Zurriola: Chef Honda’s Spanish-Inspired Lunch
Welcome back to The Gourmet Elephant’s week-long series exploring Japan’s diverse dining scene. Today, we invite you to join us on a culinary adventure at Zurriola, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Ginza, Tokyo, where Chef Honda seamlessly blends Spanish influences with his own unique flair. Nestled atop the Barneys New York store in the heart of Ginza, Zurriola offers a captivating dining experience that transcends traditional culinary boundaries. Chef Honda, who studied Spanish cuisine in Spain, brings his expertise and passion to the table, creating dishes that pay homage to Spanish flavors while infusing them with his own distinctive style.
Lunch With Zurriola: A Ginza Gem
Opting for the standard lunch menu, priced at approximately $120 USD per person, our slightly delayed arrival was greeted by a staff member who promptly assisted us with our belongings and escorted us to the counter where our meal was about to begin. Already seated and with wine in hand, Chef Honda introduced himself and briefly explained the essence of the tasting menu, setting a start to what it would be a great lunch.
The best way to describe our 7 courses tasting menu would be to simple state: unique, flavorful, and yet simple. While Chef Honda delighted us with more complex plates full of incredible texture and taste such as the Suckling Piglet Confit with Black Garlic Puree and the Roasted Duck with Pineapple Chutney, other courses like the 3 kinds of Tapas and the Yoghurt and “Tahiti” Vanilla Mousse Cherry Jam were a reminder of the simplicity yet delicious offering.
Even when, to our point of view, the piglet and duck courses were the stars of the show, showcasing Chef Honda’s mastery of cooking techniques and his ability to let the ingredients shine; we were left curious about the dinner experience and the potential for mind-blowing dishes.
A Delightful Conversation with Chef Honda
The true highlight of our visit to Zurriola was the engaging conversation we had with Chef Honda himself. Fluent in Spanish, he warmly approached us after the first few courses, and we found ourselves immersed in a delightful discussion that spanned multiple topics, from Japanese cuisine and restaurant reviews to our experiences in Japan and his journey into Spanish cuisine.
What struck us most was Chef Honda’s genuine and passionate nature. He shared a profound insight that resonated with us: “This is not Spanish food, it is Spanish, Japanese, and more importantly, it is me.” This statement encapsulates the essence of Zurriola restaurant that goes beyond labels, offering a unique culinary expression that is deeply personal to Chef Honda.
How to Book at Zurriola
Securing a reservation at Zurriola is relatively straightforward compared to some other high-end restaurants in Tokyo. The easiest way to book is through Omakase Japan Eatery website: Zurriola Reservation Page
We recommend making your reservation at least a couple of weeks in advance, to ensure that your desired date and time is available. However, reservations are extremely easy to find, even on the same day.
Our Verdict: Zurriola - A Must-Visit for Spanish-Inspired Cuisine in Tokyo
Zurriola offers a refreshing and delightful dining experience that showcases Chef Honda’s unique vision. However, what truly sets Zurriola apart is the warm and engaging presence of Chef Honda himself. His passion, knowledge, and genuine nature elevate the dining experience, making it a memorable and personal one.
While we thoroughly enjoyed our lunch at Zurriola, we are eager to return for the dinner service to explore the full range of Chef Honda’s culinary creativity. The attentive service and accommodating staff also contribute to the restaurant’s well-deserved two-Michelin-star rating.
If you’re seeking a Spanish-inspired culinary adventure in the heart of Ginza, we highly recommend adding Zurriola to your Tokyo dining itinerary. Embrace the opportunity to engage with Chef Honda and savor his unique culinary vision.
Zurriola Details
Address: 7F, 6-8-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Nearest Station: Ginza Station
Lunch Price: Approximately $120 USD per person, but there are other options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zurriola
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Is Zurriola English-friendly?
Yes, the staff at Zurriola is fluent in English, and Chef Honda himself is fluent in Spanish, making communication a breeze for international guests. -
How long does the lunch experience last at Zurriola? Around 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Can dietary restrictions be accommodated at Zurriola? Absolutely! Chef Honda and his team are attentive to dietary restrictions and allergies. They made appropriate substitutions for us without compromising the quality or flavor of the dishes. We recommend mentioning any restrictions when making your reservation to ensure a smooth dining experience.
