Autumn is the best time to visit Tokyo, thanks to its bounty of fresh seasonal ingredients such as white truffles that are incorporated in chefs’ menus
Autumn in Japan is a wonderful time to explore the country. Known as shokuyoku no aki or the “autumn of appetite”, the season is welcomed by chefs and gourmands alike because it brings forth an array of exquisite seasonal produce—including the prized white truffles. These autumnal delicacies star in restaurants’ seasonal menus throughout November and December.
Tokyo-based food enthusiast Tokyo Halfie [@tokyohalfie] highlights a few limited-edition white truffle dishes and menus that are not to be missed this time of the year.
Read more: 5 best pizzerias in Tokyo, Japan
1. Sézanne
Since opening in July 2021, contemporary French restaurant Sézanne has earned international recognition and numerous accolades for its consistent excellence. The team is led by the incredibly talented executive chef Daniel Calvert, who elegantly blends classical French techniques with versatile cultural influences and local produce that nature offers.
The Shanghai crab and white truffle omakase course beautifully incorporates the seasonal delicacies, and these are available now until New Year’s Eve. Entrées include the thickened Shanghai crab soup folded in kudzu, as well as the drunken Shanghai crab soaked for five days in yellow wine from Jura, cooked in Koshihikari rice and served in a tart.
The deep aroma of Alba white truffles (sourced from Fior di Maso) harmoniously complements the subtle umami flavour in its pièce de résistance, the Shanghai crab and white truffle porridge. The decadent feast ends with the hot chestnut and rum sabayon tart for dessert, which is baked to order and topped with freshly shaved white truffles.
Sézanne
Address: Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo At Marunouchi, Marunouchi 1-11-1, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-6277, Japan; +81-3-5222-5810
