LASTRICATO

My friend and I were bowled over at how beautiful and delicious the food was in the 2nd floor restaurant, and bowled over again when the check came. The dinner was (only) 5,500 yen each. Unbelievable. There is a set menu, but within most of the courses, there are numerous choices. Some of the choice...s will increase your bill, but the additional cost is clearly marked on the menu. The set menu includes four courses, dessert, and coffee or tea. The amount of food was just right for us, not too little and, on the other hand, we didn’t feel stuffed. The service was excellent. When we were done with a course, the plates were whisked away, and soon the next course appeared. We talked a lot and ate slowly. When we left, we realized that we’d been there for three hours. The time had flown by. I enjoyed everything I’d chosen, plus the initial cold plate of six appetizers (chef’s choice) that were unusual and wonderful. I especially liked the gnocchi with gorgonzola cream sauce, and the to-die-for tiramisu parfait dessert. The restaurant décor is somewhat spartan; in contrast, the plates and other dishes used are imaginative and attractive. The second floor was quiet, with very soft background music. We were there on a Friday evening. On the second floor, where we ate, there were a few other customers, plus some empty tables. Downstairs, in the Osteria, the food is even cheaper, and when we left at 9 p.m., the place was full. Reservations seem like a good idea, whichever floor you decide on.. One caution: For her main course, my friend order the grilled pork. It came medium rare. In Japan, that’s safe, but if you’re nervous about eating underdone pork, order something else. There are plenty of options. Another (possible) caution: The menu is mainly in Japanese. Our first waiter couldn’t understand English; fortunately, my friend is Japanese. However, later in the meal, another waiter who served us spoke English. So if you can’t handle Japanese, go to this restaurant anyway, and ask for help in English. To get there: Leave Iidabashi station by exit B4b, and turn right. Walk up the slope and, when convenient, cross the street and keep going in that direction. The restaurant is somewhat inconspicuous. Don’t get discouraged. Keep walking. The restaurant is about 5 minutes from the station, on a corner, and may have an Italian flag flying, as it does in the photo that I’m sending with this review.

Visited September 2017