Imagine being whisked away to a beautiful Italian restaurant, but instead of cobblestone streets and bustling piazzas, you’re soaring above the Tokyo skyline. This is the reality at The Restaurant by Aman, nestled on the 33rd floor of the Otemachi Tower. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a journey into the world of Aman, a renowned lifestyle brand with luxurious properties spanning over 20 countries.
From the moment you enter the building, the ambiance is captivating. The understated elegance of the entrance, with its simple yet elegant signage, sets the stage for an extraordinary experience. As you step off the elevator and into the hotel lobby, you’re greeted by a breathtaking sight: towering stone columns framing a vast, open space with a ceiling that seems to stretch into infinity. The soft glow of warm light emanating from exquisite shoji doors and a giant washi paper lantern creates an ethereal atmosphere, transporting you to a world of refined luxury.
A Culinary Adventure Begins
The journey continues inside the restaurant, where you’re treated to a panoramic view of the city while savoring an exquisite Italian menu inspired by the Veneto region, a picturesque coastal area on the Adriatic Sea. A refreshing Grenadine Italian Soda is the perfect welcome drink, setting the stage for a culinary voyage through Italy’s vibrant flavors.
The Striped Jack Carpaccio is an artfully crafted masterpiece. Delicate slices of fish are adorned with Malabar spinach and a fresh tomato Puttanesca sauce, a symphony of tastes and textures. The sharp notes of capers and olives perfectly complement the freshness of the fish, creating a flavor explosion that lingers on the palate. It’s a testament to the simplicity of culinary genius, where the most unassuming dish can be transformed into a culinary triumph.
Exploring New Flavors
The next course takes you on a journey through the heart of Italy with scialatielli, a thick, robust pasta ideal for a rich ragu made with roasted peppers, taccole green beans, and celery. But the true star of this course is the polpo piccante, a spicy octopus that will redefine your perception of this seafood delicacy. Tender and flavorful, it’s unlike any octopus you’ve tasted before, leaving you yearning for more.
The main course is an exciting choice between two enticing options: Sautéed Snapper with scallops and saffron, or Roasted Duck Breast with Okinawa spinach, black garlic, and Marsala sauce. For this particular evening, the duck breast emerged as the winner, a testament to the artistry of the chef. The perfectly cooked duck is nestled beside adorable baby onions, the perfect vessels for the rich Marsala sauce.
Tokyo by Night
As the sun dips below the horizon, the restaurant undergoes a metamorphosis. The natural light fades, replaced by a soft glow that creates a mystical atmosphere. The cityscape transforms into a mesmerizing panorama, and the mood shifts to one of quiet reflection. This evening, a dramatic storm rolls in, threatening to engulf Tokyo in its darkness. The scene outside becomes an extension of the restaurant’s ambiance, creating a captivating contrast between the calmness inside and the tempestuous drama unfolding outside.
A Birthday Surprise
No birthday celebration would be complete without a special touch, and The Restaurant by Aman does not disappoint. Naoko’s 30th birthday was marked with a personalized plate, a thoughtful gesture that made her feel extra special. The dessert, a unique twist on the classic tiramisu, features espresso granita, coffee ice crystals that add a refreshing element to the rich flavors. It’s a grand finale to a memorable culinary journey, leaving you buzzing with excitement and longing for another adventure in the world of Aman.
