Introducing Sillage: A New French Bistro in Shirokanekawara by Chef Kazuki Munetaka

Sillage: A New Culinary Gem in Shirokanekawara

A Fresh Take on Modern Bistronomy

Nestled right next to Shirokanekawara Station in Tokyo, a new French restaurant named Sillage is poised to open its doors in the fall of 2025. The name, derived from French, signifies "the lingering scent" or "the aura left behind"—a concept that resonates deeply with the culinary philosophy of Chef Kazuki Munetaka. His vision is to create dining experiences where the flavors and joyful moments remain imprinted in the patrons' memories.

Chef Munetaka honed his culinary skills at renowned establishments both in Japan and abroad, including a Michelin-starred restaurant in Nîmes, France, called Jérôme Nutile. There, he trained under a M.O.F. (Meilleur Ouvrier de France) chef, further refining his craft. His subsequent experience at Tokyo's L'ARGENT, another one-star Michelin restaurant, enriched his knowledge of French cuisine while imbibing a profound respect for ingredients.

Elevating Japanese Seasonal Flavors

Sillage embodies the essence of modern bistronomy, aiming to combine the warmth of a bistro with the elegance of gastronomic dining. Originating from Paris in the 1990s, bistronomy merges the accessibility of bistro fare with high-quality culinary techniques. Sillage promises a welcoming environment where guests can indulge in authentic French dishes that are both delightful and enduring without feeling overly formal.

By integrating elements like seasonal ingredients, fermentation, and organic vegetables, Chef Munetaka ensures that every dish respects the vitality of Japanese produce. The philosophy behind this is simple yet profound—the encounters between ingredients create unique dishes that tell their stories through flavor, and not merely through presentation.

A Symphony of Flavors

Sillage will engage local ecosystems by sourcing ingredients from trusted growers. Chef Munetaka emphasizes the importance of fresh, pesticide-free vegetables from his hometown of Okayama, alongside edible flowers and high-quality meats such as squab and duck—often associated with gastronomic dining. Additionally, he proudly incorporates unique olive oils from Southern France, which, while rare in Japan, elevate the culinary experience.

Cooking is an art form where the interplay between flavors takes center stage. Chef Munetaka listens to the ingredients, allowing them to narrate their stories on a plate. Using traditional French cooking techniques as a foundation, he blends the natural rhythms and seasons of Japanese cuisine into his creations.

Wine Pairing and Natural Choices

The influence of Chef Munetaka extends beyond just food; the wine selection also plays a significant role in the dining experience. His time in Southern France introduced him to numerous exceptional natural wine producers, and the restaurant will feature a curated selection of natural wines that harmoniously complement the culinary offerings. The pairing of wines specifically chosen to match dishes will add an extra layer of enjoyment for diners.

Sillage aims to elevate every aspect of dining—crafting a menu that not only respects the traditions of French cuisine but also reinterprets them through a contemporary and Japanese lens. Each plate is designed to not only satisfy hunger but also to indulge the senses and provoke thought, leaving a lasting impression.

Access and Future Prospects

Sillage is located at 1-27-6 Shirokane, Minato Ward, Tokyo, within the Shirokanekawara Station Building. Reservations will be available, and the restaurant aims to provide an inviting backdrop for diverse dining experiences, from casual lunches to exquisite dinners.

For the press, Sillage is open to various forms of media engagement. The team is eager to share its narrative and culinary philosophy with a broader audience as it prepares for its grand opening. Inquiries can be directed via email to [email protected].

Diners and food enthusiasts alike can look forward to a delightful journey that intertwines French sophistication with Japanese sensibilities at Sillage. Don't miss the chance to be part of this exciting culinary venture!

Address:
1-27-6 Shirokane,
Minato Ward, Tokyo,
Japan
Contact: 03-5793-5022
Hours: Lunch: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM (Last Order 2:00 PM), Dinner: 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Last Order 8:00 PM)
Closed on: Wednesdays