Photographed by Dina Glore at World_Food_Dina
Tokyo is electric, bustling, energetic, a mass of pulsing crowds, traffic lights and pure concrete jungle. But it can also be supremely tranquil and zen. For ample doses of the latter, just head to the residential neighborhood of Meguro — there, a short walk from the Toritsu-Daigaku station, hidden and tucked away from the street on a small hill, accessible only by a stone staircase, you’ll find the restaurant Yakumo Saryo. It is, to use a phrase beloved by Tory’s mother Reva, simply divine.

Founded by Shinichiro Ogata of the design studio Simplicity, who’s responsible for the interiors at Andaz Tokyo hotel and the Aēsop shops, Yakumo Saryo is spectacular in an exquisitely minimal and refined way. Every detail is carefully considered. Natural light streams in through skylights and floor-to-ceiling glass walls; diners have a view of a courtyard garden with plum trees. Even the food keeps to that understated and pure vibe — see above photo — and features only local seasonal ingredients. Stop by Monday through Saturday for breakfast, lunch or tea. As for dinner? It is famously by invitation only.

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