Explore the Essence of Oita with 'Oita Terroir' at DRAWING HOUSE OF HIBIYA
This September 1, DRAWING HOUSE OF HIBIYA, an acclaimed French restaurant in Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, will launch a dinner course inspired by Oita Prefecture. The culinary experience, aptly named 'Oita Terroir,' is set to feature dishes that embody the region’s unique food culture and natural resources.
A Culinary Journey through Land and Sea
The Oita Terroir menu consists of two distinct courses, priced at ¥8,800 and ¥11,000. Each dish artfully showcases the flavors and aromas derived from Oita’s diverse landscapes—its mountains, ocean, hot springs, and volcanic soil—bringing diners a sensory journey like no other. The focus is not merely on the ingredients, but on the stories and traditions that shape the food culture of this remarkable region.
The Initial Course: A Symphony of Sea and Herbs
Kicking off the meal is a dish inspired by traditional Oita recipes, 'Ryukyu' and 'Atsumeshi.' It incorporates seasonal fish such as Kamasu and Seki Saba, marinated in a savory sauce. Layered with kabosu zest, warm paprika coulis, sesame emulsion, crunchy rice, and egg yolk marinated in dashi, this dish sets a refreshing tone for the culinary journey ahead.
Highlighting Local Treasures: Bottarga of Buri
Oita is renowned for its aquaculture, particularly for its buri (yellowtail) and hirame (flounder). One innovative highlight of the menu is 'Burittarga,' crafted from buri roe, which has often been overlooked. This dish draws inspiration from Italian bottarga, elegantly prepared to highlight the roe's natural umami while incorporating dashi and butter for a simple yet delicious presentation.
The Steamy Surprise: Hell Steamed Delights
The following dish evokes Oita's famous 'Jigoku-mushi,' translating to 'Hell Steam,' served in a papillon style. The surprise inside includes seasonal ingredients such as kabosu salmon, lotus root cakes, kabosu pepper butter, mushrooms, and ginkgo. When the package is opened at the table, the steam and aroma transport guests directly to Oita’s hot spring culture. This dish captures more than just flavor; it encapsulates the essence of the region’s renowned thermal springs.
Celebrating Oita's Bounty: Main Courses
As the meal progresses, patrons can choose between two main courses reflecting Oita’s agricultural richness.
8,800 Yen Course: Kaburachi Chicken
The highlight of the 8,800 yen course features the prized regional chicken, Kaburachi. Served as a pithivier and grilled to crispy perfection, this dish beautifully presents the chicken’s diversity through varying textures and preparations, alongside a smoky aroma from charcoal grilling.
11,000 Yen Course: Honoring Earth’s Bounty
The premium 11,000 yen course elevates the experience further by incorporating 'Yamanami Shiitake,' a brand of shiitake mushrooms from Oita, paired with 'Bungokome Wagyu' beef. Looking to embrace the flavors of Oita’s earth, this dish undergoes careful marination with hot spring water, salt, dried shiitake, and konbu, all cooked delicately to enhance the natural flavors, culminating in a dish that embodies Oita's land and heat.
A Refreshing Finale: Macaron Ice and Shine Muscat
Dessert wraps up the meal with a macaron ice made from Oita's hot spring water. This exquisite treat reflects the lightness of a post-bath moment, mirroring the dining experience's flow. It leads to the grand finale: fresh Shine Muscat from Ajimu, a sweet memory that concludes the culinary tour through sea, mountain, steam, and fire.
Event Details for 'Oita Terroir'
- - Location: DRAWING HOUSE OF HIBIYA
- - Theme: Oita Terroir
- - Duration: September 1, 2023 - November 30, 2023
- - Availability: Dinner only
- - Menu Options: Oita Terroir course - 7 dishes for ¥8,800, 8 dishes for ¥11,000 (excludes tax)
Please note that menu items may vary based on ingredient availability.
About DRAWING HOUSE OF HIBIYA
Located in the heart of Tokyo, DRAWING HOUSE OF HIBIYA celebrates the rich food culture and ingredients from across Japan. The restaurant’s philosophy focuses on more than just showcasing local products; it seeks to reinterpret them through the lens of modern culinary artistry, creating unique dishes that reflect the beauty of their origins. With its commitment to 'Japanese Terroir,' DRAWING HOUSE OF HIBIYA invites diners to experience the essence of each region while enjoying a creative dining experience.