Den

Den: A Trendy Kaiseki Restaurant in Tokyo

If you’re wandering through Tokyo and looking for a dining experience that’s both unique and delicious, Den is the place to be. Tucked away in the JIA building at 2-3-18 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, this trendy kaiseki restaurant has become a favorite among food lovers from all over the globe. Chef Zaiyu Hasegawa leads the kitchen, bringing a fresh twist to traditional Japanese flavors.

Location and Ambiance

Den might not catch your eye from the outside, but once you step inside, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like a cozy countryside retreat. The interior is bright and features plenty of wooden accents along with charming decorations that make you feel right at home.

The Menu

The menu at Den is a playful take on kaiseki cuisine, showcasing seasonal ingredients in imaginative ways. Here are some standout dishes you definitely don’t want to miss:

• Monaka: The meal kicks off with a delightful monaka, a traditional Japanese sweet filled with white miso marinated foie gras, Japanese plum jam, and pickled daikon. It’s a fantastic start to the dining experience.
• Signature Salad: This salad is a true work of art, featuring over 20 different vegetables prepared in various styles—deep-fried, pickled, grilled, and raw. It’s seasoned with soy oil and shio-kombu, making every bite a burst of flavor.
• Dentucky Fried Chicken: You can’t leave Den without trying the “”Dentucky Fried Chicken.”” These chicken wings are stuffed and deep-fried to perfection, served in a fun take-out carton that features Chef Hasegawa’s face. It’s as entertaining as it is tasty!
• Claypot Cooked Rice: For the main rice course, you can choose between whitebait rice (shirasu) or deep-fried conger eel, both served with pickles and miso soup. The eel rice has a lovely burnt crust that adds to its flavor.

Service and Hospitality

Den is well-known for its outstanding service, which embodies the spirit of omotenashi—Japanese hospitality at its finest. The staff, led by General Manager Emi Hasegawa, truly goes the extra mile to ensure that every guest feels special. From the moment you make your reservation to the time you leave, you’ll feel like you’re dining at a friend’s home.

Reservations and Pricing

Getting a reservation at Den can be a bit tricky due to its popularity and limited seating, but trust me, it’s worth the effort. The tasting menu starts at around $140, and dinner is served from Monday to Saturday.

Contact Information

– Phone: +81 3 6455 5433
– Website: Visit Den’s Website
– Address: JIA building, 2-3-18 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0001

If you’re in Tokyo and love food, Den is a must-visit. With its creative dishes and welcoming vibe, it’s no wonder it’s ranked No. 32 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 and No. 8 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure!