Hyperlocal Tokyo

Tucked away in a hidden alley off Aoyama Dori, lies the intimate restaurant "Restaurant Lance YANAGIDATE" ❤︎ Opened in 1997 by Chef Isao Yanagidate, who trained at a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in France, this establishment holds a special place in his heart. The name "Lance" refers to the heart of the Champagne region in France, a village that holds fond memories of his training. The interior exudes an air of sophistication, typical of a French restaurant. There seems to be a private room on the second floor (?). Only a set course menu is offered. I made a reservation through the LC Card. The pacing of the French cuisine was quite brisk, and we finished the meal in about an hour and a half. However, the service and quality of the food were truly exceptional. Many couples use this restaurant for special occasions, and it feels more suited for dates than girls' nights out. It can also be used as a wedding venue! ◼︎ What I ordered Tasting Menu ※ Used Luxury Card ＊＊＊＊ Please follow me on Instagram ❤︎ Yoko Kawamura (@yoko_kawamura_)

## Menu and Dishes - **Foie Gras Macaron:** A black sesame macaron filled with foie gras, offering a delightful combination of appearance and taste. - **Sweetbread and Risotto:** The combination of sweetbread (calf thymus) and risotto is exquisite, leaving a lasting impression with its rich flavor. - **Mussels:** Fresh mussels are used, cooked in a flavorful broth of kombu (kelp) and bonito, creating a rich and aromatic dish. - **Squid and Kombu Broth:** Squid and cucumber are served in a refreshing broth of kombu and bonito, offering a light and flavorful experience. - **Spring Onion Soup:** A cold soup with a dry ice presentation, featuring herbs at the bottom. The sweetness of the onion shines through in this dish. - **Tuna Carpaccio:** Featuring both red meat and medium fatty tuna, this dish is visually stunning. Its delicate flavor is a key characteristic. - **Grilled Sweetfish with Herbs:** Served with a perilla leaf sauce and generously topped with herbs. The simple seasoning allows the natural flavors of the fish to shine. - **Duck:** Served with a sauce of sansho pepper and red wine, accompanied by colorful vegetables. The duck is juicy, and the sauce enhances the flavor of the meat. - **One-Spoon Chocolate and Marmalade:** A bite-sized dessert served on a spoon, featuring a perfect combination of chocolate and marmalade. - **Mango Pound Cake:** Topped with ice cream, black sesame macarons, baked goods, and boiled beans, served with mango sauce. Visually appealing and delicious. ## Wines - **Seguin Manuel Bourgogne Pinot Noir:** A delicate Bourgogne Pinot Noir with excellent pairing potential. Its soft tannins and light mouthfeel are impressive, particularly well-suited for fish dishes. - **Champagne Ponson:** A Champagne characterized by delicate bubbles and fruity aromas, perfect for pairing with amuse-bouche and appetizers.

The food was delicious, but the clientele wasn't very pleasant. I didn't think it was worth the price. There were people loudly boasting about their culinary knowledge to the chef, and couples having very animated conversations. Maybe I just came at a bad time... Eventually, I even heard what sounded like yelling coming from the kitchen, and I couldn't relax and enjoy my meal. The dishes emphasized the natural flavors of the ingredients. Perhaps a little less salt would be better. The Charlotte Poire (cake) was very cute and delicious! The atmosphere was just awful, though, so my birthday celebration felt a bit ruined.

The hidden gem-like exterior was charming. The initial soup presentation was also nice. However, the food unfortunately fell flat towards the end. The meat was surprisingly tough and stringy. Additionally, I could see a bit into the kitchen and it seemed like there was some kind of argument going on. The commemorative photo, taken at various restaurants I've been to, was the worst I've ever seen, so I decided not to save it. I won't be returning.

Tucked away in a back alley near Omotesando Station, this restaurant offers a unique escape from the bustling city. While Omotesando is known for its towering buildings, this establishment is surrounded by greenery, creating a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere amidst the urban landscape. To find it, exit from Omotesando Station's B2 exit, turn right onto the small street, and walk straight ahead. You'll then pass through a garden-like pathway leading to the restaurant. I visited for lunch and noticed that the clientele consisted of couples celebrating anniversaries and groups enjoying special occasions. The tables are spaced comfortably, providing a pleasant dining experience. The food was delicious and visually appealing. The sauces were crafted to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients, and even within the same dish, the taste subtly shifted depending on the part you were eating, creating a delightful culinary journey. I was grateful for their accommodation of my allergies. The restaurant exudes an air of luxury, making it an ideal choice for a special treat.