We made our decision to dine at Cuisine française Tateru Yoshino on the firmest of foundations: the recommendation of a friend. We wanted to splurge, but with limitations, and a Francophile pal told us that this was the place to do it. So we headed out to the Shiba Park Hotel just steps from Tokyo Tower.

We were seated at a large table adorned with stylish aquamarine and white tableware, which brought a hint of cool elegance to décor. The restaurant is spacious yet intimate (seating 34 with a private room for 12); even when fully booked, like it was tonight, by smartly suited couples and groups of businessmen. 

Turning to the menu, we opted for the promising six-course menu dégustation (¥9,000), and the sommelier was happy to recommend an accompanying Chateau Grand Village 2000 (¥1,200 a glass).

Our meal started off a little sour, with a lip-puckering cranberry and watercress jelly, amuse bouche, but the following delicate baby goat and savory mackerel, served with flaky mini crepes, was divine. The bouillon of pheasant soup was light yet at the same time satisfyingly rich. Our fish of the day, angler and liver, was surrounded by a bubbly sauce that made the morsels melt in a tide of flavors. 

As the waiters wished us “Bon appetite!” for our main dish, fillet of beefsteak, we were overflowing with “oohs” and “aahs” at the smell of the Roquefort sauce. Complemented by a baby garden salad and sautéed mushrooms, it was heaven on a plate. 

We chose to skip the optional cheese course (¥1,800) and dive straight into les desserts. The overflowing wagon of cakes, pies, ice creams, sherbets and sauces lit up our eyes like fireworks. We chose a delicate green tea mousse and a mango sherbet. The mousse, with only a slight hint of green tea, topped off by raspberry chocolate sauce, was simply to die for.