A five-minute walk from Roppongi Station, Kasumitei Matsubara is located on the 3rd floor of a building in Nishi-Azabu, one block away from a busy intersection. Here, the restaurant acts as a hideaway enveloped in calm, where chef Hiroaki Matsubara demonstrates his skills.
Matsubara learned the fundamentals of Japanese cuisine by training at Kappo Minoichi in Ginza and Kanazawa's long-established restaurant Kinjiro. He joined Azabu Kyozen in 1999 and concurrently served as the manager and the chef. After 11 years of intense study, he became independent and opened Kasumitei Matsubara in 2010. The Kasumitei in the name of the restaurant is derived from Kasumi-cho, the former name of Nishiazabu.
While there are many creative variants of Japanese cuisine, Matsubara preserves traditional cooking methods while incorporating innovation into his dishes. For example, seafood is purchased from Toyosu Market -- if there is a change in the fishing schedule due to adverse weather, Matsubara will be informed immediately and plans accordingly. His dedication stems from his philosophy that “life entrusted by producers such as farmers and fishermen must be presented to guests in the best condition, with respect to producers".
The cuisine is prepared at the open kitchen as part of an immersive experience that allows guests to enjoy the food and aroma, but one that entices the other senses. The restaurant specialized in charcoal grilled seafood and meat, and are very particular about the materials of the cooking utensils. Meanwhile, the burning tools and steamer are made by Ippento Nakagawa, an artist based in Shigaraki Kumoi-yaki. "I am happy to see the smiles of the customers coming through the counter," smiles Matsubara.
The restaurant offers guests around 10 kinds of sake such as Tedorigawa from Ishikawa, Kokuryu from Fukui, and Nabeshima from Saga. Matsubara is also keen in his wine selections, recommending Kenzo Estate, and Chardonnay from Misawa Estate Vineyard in Yamanashi.
Stepping into the restaurant, guests are greeted by characters written by female calligrapher, Makiko Kan. There are 7 counter seats and a private room that can accommodate up to 2 to 8 people, which can be used in a variety of situations, from dining out with family, friends and colleagues, dating to business entertainment. Guests are invited to stop the clock for a few hours, and enjoy a quintessential Japanese experience at Kasumitei Matsubara.
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* The availability of this webpage does not guarantee that the restaurant presented provides services in English, unless otherwise stated. Please be aware that English services may also depend on staff availability at the restaurant.
Access
A 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Roppongi Station, Toei Oedo Line Roppongi Station Exit 2 (Turn right at the first street after the EX theater, and the left side building on the third floor.)
