The Fujiya

The Main Dining Room at the Fujiya Hotel brings a fresh Parisian vibe to the historic elegance of the 140-year-old Hakone lodging, which has hosted notable figures like Helen Keller, Charlie Chaplin and John Lennon. Although the venue, which focuses on French cuisine, opened later in 1930, it has been pulling the crowd by harnessing the charm of a European bistro while incorporating the elegance of Japanese dining. The architecture of this restaurant drills home a French temperament. The eyes might immediately draw to the six-meter high coffered ceiling, which features 600-plus paintings of Japanese alpine plants found in the Japan Alps, or the dramatic structures like wooden transoms and columns fixed with sculptures. Expansive windows illuminate the dining room with natural light by day, and the serene beauty of Nikko Toshogu Shrine sets the scene. Under the leadership of Tomohiro Koike, the kitchen delivers stellar, full-service breakfast and classical French cuisine for lunch and dinner. The menu straddles the familiar and contemporary. Depending on the season, you may savor poached beef loin with burdock confit and puree or indulge in a lobster gratin Thermidor that is as decadent as it is delicious. Roasted beef tenderloin is dressed with red wine sauce, while lobster terrine is accompanied by ratatouille. The service here is warm and engaging, with friendly staff who happily converse with guests. The menu is boxed into a tasting course and ala carte, with gluten-free and vegetarian options available.