UNIHOLIC

With a strong buzz on social media, UNIHOLIC is a seafood lover's dream — or, specifically, an uni lover’s. Often seen as a less approachable delicacy, the Japanese sea urchin is spiny on the outside but heavenly tender and decadent within. Located at a busy intersection in Roppongi, UNIHOLIC is proving that this ocean treasure is more than worth the experience. The store’s uni is incredibly fresh and delicious but set at reasonable rates. Its unapologetic passion for sea urchins is evident in every detail, from the spiny, globular chandeliers to the washbasins, sea urchin murals, and spike-patterned partitions. A giant, concrete-washed table contrasts with a yellow color palette — the vibrant hue of freshly shucked sea urchin roe. The menu is dedicated to regional uni. UNIHOLIC stocks five to six different types of uni daily, each varying by season and origin, offering distinct flavors with every selection. Start with fresh fish carpaccio adorned with vibrant yellow-orange uni morsels, or indulge in uni-infused butter ready to be smeared over warm baguettes. The piece de resistance is the decadent claypot rice, a luxurious combination of sea urchin and salmon roe. It’s recommended that first-time visitors try the course menu to discover the depth of uni’s culinary capabilities. Japanese botanical spirits make a perfect companion to the complex flavor of uni. UNIHOLIC offers three signature spirits using Japanese botanicals, such as yuzu, sakura and hinoki wood.