#Japan #French Cuisine #Minato #Minato Ward #Restaurant La FinS

French Cuisine in Minato Ward Schools

On July 14, 2025, Minato Ward made a remarkable move by introducing French cuisine into the lunch menus of all its public elementary and middle schools. This initiative marks a celebration of the friendship between Minato Ward and the 15th arrondissement of Paris, France, in honor of France's National Day.

The menus were devised by Chef Keizo Sugimoto, the owner of the renowned French restaurant "Restaurant La FinS" located in Shimbashi, Minato. During this special occasion at Onarimon Middle School, prominent figures like Ward Mayor Ai Seike and Education Superintendent Mikio Urata joined the students in tasting the delicious offerings, enriching the bond between culture and education.

A Culinary Adventure for Students

Students had the chance to taste classic French dishes such as:

• - Hachis Parmentier (a hearty casserole with minced meat and creamy mashed potatoes)
• - Croque Monsieur (a classic French ham and cheese sandwich)
• - Rice Salad
• - Niçoise Potato Salad
• - Pudding
• - Fruit Tea Cocktail

This culinary experience opened the world of French culture to children, most of whom expressed their joy and excitement. As one student remarked, "It was my first time tasting such dishes, and they were absolutely delicious!" Another student added, "I enjoyed getting a taste of French culture, and I’d love to have more lunches like this in the future!"

A Step Towards International Exchange

The initiative on July 14 was not just a one-off event, as some schools participated on July 15, extending the joy of culinary exploration to even more students. This effort is part of Minato Ward's ongoing commitment to foster international relations with the 15th arrondissement of Paris, aimed at enhancing educational and cultural exchanges across various fields.

The district emphasizes the importance of providing opportunities for children to connect with the world, promoting multicultural coexistence and furthering global awareness. This initiative serves as a testament to Minato Ward's identity as an international city dedicated to nurturing its young generation.

Minato Ward plans to continue its collaborative cultural endeavors with Paris, enriching students' experiences and planting the seeds for a more connected, diverse society. As these young learners delve into global cultures and cuisines, they become more adept at understanding and appreciating the rich tapestry of our world.

In conclusion, the introduction of French cuisine in Minato Ward's schools represents a significant step towards fostering an atmosphere of global collaboration and cultural appreciation, setting the stage for future initiatives that will help children grow into informed, culturally aware citizens of the world.