#Japan #Tokyo #SMUK #Tomohiro Nakano #hideya

Unveiling SMUK: Where Culinary Art Meets Tranquil Space

In the vibrant Toranomon district of Tokyo, a new culinary gem named SMUK has opened its doors. This restaurant is brought to life by the creative collaboration between renowned art director hideya and celebrated chef Tomohiro Nakano. SMUK is not just a place to eat; it’s designed to feel like an intimate home dining experience, radiating warmth and a hushed sense of peace.

A New Concept in Dining

At SMUK, the idea transcends a traditional restaurant. This space encompasses a sensation of calm, created by gently flickering flames and a serene atmosphere. The cuisine served here is not restricted by any single genre; instead, it harmonizes various culinary traditions and memories. Elements from Italian, French, Thai, Mexican, and Japanese cuisines converge, allowing flavors to unfold in unexpected ways.

The heart of SMUK’s culinary artistry lies in its use of charcoal. Under the expert guidance of Tomohiro Nakano, each dish is crafted with a keen sense of listening to the ingredients while emphasizing the subtle nuances of heat and aroma. Nakano, with his proficient background in both French and Japanese cooking techniques, crafts dishes that resonate with hideya’s envisioned narrative of the space.

A Space that Feels Like Home

Unlike the overly curated feel of many contemporary restaurants, SMUK presents a space that invites diners to connect. The design features Bordeaux and navy tones, decorated with vintage lamps and curated antiques from around the world, all arranged poetically without heavy symbolism.

At the center of the restaurant, an oil painting by hideya juxtaposed with red plaster work from craftsman Yukiharu Kusumi creates a dynamic visual focal point. This piece interacts with the light in the room, evolving over time, contributing to a feeling that the entire space is “breathing” in harmony with the diners.

An Ongoing Creation of Beauty

SMUK does not aim to orchestrate an extraordinary night out; instead, it focuses on consistently crafting beauty through the daily preparation of food and space. The collaboration between hideya and Nakano thrives on leaving room for each other’s sensibilities as they weave their shared experience of daily living. This nurturing of creativity and memory through the dining experience is what makes SMUK unique.

The name SMUK derives from the Danish word for “beauty,” exemplifying an essence that does not merely exist for display but celebrates the sanctity of existence itself. The symbol of a swallow signifies the happiness that can come from such beauty, subtly fluttering through life.

Culinary Delights Await

The menu at SMUK features an exquisite selection of wines curated by sommelier Motohiro Okoshi, allowing guests to savor the diverse offerings from around the globe. Highlights from the menu include:

• - Waffle potato caviar: ¥1,900 (tax included)
• - Assorted vegetable dishes (3 types): ¥1,500 / (5 types): ¥2,400 (tax included)
• - Wagyu L-bone steak: ¥14,000 (tax included)
• - Pineapple granita with coconut mousse: ¥1,000 (tax included)

Restaurant Information

• - Name: SMUK
• - Address: 3-8-2 Nishishinbashi, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
• - Phone Number: 03-6435-8851
• - Seating: 13 counter seats + 10 tables (total 23 seats)
• - Average Price per Person: ¥8,000 - ¥13,000
• - Business Hours: 17:00 - 23:00 (Last Order at 22:30)
• - Opening Date: August 1, 2025
• - Reservation URL
• - Instagram

With its serene environment and innovative culinary approach, SMUK invites you to experience beauty and creativity in every bite, promising a memorable dining experience that stays with you long after the meal ends.