Nihon Ryori Ensui

Ensui: A Hidden Gem in Tokyo

Nestled in the trendy Nakameguro neighborhood, Ensui is a Japanese restaurant that offers a dining experience like no other. Just a quick 5-minute stroll from Naka-Meguro Station, this cozy spot is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Japanese cuisine with a modern flair.

About Ensui

Ensui was brought to life by Chef Ryusuke Ito, who is deeply passionate about traditional Japanese cooking techniques. His focus on dashi, a classic Japanese broth, allows him to create dishes that pay homage to the past while incorporating contemporary flavors. The name “”Ensui”” reflects the essence of charcoal fire and dashi, which are central to his culinary philosophy. Chef Ito is always on a quest to refine his craft, making every visit a unique experience.

The Dining Experience

Ambiance

The vibe at Ensui is simple yet elegant. The interior features a few carefully chosen artifacts, including a stunning wooden carving of a boy and an eel by Satoshi Yabuuchi. The softly-lit dining area has a spacious counter where diners can watch the chefs in action, filling the air with the delightful aroma of freshly prepared broth.

Menu

The menu at Ensui changes with the seasons, offering a delightful array of dishes. Some popular choices include:

• Fugu (blowfish) tempura
• Dishes featuring bonito flakes to highlight the dashi
• Crab appetizer served in a lacquered bowl made from a real crab shell
• Vegetable course showcasing seasonal produce from across Japan

One of the standout special dishes is the shark fin hot pot, where fins from Yoshikiri blue sharks are stewed in chicken broth and deep-fried. This dish is served over steamed rice in a rich soft-shelled turtle broth, enhanced with seasonal ingredients like matsutake mushrooms and ginkgo nuts.

Reservations and Details

Reservations

To secure a spot at Ensui, diners can make reservations through the restaurant’s official website or via reservation services like TABLEALL. It’s wise to book ahead, especially during busy seasons, as the restaurant has a cozy seating capacity of just 14—8 at the counter and 6 in private rooms.

Payment and Service

Ensui accepts major credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) but does not support electronic money or QR code payments. A 10% service charge is automatically added to the bill. The restaurant maintains a non-smoking environment, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all guests.

Special Courses

During September and October, Ensui features an autumn menu that highlights matsutake mushrooms from Iwate Prefecture. Additionally, from December 26 to January 8, they offer a special New Year’s Eve and New Year’s course priced at 40,000 yen per guest (tax included, with a 10% service charge not included).

Location and Contact

Ensui is located at Nakameguro 1-5-12 ATRIO 1st floor, Meguro-ku, Tokyo. The nearest station is Naka-Meguro Station, making it easily accessible for visitors. For inquiries, you can reach them at 03-5860-7530.

For more information and to make reservations, check out their [Official Website](insert link) or use [TABLEALL](insert link).

Discover the exquisite world of dashi at Ensui, where every dish reflects Chef Ryusuke Ito’s commitment to his craft.