J’apprends in Nishiazabu Launches New Culinary Experience from July 2026

Introduction to J'apprends

J’apprends, located in Nishiazabu, has made waves in the culinary scene since its opening in 2023 by introducing a unique concept called 'SF FRENCH'—a term that denotes a hint of whimsicality in traditional French cuisine. From July 2026, the restaurant will officially start a new chapter with an overhauled team led by Chef Shigeru Kisegawa, who aims to deepen the restaurant's philosophy through both innovative culinary approaches and personalized service.

Emphasizing the Story Behind Ingredients

At J’apprends, the focus transcends mere ingredients; it encompasses the entire narrative that they embody. Chef Kisegawa places a strong emphasis on understanding the stories behind his ingredients by visiting production areas, meeting the creators, and absorbing the local culture and environment. Each dish is conceived as a 'translation' of these experiences, presenting not just flavors but also the aromas, textures, temperatures, and colors, ultimately creating a memorable dining experience that satisfies not just hunger, but also the spirit.

Chef Shigeru Kisegawa's Journey

Shigeru Kisegawa started his culinary career in 2014 at a well-known restaurant in Hiroo before journeying to France in 2017 to deepen his understanding of French cuisine. After honing his craft at acclaimed establishments in Tokyo following his return in 2018, he took the helm as the chef at establishments such as 'Chêne' and 'Liaison Azabudai.' He brings a passion for utilizing the delicate yet rich flavors of Japanese ingredients, skillfully merging them with French techniques to unveil unique culinary expressions.

Seasonal Dishes at the New J’apprends

1. Corn Vacherin: A creative dish presenting the creaminess and sweetness of corn through various textures. The dish features a purée made solely from corn and water, topped with a vacherin crafted from soy milk and Okinawa's pipar, accompanied by seasonal herbs and hazelnut salad and Hokkaido sea urchin. The contrasting tastes, alternating between the purée and a simple corn broth, showcase the ingredient's diversity.

2. Ayuu Confit: The dish intends to recreate the essence of a clear stream, featuring young ayu gently confited at low temperatures, rendering it tender enough to eat the bones. Accompanied by a coulis of fresh coriander and a salad of melons and river nori, this dish captures the fragrance and clarity of the river that the fish inhabits.

3. Fried Hamo with Consommé: Here, the celebrated Japanese hamo fish, known for its unique flavor, is fried and presented with mushrooms and fresh herbs, while piping hot consommé is poured right at the table, creating an immersive experience for the guests.

4. Roasted Nanatani Duck: This dish highlights the tenderness of the duck, paired with fig leaves and a rich broth that includes port and fig essence, lightened with a salad of fermented trevisano and walnuts, ensuring a perfectly balanced dish.

5. Dessert of White Peach and Ice Cream: A plate that embodies the serene scenery of Yamanashi, showcasing marinated peaches with a hint of verbena, complemented by cookie crumble and jellied green tea, allowing diners to relish the fresh flavor of peaches.

Unique Pairings of Tea and Wine

Each dining experience at J’apprends is complemented with unique drink pairings that enhance the flavors of the food. Diners can enjoy specially selected Chinese teas served in custom-made teapots, and alcohol pairings that include Japanese wines, all reflecting the character of both the dishes and their producers.

Conclusion

J’apprends successfully combines culinary artistry with an extraordinary atmosphere designed by the acclaimed designer Kyoto Morita from GLAMOROUS Co., Ltd., recently honored with the silver prize at the 2024 MUSE Design Awards for its restaurant and bar category. As such, the facade of the restaurant echoes the imaginations and philosophies behind the 'SF FRENCH' concept, transforming the dining experience into an immersion of taste, aroma, and visual appeal. The menu offers a range of dining options, including a full-course dinner priced at ¥22,000 and a short course at ¥16,500, alongside exquisite lunch selections starting from ¥1,500.