PST Roppongi (Pizza Studio Tamaki Roppongi) — Restaurant in Tokyo

Nestled within the bustling streets of Roppongi lies a culinary gem that beckons to the discerning palate: Pizza Studio Tamaki (PST). My recent dining experience at PST was nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an indelible impression that speaks volumes of its culinary prowess.

From the moment you step foot into PST, you are enveloped in an ambiance that tantalizes the senses. The centerpiece—a steel wood-fired kiln—commands attention, casting a warm glow that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining journey. The air is imbued with the intoxicating aroma of crackling firewood, mingling with the faint scent of wood smoke, creating an atmosphere of rustic charm and culinary anticipation.

My wife and I embarked on a culinary adventure, guided by the expert hands of PST's skilled artisans. Our selection of pizzas showcased the diversity and creativity that define PST's menu.

The Bismarck, a symphony of flavors, delighted the palate with its exquisite combination of fresh mozzarella, earthy mushrooms, savory homemade pork sausage, tangy pecorino romano, and crowned with a luscious Benikujaku egg. Each bite was a revelation, a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that danced on the tongue.

The Margherita, a timeless classic, was executed with finesse and simplicity. A delicate balance of tangy tomato sauce, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil transported us to the sun-drenched hills of Italy, evoking a sense of culinary nostalgia and delight.

However, it was the Specialty Duck Pizza that stole the show. A culinary masterpiece that defied convention, it showcased succulent duck paired with an eclectic array of ingredients, resulting in a symphony of flavors that left us craving for more. Each bite was an exploration of taste, a journey through layers of complexity and depth that left a lasting impression.

Beyond the exceptional cuisine, PST embodies the spirit of camaraderie and conviviality. It's a place where food becomes a shared experience, where friends gather to savor the moment and create lasting memories. Whether you're seeking an intimate dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends, PST offers an ambiance that is both inviting and memorable.

In conclusion, Pizza Studio Tamaki is a culinary haven for those who appreciate the art of food. With its impeccable cuisine, inviting ambiance, and commitment to excellence, PST sets the standard for gastronomic delight in Roppongi. A visit to PST is not just a meal; it's an unforgettable culinary journey that ignites the senses and...

We join the walk-in queue about 4.50pm. At 5pm, people in front of us were allow into the restaurant and when we were the next in line, the staff told us that we have to wait outside first as they don’t have enough staff to attend to us though the restaurant is not even half filled. We are ok with waiting as they might be quite popular and the vacant tables might be for reservations giving them the benefits of doubt. We waited another 20mins for our turn. Finally someone brought us to seat…..at the bar counter. We are tourist and have some shopping bags with us so I asked the staff if it’s possible to change us to a table instead. She told us it was for reservations. So we reluctantly took the bar counter seats. The staff offer to keep our shopping bags as there isn’t space for us to put under the stools. As we begin to settle down, we noticed other people behind us in the queue were offered a table instead. I asked the staff again if we can have a table but was again rejected. I questioned how can people behind me be given a table but we were put at the bar counter. That means the table wasn’t isn’t meant for reservation. We wasn’t asked if we wanted a bar counter or table seat to begin with. She then went to check with another staff if we can have a table and they reluctantly change us to a table. It was during the time of order that we were told that we need to order an overpriced drink each. We don’t know there was a rule for it as we don’t read any review before visiting. We just wanted to try PST since they are opening a store in our home country and we thought since we are in Japan why not we try firsthand! Pizza itself was overpriced for the size. Tamaki pizza dough was salty. 5 Formaggi pizza had honey to cover up the saltiness so not as salty as Tamaki pizza. Appetiser Marinated Octopus and Celery come with only a few pieces of tough boiled octopus, however the celery are very well marinated with very fragrant olive oil.

Not a very service oriented place. If they were, they should have put us to a table from the very beginning seeing us with shopping bags. Should improve on customer service. It was raining and cold last evening when queuing, instead of making people wait in line or going in in batches when the restaurant is not full, why not invite customer to sit in? They might even order a drink or appetiser while waiting for the pizza instead of making a beeline. Sometimes milking money is not everything. Good customer service...

Four stars is the appropriate rating for PST Roppongi. If you are craving a Neopolitan-Japanese style pizza, look no further; your cravings will be satisfied, if not but on the pricier side. Despite the critique below, PST Roppongi has a very respectable pizza.

PRICE - prices for this restaurant are much higher than usual. For comparison, a competitor, located approximately fifteen minutes away, had much better pizza, with comparable pricing leading to almost twice the amount of pizza. It is around 2200 years for a “half” pizza, which is four slices. Drinks are also expensive.

Overall price for three half pizzas and two sangrias was around 8600 yen.

REVIEW OF THE PIZZA

(i) Generally

I generally have found Japanese pizza to be on the saltier side, compared to its Neopolitan and American counterparts. While lighter toppings lends itself well, pizza in Japan tends to be saltier and with a generous shot of oil.

(ii) Pizza review - margherita, arrabbiata, and butter chicken

Margherita: very solid. Saltier sauce, but not inconsistent with Japanese pizza generally. 8/10.

Arrabbiata: HIGHLY recommended. Great meat, and the cherry tomato complements the meat well. Also a bit oily. 9.5/10.

Butter chicken: not good, at all. It’s less aromatic and strong from what you would expect from an Indian-esque pizza. Chicken was good. 6/10.

SERVICE - very good service. If you order more than one pizza, the restaurant will ask for your preference for what pizzas should come out first. Just as you finish your pizza, your next order will arrive very shortly. I found the staff to be attentive and highly observant in this respect.

WAIT TIME - I came in the middle of a pouring rain. Only had to wait around two minutes but was told that reservations required me to finish dining within an hour and a half.

DRINKS - I ordered a glass of sangria, priced around 1100 yen. This was the only thing that was truly somewhat negative. It is more akin to a sweet wine rather than a sangria. 4/10.

Beer is roughly the same. It seemed on the pricier side for Japan.

AMBIENCE - casual. The interior is nice, but the chairs are metal and akin to Pizza My Heart. Casual attire...