Tabelog ratingJfree is an intimate counter restaurant in Kagurazaka where chef Junichi Ikemoto applies modern French techniques to seasonal Japanese ingredients. The experience is built around a single tasting menu and direct interaction with the chef, with a focus on precise control over temperature and fire that guests consistently praise.
Two dishes have become signatures: an intensely savory chicken bone broth made from Miyazaki 'tsuma' chicken, and a recurring savory crêpe (crêpe salé). Other standout dishes frequently mentioned by reviewers include a sweet corn soup, North Sea uni with somen noodles, black abalone with a rich liver sauce, and ayu sweetfish prepared as a spring roll. The wine and sake pairings, selected by the in-house sommelier, also receive high marks for complementing the food.
While the vast majority of reviews are glowing, a small number of guests have reported brusque service. Some also note that premium wine selections can significantly increase the final bill.
Reviewers in 2024–2025 typically paid between ¥19,800 and ¥23,100 for the tasting menu. Wine and sake pairings were reported from ¥9,000 to ¥12,800, with some final bills reaching the mid-¥30,000s per person. For the quality of the cooking and ingredients, most find it offers good value for a special-occasion meal, though costs can climb with drink choices.
- Booking: Reservations are essential and must be made well in advance, typically via the TableCheck website. Service begins for all guests at once at 6:30 PM, so punctuality is important.
- Access: The restaurant is a 2-minute walk from Iidabashi Station (Tokyo Metro, Exit B3) or a 3-minute walk from Iidabashi Station (JR Sobu Line, West Exit). It is on the 2nd floor of the AY Two Building.
- Seating: Seating is at an intimate counter for 6-7 guests, with one private room for up to 5 people available for a separate fee of ¥5,500.
- Menu: A single tasting menu (omakase) is served. An English menu is available.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners, UnionPay) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not. A 10% service charge is added to the bill.
- Age Restriction: Children aged 10 and over are welcome, provided they eat the full adult course.
- Dress Code: Smart casual is requested. T-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, and sandals are not permitted. Guests are also asked to refrain from wearing strong fragrances.
- Facilities: The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Parking is not available. Wi-Fi is available.
