Sabasu サバス — Restaurant in Tokyo

Sabasu Akasaka is more than just a natural pizza and wine bar – it's a place where culinary artistry and the raw beauty of natural ingredients intertwine, creating a gastronomic experience that is both intimate and extraordinary. A stroll down the bustling streets of Akasaka leads you to this haven where a sensory adventure awaits, crafted by the hands of talented artisans.

At the heart of Sabasu Akasaka's creations is their sourdough base – a living, breathing canvas on which flavours are painted with bold strokes. The dough's character, forged by wild yeast and time, is reminiscent of the gritty beauty found in the streets of Tokyo. Upon entering the oven, the dough undergoes a metamorphosis that transcends the typical pizza experience. The crust emerges with a personality all its own: a delicate balance of chewy resilience and a subtle, earthy tang.

The true magic, however, lies in the way Sabasu Akasaka's oven breathes life into the ingredients, creating a symphony of flavors that leaves the palate both satiated and begging for more. One can't help but feel a sense of reverence for the craftsmanship on display as each element melds together, releasing a richness that is unparalleled.

The service at Sabasu Akasaka is nothing short of excellent – a seamless dance that caters to your every need without ever feeling intrusive. The staff's knowledge and passion for their offerings is evident, guiding you through the natural wine selection with ease. One gem that graced our table was a pet nat wine from Chile, a vivacious concoction that danced on the tongue, revealing notes of crisp green apple, fragrant honeysuckle, and a whisper of minerality that lingered in the most delightful way.

A highlight of our evening was the blue cheese "bianco" pizza – a sublime creation that defies convention. The pungent aroma of blue cheese weaved through a luscious oil base, intertwining with the delicate whispers of garlic and fragrant thyme, culminating in an ethereal masterpiece that spoke directly to the soul.

Sabasu Akasaka is a temple of flavour, a place where the humble pizza is elevated to something truly transcendent. It is a testament to the transformative power of fire, time, and human creativity. A pilgrimage here is an absolute must for anyone seeking to experience the heart of Tokyo's culinary...

This place serves some of the best pizza we’ve ever had—on par with world-renowned spots like Pepe in Grani in Italy—but conveniently located in the heart of Tokyo.

We tried two pizzas: the Black Garlic and the Spicy Boy—both were exceptional. The dough was light, airy, chewy, and simply perfect. One thing we noticed (and loved) was that they use shredded fresh bufala mozzarella instead of traditional mozzarella, which gave the pizzas a creamy, cheesy flavor without feeling heavy.

While we leaned towards their creative, Japan-inspired pizzas, we have no doubt that their classic options would also be among the best out there.

We started with the Tokyo Cheese Stand burrata with fresh strawberries—a refreshing and delightful combination. The burrata, made fresh in Shibuya, paired with the sweet, juicy Japanese strawberries was simply heaven in every bite.

For dessert, we had the tiramisu, which was good but different from the usual. The cream was denser than expected—possibly from added whipped cream or extra mascarpone—and the sponge layer could have used more liquid and alcohol for a better balance. It was enjoyable but felt a bit too dense, making us reach for water between bites.

They also have a great selection of natural wines. My husband had a glass of Italian Malvasia orange wine, which was well-balanced and proper—not overly funky or experimental. It was so good he ordered another glass.

We sat at the counter seats right in front of the open kitchen, which added so much to the experience. Watching the chef prepare each pizza up close was a bonus, making the meal feel even more special. The vibe was friendly and casual but with a touch of class—perfect for a relaxed yet enjoyable dining experience.

Overall, SABASU delivers an excellent pizza experience. We’d definitely come back next time we’re in Tokyo—maybe for dinner so we can explore more of their wine selection and cocktails. If you love pizza, this...

While Japan isn’t typically the first country that comes to mind in the pursuit of excellent pizza, I admit I was intrigued by Sabasu. This restaurant caught my attention with its interesting flavor profiles and very favorable reviews, so I decided to give it a try during a visit this past spring. The space itself was relaxed and unfussy, with a minimalist design that leaned more casual than curated. Definitely suitable for a pizza place. Service was friendly. We tried a few small plates before the pizza, though none left a lasting impression. The salad, unfortunately, missed the mark, being overly acidic. It reminded me more of a standard Italian oil-and-vinegar affair. The potato starter, too, didn't arouse too much excitement. As for the pizza—it was… fine. We opted for the black garlic version, which had an intriguing, almost moody profile on paper. In execution, it was well-cooked, with a decent crust and clear effort behind it, but the flavors didn’t quite sing. Perhaps I’d built it up too much in my head. It sat somewhere between interesting ingredients, but forgettable. Dessert, a classic tiramisu, followed a similar pattern. Respectable enough in texture and sweetness, but lacking the richness and moreishness that elevates this dish. A bit disappointed. In the end, Sabasu didn't deliver on the promise I’d hoped for, though it wasn’t a poor meal by any means. Just an...