Teppanyaki Akasaka — Restaurant in Tokyo

This was our first meal in Tokyo, which I had carefully arranged for the morning of our arrival. The excitement of starting our trip with a special meal at such a prestigious location set the tone for the day, or so I thought.

We arrived 15 minutes ahead of our reservation, greeted initially by a gentleman at the concierge desk. He welcomed us warmly and escorted us to the lift, guiding us toward the 37th floor. His graciousness, however, was abruptly contrasted by the unexpected coldness of the restaurant host. Her demeanor was puzzling—no smile, no greeting, not even a semblance of warmth. Instead, we were met with a terse “Wait a moment,” delivered in a manner that left us feeling unwelcome.

Thankfully, this unpleasant first impression quickly faded once we were introduced to Seok Gumhee, our server, and the talented chef who would prepare our meal right at our table. The chef’s skillful cooking, particularly the perfectly seared steak, soon had us immersed in the dining experience. Meanwhile, Seok Gumhee’s genuine friendliness turned our lunch into a delightful conversation. Her attentive service was a stark contrast to the cold reception we had received earlier.

While the steak was certainly the highlight, the garlic rice fell short of expectations. Made from garlic granules or pre-prepared flakes, it lacked the rich flavor fresh garlic would have imparted. Still, the overall meal was thoroughly enjoyable, and the setting itself added to the charm. As the restaurant is part of the Intercontinental Hotel, we were fortunate enough to be seated at a table with a breathtaking view of Tokyo’s Skytower, making the experience even more memorable.

Before we left, Seok Gumhee went above and beyond, offering to take some photos of us to commemorate the occasion. Her warm and attentive service truly elevated the entire experience. Unfortunately, on our way out, we had to pass by the same indifferent host. I made an effort to thank her as we left, but once again, she chose to ignore us entirely. I couldn’t help but wonder if this was targeted behavior or simply a reflection of her general poor customer service. Either way, it’s something the restaurant should seriously look into, as she is the first face guests encounter, and her attitude leaves a lasting impression.

The meal, though memorable, came at a price—around NZ$250 including the additional dessert we ordered which I felt was plated by an amateur. Yet, despite the mixed service, we were overall pleased with our first lunch in Tokyo, thanks in large part to Seok Gumhee and the chef’s...

Dinner at Teppanyaki Akasaka was an extraordinary culinary experience that perfectly combined refined flavors, elegant presentation, and warm Japanese hospitality. Located in the heart of Akasaka, this restaurant offers an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere with counter seating that allows guests to enjoy the artistry of teppanyaki cooking up close on the 37th floor. The moment we stepped in, we were welcomed with grace and professionalism, setting the tone for a truly special evening.

We chose a dinner course featuring fresh abalone and succulent crab, and it was nothing short of exceptional. The chef prepared each dish with remarkable precision and flair. The abalone was delicately grilled, enhancing its natural sweetness and tender texture, while the crab was perfectly cooked, rich in flavor, and beautifully presented. Every course flowed effortlessly, from the fresh vegetables to the perfectly seared Wagyu beef, creating a well-balanced and memorable dining experience. Watching the chef prepare everything right before us added a sense of theater and intimacy to the meal.

The service throughout the evening was impeccable. The staff were attentive without being intrusive, explaining each dish and ensuring every detail was perfect. The pacing of the courses was thoughtful, giving us time to savor each flavor and appreciate the craftsmanship behind the preparation.

What made the evening even more memorable was the warmth and professionalism of the team. Despite the elegant setting, the atmosphere remained relaxed and welcoming. The English-friendly service and clear explanations made it easy to enjoy the experience fully.

Overall, our dinner at Teppanyaki Akasaka was a perfect blend of world-class ingredients, skillful cooking, and exceptional service. It was more than just a meal — it was a performance and a celebration of Japanese culinary artistry. A truly outstanding dining experience that I would recommend...

I recently had an incredible dining experience at a teppanyaki restaurant that not only delivered exceptional food but also featured a breathtaking city view. From the moment I was seated, I knew I was in for a special night. The restaurant is situated high above the city, with large windows offering a panoramic view of the skyline. As the sun set, the city lights began to sparkle, creating a stunning backdrop for the meal.

The food was equally impressive. Watching the chef expertly prepare each dish on the grill in front of us was part of the entertainment. He showcased impressive knife skills and precision while engaging with the guests, explaining each dish as he prepared it. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and each course—from the tender wagyu beef to the perfectly seared scallops—was cooked to perfection. The variety of flavors and textures was remarkable, and the sauces added just the right amount of complexity without overpowering the natural flavors of the ingredients.

The ambiance was sophisticated yet relaxed, with the city view adding a romantic and upscale touch. The service was impeccable, with attentive staff ensuring that everything was seamless throughout the meal.

Overall, this teppanyaki experience was memorable not only for the high-quality food and skilled presentation but also for the breathtaking view that elevated the entire experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a unique dining experience, this is the place to go. Highly recommended for food lovers who want dinner...