Pilar Akaneya — Restaurant in Madrid

Pilar Akaneya is a slice of Japan tucked away in a quiet Madrid neighborhood, across from a supermarket and MO de Movimiento (yes, that pizza place from Somebody Feed Phil). Don’t let the unassuming location fool you—this place is an unforgettable culinary experience.

The Atmosphere From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to a traditional Japanese home, complete with wooden walls, fabric partitions, and a minimalist aesthetic that feels both cozy and authentic. Before heading to your table, the hostess gives you a quick intro to the restaurant’s concept and its history—a nice touch that sets the tone for the evening.

The Menu There are three menus to choose from: • €80 • €120 • €390 requiring five days’ advance notice.

Each menu is a multi-course event, with the standout being the Kobe beef—imported straight from Japan and cooked right at your table over high-temperature charcoal. The beef is sliced for you, and you’re in charge of grilling it to perfection. Spoiler: it’s incredible. Tender, flavorful, and so good you’ll start wondering if you can justify the €390 menu next time.

Dessert Just when you think the meal couldn’t get better, dessert arrives, featuring an assortment of sweets crowned by the crown melon. If you’ve never heard of it, don’t worry—the staff will explain (or Google it, but honestly, just wait for the surprise). It’s the epitome of fresh, juicy sweetness and the perfect way to end the meal.

The Service The staff here are as exceptional as the food—attentive, friendly, and true experts in guiding you through the experience. They’ll explain every dish and show you how to cook your beef, but let’s be real: I retained none of it because I was too busy devouring everything in sight.

They’re also incredibly accommodating. I don’t eat seafood, and they worked with the kitchen to provide delicious alternatives without compromising the quality of the meal.

Overall

Pilar Akaneya is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a Kobe beef aficionado, a crown melon enthusiast (soon-to-be, anyway), or just someone looking for a special night out, this place delivers in spades. Bring your appetite—and maybe start planning for that...

My family and I recently dined at Pilar Akaneya on Tuesday, July 9th, 2024, following a recommendation from a friend. We had reserved a table for eight people, consisting of six adults and two 11-year-old children. Unfortunately, our experience was far from satisfactory.

Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by the lady at the front desk, who then guided us to our table. To our surprise, we found that our party had been split into two separate tables. When we inquired about this arrangement, a waiter named Adrian approached us and, in a very rude manner, informed us that seating a large family together would create noise and disturb other patrons. This unprofessional and insensitive explanation left us feeling shocked and uncomfortable.

Never before have we encountered such treatment at a restaurant. Despite accepting the separate seating arrangement, we found ourselves having dinner in a rather sad and tense atmosphere, feeling as though we couldn’t converse freely without fear of being reprimanded.

To make matters worse, before we even sat down, Adrian asked us to not raise our voices while talking. This additional request added to our stress and discomfort, making us feel unwelcome and scrutinized.

While the food itself was good, the poor treatment we received from Adrian overshadowed our entire dining experience. This incident has left a lasting negative impression, and we will definitely not be returning to Pilar Akaneya. Our night out was supposed to be an enjoyable family gathering, but instead, it turned into the worst dining experience we have ever had.

In conclusion, although Pilar Akaneya may serve good food, the way we were treated was unacceptable. I hope the management takes this feedback seriously and addresses such behavior to prevent future patrons from experiencing the...

An Authentic Slice of Japan! Stepping into the sliding door of Pilar Akaneya was like being transported directly to Japan. The experience was truly unreal, immersing us in Japanese culture from the moment we entered.

The quality of service was impeccable. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and embodied the essence of Japanese hospitality. Their attention to detail and courteous demeanor enhanced our dining experience significantly.

The star of the show was undoubtedly the meat (A5). we took the 2nd menu (120pp). Its quality was outstanding – tender, flavorful, and prepared to perfection. Each bite was a testament to the chef's skill and the restaurant's commitment to using only the finest ingredients.

What truly set this place apart were the detailed explanations and descriptions provided for each dish. The staff took the time to explain the origins, preparation methods, and cultural significance of our meals. This added depth to our dining experience, making us feel like we were on a culinary journey through Japan.

The combination of exceptional food, stellar service, and educational component made for an incredible evening. It wasn't just a meal; it was an experience that engaged all our senses and left us with a deeper appreciation for Japanese cuisine and culture.

Without a doubt, we will be returning to this gem of a restaurant. For anyone seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience without leaving Madrid, this place is an...