Tabelog ratingCaillou (caillou) offers a unique, improvisational take on French dining. Instead of a fixed menu, guests are invited to the counter where the chef presents the day's fresh ingredients. From this vibrant display, you collaborate to build your own multi-course meal, creating a truly personal experience. The restaurant's centrepiece, praised in nearly every review, is the aged beef from the famed Sakaeya butcher, a showstopper cooked with precision.
Diners consistently applaud the kitchen's mastery of French classics. Dishes like pâté en croûte, foie gras crème-brûlée, and sweet corn velouté are frequently mentioned for their flawless execution. Depending on the season, you might find Mont-Saint-Michel mussels or a summer paella with ayu fish. Portions are considered generous, and the thoughtful wine pairings elevate the meal further.
While the food receives near-universal praise, a minority of guests have reported issues with service, describing a sommelier who could be brusque or condescending. Others note that the dining room is compact with tight table spacing, and that smoke and odours from the grill can sometimes reach the tables.
A typical dinner costs between ¥15,000 and ¥19,999. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥7,898 for the Sakaeya aged beef main, ¥1,073 for the pâté-en-croûte, and a mandatory ¥825 for the amuse-bouche. A full dinner with wine generally totals ¥16,000–¥18,000 per person. Most find it excellent value for the quality and creativity of the cooking, though the experience can be affected by service.
- Getting There: Caillou is a one-minute walk from Nishikoyama Station on the Tokyu Meguro Line.
- Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant is popular and often fully booked.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) and some QR code payments (PayPay, au PAY) are accepted. Electronic money is not accepted.
- Seating: The restaurant has 20 seats, including completely private rooms for two or four guests. The main dining area is compact.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Dress Code & Perfume: There is no strict dress code, but guests are asked to refrain from wearing strong perfume.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid coin-operated parking lots nearby.
