Tyler S.
Yelp
The Pizza Bar on 38th at the Mandarin Oriental in Tokyo is a world-class pizzeria currently ranked #4 in the world and #1 in Asia on the 50 Top Pizza list. Helmed by the talented Chef Daniele Cason from Rome, the restaurant is a testament to the synergy of peak-season Japanese produce and Italian culinary craftsmanship.
Chef Cason's expertise is evident in the dough - a signature blend of five Italian flours and San Pellegrino sparkling water, achieving 80% hydration. This results in a base that is light, crisp, and hearty: a perfect platform for high-quality toppings.
At dinner, the restaurant offers an elevated omakase menu that features ten types of pizza, allowing the diner to sample the breadth of the chef's creations. The marinara and margherita pizzas at the beginning of the course were the best: simple, pure expressions and terroir and mastery. The cherry tomatoes from Chiba on the marinara pizza were the sweetest I'd ever tasted.
However, the omakase concept can be a double-edged sword. While it showcases the chef's range, not every creation may suit individual tastes, and the portions of the favorites are naturally limited. For this reason, a lunch visit to order the marinara pizza a la carte is my recommendation.
At the end of the meal, I took a moment to extend my heartfelt thanks to Chef Daniele. I am in awe of the work that goes into developing and producing the pizzas; he put a smile on my face. Rankings aside, it's the distinctive dough and crust that leave a lasting impression, and the commitment to partnering with 19 local farms, as proudly listed on the back of the menu, truly embodies the spirit of culinary excellence.