Jeff Nadalo
Google
I debated whether to share this cautionary tale but figured I’d spare my American and French friends from the misstep that is Les Saisons.
While in Tokyo I enjoyed several wonderful restaurants and sadly ended the adventure at the sole disappointment, Les Saisons. I will start with the positives as the restaurant offers an elegant ambiance and impeccable service that set the stage for what should have been a delightful culinary experience.
However… the visit uncovered a total culinary disaster that left me questioning the chef’s judgment and skill. The fixed menu caters to the Japanese palate and left me craving traditional French cuisine. I kept asking myself what happened to the classic French mainstay dishes.
Ambiance:
Upon entering Les Saisons, I was immediately struck by the tasteful decor and sophisticated ambiance. The blend of modern elegance and charm creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for a relaxing romantic evening out. The attentive staff further enhanced this positive first impression, ensuring our needs were promptly attended to throughout the evening.
Service:
The service at Les Saisons was exemplary, with eager staff who tried diligently to overcome the worst fixed menu I have ever encountered. They were attentive without being intrusive, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience.
Food:
Unfortunately, the culinary experience took a downturn immediately with the arrival of the first dish, a bland crab spread. The second course consisted of an overly fishy raw sardine dish. The disappointment continued with the pigeon, touted as a seasonal highlight, which arrived disappointingly undercooked and lacking in flavor. The black truffle pastry lacked flavor and was a disappointment. Finishing the meal was a bland melon dessert.
Price:
Speaking of prices, Les Saisons does not shy away from charging premium rates, which only heightened the disappointment when the quality of the dishes did not align with the expectations set by the ambiance and service. While I appreciate the effort to showcase local ingredients, the execution fell short of justifying the cost.
Overall Experience:
Les Saisons in Tokyo presents a promising package of ambiance and service, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a refined dining experience. For a restaurant that prides itself on being an example of French cuisine, traditional French recipes in the kitchen are sorely needed to match the excellence found in other aspects of the dining experience. Les Saisons attempts to reinvent the French culinary wheel but fails entirely.