銀座 ETHICA

We decided to try Ethica after seeing it on the Michelin guide website. We had a great experience! Our servers explained the contents of each dish. Being from Southern California, we are quite familiar with Mexican cuisine, but even this tasting menu had indigenous items that we were not familiar with. I was impressed with the research the chef(s) put into designing the menu. Of our options, my favorite was the tamal—when I took a bite, I really had a Ratatouille moment where I felt like I was home. I also really enjoyed the arroz a la tumbada. This was a new dish to me, and I enjoyed the crunchy bits. My only advice for prospective patrons is to clarify with the staff if you are doing the tasting menu vs. tasting menu + drink pairings. When we made our reservation, we opted for tasting menu only. During our meal, the staff started bringing out drinks with each dish, and we were too shy to clarify that we did not sign up for the wine pairings. Maybe this got lost in translation, I’m not sure. Overall, we still enjoyed our experience, but if you are not prepared to pay the extra price for the pairings, I suggest to be adamant about this.

I had high hopes for this restaurant based on the rave reviews and its unique take on Mexican-inspired cuisine, but unfortunately, my experience left me feeling a bit disappointed. The venue itself is small, with a cozy decor that seats fewer than 25 people. Despite the intimate setting, it took a while for us to be acknowledged, even though there were only two tables occupied at the time. The drink menu is fairly simple, with a small selection of tequilas. I ordered a nonalcoholic sangria, which ended up tasting nothing like a sangria at all—more like an overpowering licorice concoction. I sent it back, but still ended up being charged for it, which felt a bit off. It seems like the restaurant is aiming for a fine dining experience, perhaps even targeting Michelin recognition, but there were several service missteps that hindered the experience. Staff dropped utensils and dishes throughout the meal, and at one point, an appetizer was dropped on the floor before it even made it to our table. They did bring me the original plate, along with a separate dish for the missing appetizer, but the overall lack of attention to detail in service was noticeable and detracted from the upscale vibe they seem to be going for. As for the food, it started off strong but lost momentum in the middle of the course. I wasn’t a fan of the shirako dish (though that’s just a personal preference, as I’m not used to that ingredient), and the queso fundido tacos were a bit too heavy on the cheese—an extra tortilla for each person would have been a helpful balance. On the flip side, the pozole was fantastic and truly enjoyable. In the end, I can’t say I was blown away given the price point and the overall experience. The food showed potential, but the service and some of the dishes didn’t quite hit the mark. I’d consider returning, but only if there are some improvements in both the service and consistency of the dishes.

We had the most wonderful dinner at Ethica. Can’t believe we got the pleasure to dine at such a wonderful restaurant. The staff is fantastic! The food….heaven!! Wine!! Yummmm! This restaurant is a must!!

The service and the atmosphere were fantastic. You can say that the food was well thought of. Great flavors.

one of the best meals i had in Japan really great food friendly staff i cannot wait to visit a modern twist on Mexican cuisine

A very nice Japanese influenced take on authentic Mexican flavors, although spice levels are lower to suit the Japanese customers.

They have one vegan mock meat tacos which was delicious. Quantity was small so I ordered twice to feel full. Great restaurant, waiter speaks some English and can explain the menu. Menu in Japanese and Spanish only but short so waiters explanation is enough. Dessert was ok but nothing special. It was flan that was still frozen in the middle. Probably wasn't meant to be served that way.

One of the best Mexican restaurants I’ve ever been to. The fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients, was delightful! I really appreciated the focus on sustainability and ethics. Definitely will go again!