My first visit to Hajime, a restaurant I had been curious about for a while.I opted for the four-hour course, which featured an impressive variety of ingredients. Each component was carefully selected, rich in flavor, and free from any off-tastes. The combinations were exquisite, the presentation of the dishes was delightful, and I never felt bored. Every dish was delicious.However, I didn’t encounter any ingredients that felt exceptionally unique or extraordinary. While every dish was flawless, there wasn’t anything that reached a level of remarkable cooking or an unforgettable taste experience. It felt more like a celebration of the harmony of diverse ingredients and the chef's culinary vision rather than a focus on the individual flavors of each ingredient.The service was outstanding, providing a very pleasant experience. On that day, all the other guests were foreigners, primarily from English-speaking countries. Even from my perspective as someone with a Level 1 English proficiency, I found that the staff spoke English at a level comparable to their Japanese service. I believe their service surpassed that of Ritz-Carlton staff, which likely appeals to affluent foreign guests who prioritize service. However, I did find it somewhat concerning that the chef never appeared throughout the meal—perhaps because most of the guests were foreigners?This restaurant is quite rare in Kansai, but I think there are similar establishments in Tokyo, albeit with slightly different approaches. The one that felt most similar to me was Refevrvessence, known for its skillful use of vegetables and a chef with a background at Michel Bras, who is quite cerebral. I also sensed elements reminiscent of Noma and Cézanne.While the genre is innovative, I personally felt it leaned heavily towards French cuisine. However, I believe the innovative label is more appealing to foreign guests. After all, they might wonder why they would come to Japan for French food.I enjoyed a non-alcoholic sparkling drink and a Belgian low-alcohol craft beer, and with the meal and service charge included, the total came to just over JPY 100,000. I think that’s quite a sum, but I was satisfied. I believe the experience is worth it, so if you don’t mind spending on a meal, I highly recommend giving it a try.
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