Shihouan

This premium kaiseki restaurant in Aoyama-Itchome is one of the area’s best-kept secrets, little-known to visitors but beloved by locals. Part of tis charm is the historic mansion house which serves as the setting. The pristine courtyard garden could rival even the Zen temples of Kyoto, and transports guests a million miles from the chaos of the city when they walk inside. Their cuisine is likewise elegant. Under the motto of ‘pioneering the future while preserving tradition,’ their extensive course menus showcase the philosophical spirit which underpins traditional kaiseki dining. In private tatami rooms, guests are served a series of small dishes featuring premium seasonal ingredients from around Japan: sea urchin from Hokkaido, Kobe wagyu beef, fugu pufferfish, and more. Each is cooked according to traditional kaiseki methods, which focus on highlighting the natural flavors of each ingredient. The result is a luxurious and meditative dining experience which will linger in the memory for a lifetime.