IYO Kaiseki — Restaurant in Milan

Iyo Aalto is an experience more than a meal. From the atmosphere to the dishes themselves, everything was choreographed with great care. Being from the US, my mom and I went as soon as the restaurant opened, at 7:30pm. We were the only ones there on a Tuesday night for about an hour, and it did make us feel uncomfortable to have so many people watching over us. That being said, the level of service was outstanding. Our servers knew every detail of every dish, and how each should be enjoyed to the fullest extent. The amuse bouche was fascinating, the combinations of flavors were nothing we had ever experienced before and each built on the next, even though they were all totally different. The yellowtail ceviche had incredible flavor and texture, although we did find a small bone. The tuna and salmon entrees were stellar as well, with interactive and beautiful presentations. Lastly, we ordered the apple, dragonfruit and sorbet dessert, and it was good but very tiny, almost too small to appreciate all of the flavors. There is also a complimentary dessert, and the offerings were as unique as the amuse bouche. The level of execution of the dishes and the service justify the hefty price tag that comes with this experience. I recommend Iyo Aalto to anyone looking for an extraordinary and unique meal, and hope to return and try the omakase and/or tasting...

Hospitality was 100%- the servers were great, fine-looking, professional and made me feel welcomed.

But from an Asian POV, I’m sorry to say the food isn’t really good.

A few feedback:

1. sour rhubarb juice in chawamushi doesn’t cut it. It’s meant to be savoury.

2. anago/unagi would be better if it had a melt in the mouth texture and no rubbery skin.

3. the pigeon was horrid I couldn’t finish this dish too. Perhaps not marinated well so it tasted too gamey. I appreciate the creativity and presentation but taste was a downer.

4. their signature spaghetti dish was wayyy too al dente it almost felt uncooked. They graciously returned it and send me a new dish but I felt bad. The dipping sauce had droplets of some essential oil thing which made it weird.

I spotted a Japanese chef at the Omakase counter and really do wonder if he came up with these dishes or offered his advice - if he did, I’m surprised.

Bread and airy butter was my favourite! Portions are huge though- you’ll be leaving with...

I had the pleasure of dining at this lovely Japanese restaurant today, and it was an experience worth every penny and every moment spent.From the moment we enter, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming, What stood out more than the delicious food was the exceptional service.The two waiters who served us were incredibly polite and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. One young gentleman from Bangladesh, in particular, went out of his way to assist us,He's warm and helpful attitude really made our dining experience special. The food itself was a testament to authentic Japanese cuisine beautifully presented fresh and full of flavour. From perfectly rolled sushi to delicious ramen and tempura every dish was a delight for the senses.The quality of preparation and attention to detail was evident making it clear that this restaurant prioritizes excellence in both taste and presentation. Love this restaurant 😍 I hope i will be...