Tabelog ratingGinza Ooishi (銀座 大石) offers a unique take on French cuisine: a theatrical, counter-style omakase led by the high-energy Chef Oishi. The entire experience unfolds around a 12-seat L-shaped counter, where guests watch as each course is prepared and finished live. The performance is as much a part of the meal as the food, creating a lively, interactive atmosphere that has made the restaurant a destination in Ginza.
Reviewers consistently praise the use of extravagant, top-tier Japanese ingredients. Signature dishes that appear frequently include a luxurious starter of raw sea urchin (uni) layered over a rich consommé jelly and topped with caviar. Other celebrated plates feature rock oysters, abalone, lobster, and a perfectly executed wagyu beef Wellington. Portions are noted as being generous, and guests can even request small, medium, or large sizes for each course. Desserts like the mango shortcake and a creative foie-gras monaka also receive high marks.
While overwhelmingly positive, some guests note practical points to consider. The meal is a long affair, often lasting over three hours, and the room is lively and intimate, which may not suit those seeking a quiet dinner. A small number of diners found an occasional dish, such as a risotto, to be slightly uneven, but there are no widespread complaints about quality or service.
Expect to pay for the experience. The omakase menu was recently reported by reviewers at ¥31,900, with special seasonal menus reaching near ¥50,000. With drinks, final bills can be significantly higher; one party of two paid ¥98,500 with wine, while another diner reported a total of around ¥51,000 per person with a pairing. Add-ons like an abalone pie were cited at about ¥7,800. Despite the high cost, most find it excellent value for the quality of ingredients, generous portions, and unforgettable showmanship.
- Getting There: A 3 to 5-minute walk from Ginza Ichome Station.
- Seating: 12 seats at a counter only.
- Reservations: Reservations are mandatory and should be made well in advance.
- Payment: Visa, Master, JCB, AMEX, and Diners cards are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Service: Staff are often able to explain dishes in English.
- Pacing: Plan for a long meal, typically 3 hours or more.
- Portions: You can ask the chef for smaller portions at the start of the meal.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking available.
