7 Seas
【Latest review 2012/3】It seems that my algorithm has changed significantly, and reviews have little influence now. As a result, my rating, which was ★★★☆3.70, has dropped to ★★★☆3.5, so I will revert to my original evaluation. Once again, ★★★☆3.5→★★★★☆4.5
【Previous review 2012/3】With the significant change in the algorithm, Ma Cherie's rating is ★★★★4.12? That's ridiculous! It's not that kind of place! (laughs) To avoid such misunderstandings, I will lower the rating. Sorry, Ide-san, but I have to decrease the rating. It doesn't balance well with other restaurants. If you have any complaints, please speak to the Tabelog administrator (laughs). ★★★★☆4.5→★★★☆3.5
【Previous review 2010/4】The wine bar "Ma Cherie" is located on a side street off the famous Ueno Nakamachi Street in the nightlife district. There is a conspicuous Type A signboard on Kasuga Street. However, due to its shady location and unwelcoming atmosphere in the area, many people seem unaware of it. It's near the yakitori restaurant "Toruei," but it's on the second floor diagonally across from "Sushi Wasabi" (this restaurant adamantly refuses to be listed on Tabelog). Recently, a new signboard with a retro Showa era feel saying "Wine in Yushima" has appeared as a landmark. The bar has been operating with a staff of three, including the manager, two sommeliers, and part-time staff, dressed stylishly day and night. I first visited this bar about three years ago, I think, as a quasi-regular who visits when I least expect it, thanks to word of mouth from wine-loving friends. The atmosphere of the place is very chic, fitting for a bar. We have a variety of wines from France, Italy, California, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Spain, among others. There is also champagne, cocktails, beer, and shochu, which have been added based on customer requests. The food, including the proud quiche, may seem oddly elaborate for a bar, but perhaps because many customers use it as a final stop, the goodness of the food may not be fully appreciated. The one-plate hors d'oeuvre (equivalent to a seating charge, 1000 yen) served as an appetizer is quite substantial, so many people may find it sufficient. However, the occasional dish at Yushima can't be underestimated. The cheese selection rivals that of a French restaurant, and the smoked bacon has a tantalizing flavor, making it a bar that I, a hearty drinker who can't drink without snacks, am very happy with. Now, onto the main point. The biggest selling point of this place is undoubtedly "Tasting three glasses for 1000 yen is OK!" This is an irresistible line for wine enthusiasts, as you can choose any wine on the menu for three glasses regardless of price. The amount of wine poured is more than that of three tasting glasses, but you can taste a variety of wines at the same time, making it a very welcome story for those who want to become wine connoisseurs or want to check the taste of grapes by variety. I also use it for checking the taste of grape varieties and regions. The ratings for wine, atmosphere, and food are ★★★★4.0. However, "Tasting three glasses for 1000 yen" is something that other stores may find difficult to imitate, as wine deterioration is inevitable. Also, that bold pink signboard is a paper-thin sense that could be a noose around one's neck. For these two acts of La Mancha-like courage, I have rated the overall evaluation of the restaurant as ★★★★☆4.5. I am an occasional guest, but I am always very satisfied with the delicious wine and enjoyable conversations. Manager, Akata-san, sorry for the late review. And thank you for the delicious meals as always. Note 1: There are small tables at the back, but the restaurant is primarily a counter-style establishment. Please consider that a glass of wine costs around 1000-1500 yen. There are also premium wines and vintage wines, but I am satisfied with regular glass wines. A 10% service charge applies. Note 2: It is quiet in the early hours, but it can get crowded later on. Open year-round, operating until the first train.