Garden Lounge — Restaurant in Tokyo

The Garden Lounge at the New Otani Hotel in Tokyo is a stunning blend of serene Japanese gardens and chic elegance, with lush greenery and glittering chandeliers setting the scene. I wasn’t there, but my brother Mitch—fresh off losing a ridiculous bet—decided to brave it alone, showing up in the most mortifying outfit imaginable: a frilly pink maid costume, complete with cat ears, lace gloves, and a poofy apron with frilly petticoats. This bearded man waltzed in, blushing furiously as the staff immediately seized the opportunity to embarrass him further. They dubbed him their “VIP feline maid,” served him at a reserved table for all to see, and even had him posing for pictures with bonsais—heart hands and all—while he giggled like a schoolgirl, clearly loving every second of the attention! The staff’s playful teasing was relentless yet warm, turning his humiliation into a riotous spectacle.

The food was divine—silky matcha lattes, buttery scones, and melt-in-your-mouth wagashi—paired with impeccable service and a soothing koto music backdrop. Prices were reasonable for the luxury. Mitch might never live this down, but he’s already planning a return (outfit and all). Highly recommend this unforgettable...

In all, the experience was not worth the 20,000 JPY cost. I reserved and pre-paid for the Afternoon Tea Course online as required. When I showed up I told them my name and that I had a 4:15pm reservation, and was taken to a table for two. Window seat! Waiter came and left regular menus --- he had no idea about the course reservation nor did the front staff evidently. They didn't speak any English so it took a while to sort out and then get the course menu explained. A bit awkward at points since I was with a prospective client I'd never met in person before. Simply connecting online reservations data to front of house staff would have avoided most of this. Other than that the view is beautiful, the lounge spacious, and as always the Japanese staff try their hardest to work through issues like this graciously. As we were leaving an English speaking staff member did show up and took a quick pic of us and in process taught my guest a couple of nifty iphone functions he...

Great atmosphere, not so good food. Upon arriving, I was greeted by a very friendly host and a few other members of the staff. Everyone was very welcoming and professional. I was also able to order food quickly, and the food arrived quickly as well.

The lounge overlooks a Japanese garden and waterfall, each of which is very impressive for the hotel's proximity to the center of the city. If you come around sunset, you'll also note the direction of the windows if perfect for enjoying the colors in the sky.

I took a point off because of the actual food and drink I received. The Ceasar salad was just lettuce and a strip of bacon, and the portion size did not make up for the lack of ingredients. And the Manhattan I ordered presented well but did not taste anything like a Manhattan.

All that said, the ambiance and live music may make up for some of the food misgivings but for ¥6,000 I think I could have done...