Nanakusa

Rica Maezawa is a bright star on the Tokyo culinary scene, famous as a leading expert on authentic Edo era cuisine. This period was roughly analogous to the European enlightenment; a time of peace, prosperity, art, and culture. This zeitgeist birthed some fantastic food, but sadly there are only a few chefs who still keep the authentic historic traditions going. To do so, Maezawa-san studied under Hiroshi Fukuda, a now-retired expert on Edo era cuisine. He taught her everything there is to know about these ostensibly simple, but actually complex foods. Her restaurant is a contemporary space, but comfortable and tidy. The menu makes great use of seasonal produce, with wild vegetables, Japanese pumpkin, mushrooms, and root vegetables featuring from spring to winter. Some western ingredients also make an appearance, like dill and olive oil used to prepare fish. Keen palates will also sense some Scandinavian influence worked in at times too. Maezawa-san’s delicious cooking and great hospitality have won her a Michelin star and a huge reputation, so making a reservation is recommended.