よい子
[Tokyo, Minato-ku] A modern French restaurant located in Azabu-Juban (former Azabu 3). The location is southeast of Roppongi Hills. Exit Azabu-Juban Station (Exit 3) on the Oedo Line and turn left at the Torii slope intersection. Turn right at the next traffic light, walk a bit, and it will be on the left side of the building on the 2nd floor. Just before the fresh hormone rambo. 3 minutes walk from Azabu-Juban Station. 12 minutes walk from Roppongi Station (Exit A2). Closed on Mondays, but open for private reservations. The chef trained at three-star restaurants in France and Spain. Originally from Aichi Prefecture, the chef had a restaurant there before moving to Azabu-Juban. As someone from Aichi, I felt compelled to support them. I made a reservation for two and visited. The lunch menu includes three options: Menu Midi (6 items for ¥6,050), Menu Saison (10 items for ¥9,680), and Menu Grigri (10 items for ¥15,730). Additionally, wine pairing (from ¥6,655) and non-alcoholic pairing (from ¥4,840) are available. The restaurant is very small, with seating for 3 at the counter, and 2 two-seater tables. There is also a private room for 3-7 people in the back. All seats are non-smoking. Jazz music plays in the background, and the chairs are Italian-made with decorative elements. The first thing you notice is a cute apple ornament. Today's menu is "Plantan," reflecting early spring. ------------------------------- ■ Rosé Wine (Glass ¥1452) I chose a sakura-colored wine to match the early spring theme. It was my first time having rosé in about a year. It was dry with a pleasant acidity, perfect as a meal accompaniment. -------------------------------------------------- ■ Menu Midi (6 items for ¥6050) ◎ Amuse-bouche of plum branch, lily root, and smoked cod. Presented in a jewel-like box. The "plum branch" is a grissini (breadstick) with a plum-flavored puree. It resembles a delicate and cute Japanese confectionery. The slight sweet and sour taste hints at the arrival of spring. The "lily root and smoked cod" is shaped like white Go stones. An arrangement of Brandade, a traditional dish from southern France made with dried cod and mashed potatoes, but using lily root instead of potatoes. The paste is coated with almost tasteless white cocoa. When you take a bite, the outer shell crumbles, revealing the rich aroma of dried cod. ◎ Carrot, orange, bay leaf yogurt as the second amuse-bouche. A dish where carrot and orange jelly is rolled with thinly peeled carrots. Served in bite-sized portions on a spoon. When you take a bite, a refreshing and herbal aroma passes through. The jelly melts instantly on the tongue. The acidity of tomatoes, sweetness of oranges, and richness of olive oil blend perfectly. The bay leaf, usually associated with meat dishes or stews, surprised me with its refreshing scent. The outside of the dish features a simple Jomon pattern, while the inside is a vivid emerald green. The selection of dishes shows a high level of taste. ◎ Squid, celery, Granny Smith, Chartreuse as the first appetizer. A complex dish with diced Granny Smith apples, squid, and celery tossed in a tartare, topped with a cocktail of Granny Smith apples and Chartreuse (herbal liqueur) in foam form. When you scoop through the foam, you'll find generous amounts of squid. The crispy and muscular texture of the squid blends with the sweet and sourness of the apple. The celery's fresh aroma and hazelnut's nuttiness add an accent. While squid and celery are common ingredients, cutting them into small pieces creates a fresh texture, and the unexpected combination of ingredients is brilliantly executed. Truly a unique French culinary experience. ◎ Bread Homemade country bread (a large, round loaf) served with butter and olive oil. The olive oil is infused with orange peel, and the citrus flavor is prominent.