On this day, the voices of a group using the private room echoed throughout the restaurant, which made for a slightly uneasy atmosphere at times.At this restaurant, the staff carefully explains each dish while showcasing the ingredients and samples displayed on either side of the open kitchen.Listening to their explanations, you can create your own course by combining dishes to your liking. It’s rare to be able to choose only the dishes you enjoy, and I found the selection process to be part of the fun.Here’s what I had:Appetizers:- Pâté en Croûte (100g) JPY 2,145- Corn Velouté with Consommé Jelly JPY 2,090- Red Pepper Mousse with Angel Shrimp Confit, served with Marinated Fruit Tomato and Water Eggplant JPY 3,520 (As I’m not fond of tomatoes, they kindly served it separately.)Specialty:- Meat prepared by Shinbo from Sakaeya (200g) JPY 7,898Dessert:- Honey and Mascarpone Ice Cream JPY 1,023Amuse-bouche:- JPY 825What stood out to me the most was the corn velouté. With the first bite, the flavor of corn filled my mouth, and I couldn’t stop using my spoon. It paired well with the consommé jelly, and I enjoyed it until the very last drop without getting bored.Every dish was carefully crafted and delicious.While the price range is certainly not cheap, the joy of creating your own course makes it a great choice for special occasions. Less

It was my first time experiencing the bitterness of sweetfish in such a beautifully delicious way. Starting with its stunning presentation, the appearance, aroma, and flavor were all exceptional, especially paired with the striking golden Languedoc white wine. This French restaurant, where I could choose from carefully selected ingredients, is a gem that I’m glad is not in Ginza. The rustic charm of Nishikoyama remains intact... Now, what could be the origin of the restaurant's name? I believe you'll find out if you visit. I will definitely come back! Less

A tribute to all sweetfish lovers.Incredibly delicious.#Sweetfish PaellaAn amazing bistro.I want to come back again.#caillou 03-6452-2985 1-7-9 Haramachi, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 1F Due West Koyama https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1317/A131710/13279829/ 4.11 #My Tabelog 4.5 https://www.instagram.com/japanese_gourmet_no1/profilecar/?igsh=MWNlb3V2M3Y4d3JhbQ== #TokyoGourmet #Gourmet #ConnectWithFoodLovers #Lunch #Delicious #Yummy #Tasty #FoodPorn #Tabelog #Foodie #InstaFood #Foodstagram #Delicious #Yummy #JapaneseFood #Tokyo #Japan Less

We visited this restaurant for a family celebration of four. It was a place that my client had a close relationship with, and I was fortunate to have the opportunity to dine here.Overall, it was a delightful experience.The style of showcasing the ingredients was fascinating. We were amazed to see a large bone-in meat cut right in front of us, and as we imagined the cooking methods while asking questions, the beautifully plated dishes that arrived excited everyone—truly an experiential dining adventure.My "critic" wife was thoroughly pleased, saying, "The vegetables are different. Delicious! What’s this seasoning?"Our son, who usually prefers tonkatsu and yakiniku, was impressed, saying, "This clam is creamy, plump, and so tasty!" It might have been the moment he discovered the deliciousness of seafood.The grilled sea bream and the seafood soup, which seemed to be based on a bouillabaisse, were so delicious that I found myself asking for more bread multiple times.The beef steak had a deep aroma, and the dishes like ayu paella, pâté en croûte, and the cold appetizers of shrimp, eggplant, and tomato were all carefully seasoned to highlight the ingredients, leaving a lasting impression.Both the renowned chef and the young staff were all smiles, creating a pleasant atmosphere.Thanks to this experience, we had a wonderful family moment during the break in the rainy season. Thank you! Less

