Tabelog ratingHajime (ハジメ) is less a conventional restaurant and more a stage for a single, elaborate concept: 'Dialogue with the Earth'. Chef Hajime Yoneda presents a multi-hour tasting menu where each course is a meticulously crafted art object, exploring themes of nature, space, and existence. The experience is theatrical, intense, and designed as a complete performance from start to finish.
The undisputed star of the show is the Chikyu (Planet Earth) plate, a mosaic of over 100 different vegetables, herbs, and grains arranged to represent a world map. Guests consistently praise this dish for its beauty and complexity. Other highlights demonstrate perfect fire and temperature control, particularly with fish like ama-dai (tilefish) and mains such as Taoshita beef and Shichitani duck. The service is frequently described as flawless, with many staff speaking excellent English, and the beverage pairings—which include wine, sake, and non-alcoholic options—are considered expertly judged.
Diners should be aware that the meal is a significant time commitment, typically lasting between 3.5 and 5 hours. The price is also very high, and a few reviewers feel that some later courses lack the 'knockout' flavour of the earlier ones. Several visitors have also reported difficulties with third-party reservations and the restaurant's strict prepayment and refund policies, so booking directly and confirming all terms is advised.
Dinner typically costs between ¥80,000 and ¥100,000 per person. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported the standard tasting menu at around ¥83,000–¥89,000. Pairings and a 15% service charge are additional; one guest's total bill for the full experience was around ¥105,000, while another's with pairings reached nearly ¥140,000. For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime, artistic dining experience, most find it worth the splurge.
- Booking: Reservation is mandatory and must be made well in advance. Be aware of strict prepayment and cancellation policies, especially when booking through third parties.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 3-minute walk from Exit 7 of Higobashi Station on the Yotsubashi Line.
- Dress Code: A formal dress code is enforced. Men are required to wear jackets and leather shoes. Casual attire such as sneakers, shorts, and T-shirts is not permitted.
- Age Restriction: All guests must be 16 years of age or older.
- Payment: Accepts VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, and Diners cards. Electronic money and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Seating: The intimate dining room has 14 seats. Private rooms are not available, but the entire venue can be booked for private use.
- Service: English is spoken by many staff members. The meal is very long, so plan for at least 3.5 to 5 hours.
- Parking: One parking space is available in front of the restaurant.
