Tabelog ratingma-beau (マーボー) is a small, stylish bistro in Nagoya's Shinsakae neighbourhood, run by a chef with sommelier training. This dual expertise shows in a menu that is both creative and distinctly wine-friendly. The experience is built around two recurring signature motifs: a crunchy, refined spring roll and a richly filled seasonal pithivier (a type of puff pastry pie).
Guests consistently praise these two dishes. The 'specialité' spring roll, filled with pork head, shellfish, and a sweet-and-sour tomato sauce, is considered a must-order (reviewers cited a price of ¥1,650). The pithivier changes with the seasons, with versions featuring whitebait earning high marks (a whitebait version was noted at ¥3,520). Other frequently lauded dishes include a concentrated bouillabaisse, game roasts like venison (noted at ¥3,520–¥4,400), and cold corn and seafood soups. Diners appreciate the generous portions and thoughtful plating.
The base set courses offer excellent value, with reviewers in 2024–2026 often reporting bills around ¥7,700 to ¥8,800. However, the final cost can rise significantly with drinks; one guest reported a bill of around ¥16,000 for a course with a wine pairing. A few diners note that when the small kitchen is busy, service can slow down. The counter seats can also get warm, and cooking odours may cling to clothes.
Despite these minor points, most consider ma-beau to be a fantastic value for the quality and creativity of the cooking. It's a place for those who appreciate bold, seasonal flavours and a thoughtfully curated wine experience.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from Exit 5 of Chikusa Station.
- Reservations: Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends, as the restaurant is small.
- Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Seating: There are 18 seats, including counter seating.
- Private Dining: Private rooms are not available, but the entire venue can be booked for parties of up to 20 people.
- Smoking: The restaurant is non-smoking. An ashtray is provided at the entrance for outdoor use.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid parking lots nearby.
- Service: A service charge is added to the bill. A sommelier is on staff, and bringing your own wine is permitted for a corkage fee (from ¥3,300 per bottle).