We visited this restaurant to celebrate our 12th wedding anniversary.This French restaurant stands out with its exceptional ratings in the Nishikoyama area. I had been checking it out for a while and finally made it here. Although it’s a French restaurant, it doesn’t have an overly formal atmosphere, and I don’t think the dress code is too strict. The biggest difference from typical French restaurants is at the start. The chef personally explains the ingredients displayed at the kitchen counter, and then prepares the dishes for you. Fresh vegetables, irresistible seafood, and mouthwatering meats are all on display. After some deliberation, I decided to try three appetizers and one main dish!We enjoyed wine throughout the meal.**Amuse Bouche**: A rich chicken liver spread on a baguette and a terrine with a sticky texture made with pig’s trotters—perfect accompaniments for red wine.**Pâté en Croûte**: This is the restaurant's signature dish. It’s a delightful blend of venison, pork, chicken liver, and pistachios, aged for 3 to 4 days to enhance the flavors and ensure harmony with the pastry crust. The rich flavors and the unique taste of the liver create a wonderful symphony. Personally, I’ve always thought meatloaf looked fancy but wasn’t very tasty, but this dish completely shattered that preconceived notion.**Corn Terrine**: This terrine, made with exceptionally sweet corn, evokes the feeling of summer. Wrapped in pastry, the beef cheek is tender and rich, having been simmered to perfection. You must try it!**Sweetfish Paella**: At this time of early summer, sweetfish is a must. I decided on it at first sight. I was amazed that sweetfish could be made into paella. It was beautifully grilled, with every part from the bones to the intestines utilized, offering a unique bitterness and a simple yet indescribable flavor of white fish.**Iwate Prefecture Sasuke Pork Loin**: This pork loin is packed with incredible flavor. Each bite bursts with deliciousness and juiciness. I think it would also make a great tonkatsu (pork cutlet) (laughs).We finished with yogurt ice cream.Being able to see and choose the ingredients before they are cooked is something you might find abroad, but it’s quite rare in Japan. I ordered three appetizers and one main dish this time, and it was quite filling. Next time, I’d like to consider the portions more carefully.On a side note, tomorrow is the World Cup match between Japan and Brazil. Let’s all strive for victory!! Go, Japan!! Less

I made a reservation for 5:30 PM and visited for the first time. Unlike other high-end French and Italian restaurants, this one was located in a shopping street in the city. Across the road, the electronics store had a TV showing the Rakuten vs. Yakult game, which was easily visible from my seat. As the first customer, after being seated, I went to the kitchen counter where the chef kindly explained the appetizers and main dishes of the day. I had initially decided on two appetizers and one main dish, but upon further inquiry, I found myself quickly indecisive. In the end, I chose the "Jumbo Net of Young Bird" and "Ayuu Paella," and changed my second appetizer to the "Corn Terrine." The sommelier asked about my drink preferences, and I enjoyed a small bottle of beer, champagne, two glasses of white wine, and one glass of red wine. Unlike previous places, they offered unique wines that were not only well-paired with the dishes but also had a rich flavor on their own. After four amuse-bouches, I enjoyed each dish, all of which were quite substantial, leaving me extremely satisfied, something I hadn't experienced in a while at a French restaurant. The terrine was not particularly surprising and was enjoyed in a straightforward manner, but the ayu paella was more like a main dish than an appetizer, showcasing the fish beautifully and exceeding my expectations. At first glance, it had a somewhat grotesque appearance, but the delicate white flesh and the bitterness of the innards blended with the rice, and I savored the crispy bones. I relished a style of ayu dish that was different from tempura or traditional Japanese cuisine. The consomme soup served as a palate cleanser was rich yet easy to drink, perfectly leading into the final dish of young bird paired with wine. Families with children and various customers continued to arrive, confirming its popularity and high ratings. All the staff were friendly and attentive, making for an enjoyable dinner. After settling the bill, the chef came out to see me off, saying, "Thank you for enjoying a meal with us," which heightened my sense of satisfaction. Less

