Seizan

Near Tokyo Tower, the famous old symbol of super-modern mid-century Tokyo, lies a kaiseki restaurant that has gained a reputation as one of the top places in the city for traditional set-course dining. Seizan offers counter seats from which you can observe the expert knife work of the chef, and private rooms for more relaxed dining. The atmosphere is comfortable yet dignified, providing the perfect setting to enjoy quality gourmet Japanese cuisine without any pretension. Alongside the usual kaiseki fare, expect some left-field additions to the menu such as poppy seed mochi rice cakes, and udon with abalone served in a sauce of its liver. Wild game is offered during certain times of the year when meats such as boar and even bear become available. The real highlight of this place is their outstanding soups. The chef stews his ingredients for hours, adjusting the exact cooking time to account for every variable — from the density of the particular ingredients to the minute differences in climate throughout the year.