L’as

Number one most frequently recommended restaurant in Tokyo, at least as counted by the times I have asked. Well justified based on the tasty food and great value. Menu doesn’t change that often but why mess with something that works. Nice interesting wine pairing. Hits the «fancy French tasting menu» craving head on without being too fussy

If you are looking for a stylish spot to enjoy a multi-​course French meal at a reasonable price, L’As is the place for you. There aren’t many places that serve food of this quality and variety for just 5,250 yen per person. It’s even better if you are a wine lover, as the wine course is decided first, then the dishes are created to pair with the wine.
So what do you get for your hard-​earned 5,250 yen? The menu changes regularly, but this is what we were served at our dinner in early February.
1. amuse bouche #1: house-​made mozzarella cheese
2. amuse bouche #2: renkon chip dusted with paprika
3. foie gras crispy sandwich
4. truffled polenta (sorry, no photo)
5. cold appetizer of sliced mushrooms and prosciutto (sorry, no photo)
6. warm appetizer of a rich seafood bisque
7. Spanish mackerel poêlé (fish dish of the day)
8. stewed lamb and piperade (meat dish of the day)
9. pre-​dessert of sweet tomatoes in olive oil
10. dessert of coconut gnocchi with mikan sorbet
The portions were just the right size for us and all of the dishes are very competently made. The foie gras crispy sandwich is their most well-​known dish, but while it is fun to eat, I wish it were more savory instead of sweet. The mushroom dish was delicious and the Spanish mackerel was perfectly cooked.
It’s also definitely worthwhile to get the wine set. The price is around 5,000 yen for 5 glasses (sorry, I forgot the exact price) and the wines are great for people who like to try something out of the ordinary. With the wines chosen by sommelier Tanabe-​san, I have never had a bad experience.
L’As is now located in the backstreets of Minami Aoyama. They moved from their previous location at the end of 2013. Adjoining L’As at the new location is Cork, a sleek wine bar that shares the same kitchen and the same reputation for excellent cost/​performance.