I visited a restaurant just a 5-minute walk from Nishikoyama.The chef is said to be from La Table Robuchon and Asahina Gastronomy.Interestingly, before ordering, the chef explains the ingredients and dishes at the counter."Amuse" Chicken Liver Confit Rillettes Cheese Red Pepper Mousse "Appetizers" Corn Terrine Foie Gras Brûlée Flower Zucchini, Ratatouille Pâté en Croûte "Main Course" Poussin Jambonette For the two of us, the total was JPY 25,000.Each dish was quite substantial and of very high quality, giving a strong impression of great value for the price.However, the service was very disappointing.When it came time to pay, the staff threw the credit card machine into the air for us to catch before handing it to us, among other behaviors that can only be described as unprofessional. It was quite unpleasant.Rather than just unpleasant, it was completely unacceptable.It's a shame because the food is very reasonably priced and of high quality. Less

A few weeks ago, I visited for dinner. I believe it leans more towards a bistro, but the experience provided a level of satisfaction that was quite close to fine dining.The interior has a warm atmosphere, and the proximity to the kitchen allows you to enjoy watching the chefs at work. What stood out to me was the style of ordering, where you can actually see the fresh ingredients of the day. They display a variety of fresh produce, and you can choose what you want to eat, with suggestions on cooking methods included. The focus is more on à la carte rather than a set course, allowing for a personalized experience. This freedom to assemble your meal heightened my anticipation of how each ingredient would be transformed into a dish. I felt that this approach reflects their confidence in the freshness of their ingredients.On that day, we ordered 2-3 appetizers and 2 main dishes (for two people). The portions were more generous than I expected, and I ended up quite full. Unlike a set course, being able to enjoy a variety of dishes is likely to be very satisfying for food lovers.Every dish was delicious, but the standout was the chef's recommended aged beef main course. The charcoal-grilled beef was astonishingly tender, without any toughness, and the fat was not overly heavy, allowing me to enjoy it until the end. The rich flavor of the meat was prominent, making it a dish I would highly recommend for anyone ordering a main.Additionally, the variety of appetizers was impressive, featuring combinations and ingredients that are rarely seen even in fine dining, providing a fresh surprise. The chef enthusiastically explained the day's ingredients, conveying their confidence and passion for the dishes.One point to note is that since the mains are primarily charcoal-grilled, if you're seated close to the grill, there might be a chance of smoke or aroma clinging to your clothes. If this is a concern, it might be a good idea to request a seat a bit further away when making a reservation or upon arrival.Personally, I would definitely want to revisit this restaurant. While two people can enjoy it sufficiently, I think visiting with 3-4 people to share various dishes would enhance the experience even more. The ingredients seem to change with the seasons, so I look forward to trying the summer and autumn specialties next time. Less

On this day, I visited this restaurant. I had been curious about it because it had high ratings.It was my first time getting off at Nishi-Koyama, and I found it to be a surprisingly nice neighborhood with a lot to offer.The restaurant was fully booked, which shows its popularity. They had a unique style where you choose your main and appetizers after a detailed explanation, making it fun to order as you can visualize the dishes.The portion sizes seemed quite generous, and they suggested that ordering 2 appetizers and 2 mains or 3 appetizers and 1 main would be ideal, so I went with the 2:2 option.The two main dishes were particularly delicious. The appetizers were decent but not as impressive.It seems like the menu changes with the seasons, so I would love to visit again at a different time.It was a great meal!Reservation method: TabelogCourse fee: NoneDuration: About 2 hoursReservation difficulty: No issues if you book in advanceOrder: The dishes in the pictures, plus one non-alcoholic drink and one alcoholic drinkTotal bill: JPY 17,083 Less

Just a 3-minute walk from Nishikoyama Station. This was my first visit to Nishikoyama, and it seems like a pleasant neighborhood with shopping streets. On this day, I was invited by a fellow food enthusiast to check out caillou, a place I had been curious about. They offer French cuisine with an à la carte menu. The stylish interior has only table seating. After receiving an explanation of the ingredients for the day, I made my selections. I ordered:- Marinated firefly squid and clams- Fried zucchini flowersFor the main course, I chose two dishes: one featuring grilled threadfin bream stuffed with cabbage, and the other was their specialty, aged beef steak. Everything was delicious—truly exceptional dishes. I was also intrigued by the braised oxtail. This is definitely a place I want to return to. It was a great meal! Less