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I’ve always loved trying fusion cuisine, but sometimes it goes wrong—novelty for novelty’s sake. Crony is the opposite: rooted firmly in French technique, showcasing Japanese produce, and taking inspiration from Nordic elements.
In a recent conversation with a chef, I casually asked, “How have things been lately?” He responded with a faint, weary smile, then quietly began talking about the pressure he had been under.
I remember my first visit to Den in Tokyo—it was still at the old location in Jimbocho, before the move to Jingumae.From earning two Michelin stars, losing one, regaining two, to watching its fluctuating rankings on the World’s 50 Best list, I’ve witnessed Den go through many stages over the years.
“This is the kind of Italian cuisine you can only experience in Japan,” I thought to myself. This was at Il Ristorante - Luca Fantin
Located in Sanjo, Niigata, Uozen stands quietly amidst rice fields and rural landscapes. It was once a traditional Japanese eatery run by Chef Inoue’s father-in-law. In 2013, the couple took over the space and transformed it into a French restaurant rooted in the land’s essence.
Taian Table is currently one of the only two Michelin three-star restaurants in Shanghai, a recognition that owes much to the relentless efforts of Stefan Stiller over two decades in China.
I first visited Slovenia in 2018, and I still vividly recall the crystalline streams that meandered through the valley, leaving an indelible impression. Seven years later, I returned, this time driving from Udine, Italy. In less than an hour, we found ourselves once again at Hiša Franko.
Restaurants
I’ve always loved trying fusion cuisine, but sometimes it goes wrong—novelty for novelty’s sake. Crony is the opposite: rooted firmly in French technique, showcasing Japanese produce, and taking inspiration from Nordic elements.
In a recent conversation with a chef, I casually asked, “How have things been lately?” He responded with a faint, weary smile, then quietly began talking about the pressure he had been under.
Tucked quietly inside this mock-Mediterranean village is Due Camini, the resort’s fine dining restaurant. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried. The chef, Domingo Schingaro, doesn’t speak much about his philosophy, but by the time you finish the menu, it becomes clear that every choice is intentional.
Surely someone should have thought of this sooner, shouldn’t they?
I've always loved sushi. Being in Niigata Prefecture, the “Land of Rice and Fish”, sushi was definitely not to be missed. Even more so, our destination that day was no ordinary sushi joint, but “Sushi Tokiwa,” a Michelin one-star establishment that’s notoriously difficult to book.
I remember my first visit to Den in Tokyo—it was still at the old location in Jimbocho, before the move to Jingumae.From earning two Michelin stars, losing one, regaining two, to watching its fluctuating rankings on the World’s 50 Best list, I’ve witnessed Den go through many stages over the years.
“This is the kind of Italian cuisine you can only experience in Japan,” I thought to myself. This was at Il Ristorante - Luca Fantin
Located in Sanjo, Niigata, Uozen stands quietly amidst rice fields and rural landscapes. It was once a traditional Japanese eatery run by Chef Inoue’s father-in-law. In 2013, the couple took over the space and transformed it into a French restaurant rooted in the land’s essence.
