Melograno: Modern Italian with Japanese Ingredients

At Melograno (メログラーノ), chef Yuji Goto presents an ingredient-forward vision of Italian cuisine, deeply rooted in Japan’s seasonal bounty. The restaurant’s heart is its open kitchen, where guests seated at the counter can watch the team’s precise execution. The cooking is modern and refined, showcasing high-quality Japanese seafood, produce, and heritage meats in creative Italian preparations.

Diners consistently praise a few standout dishes that have become signatures of the house. Nearly every review mentions the truffle 'tarte Tatin', a savoury and aromatic creation that sets the tone for the meal. The house-made pastas, such as trofie or tagliolini often served with rich uni and shellfish, are another highlight. For main courses, guests celebrate both the delicate seafood preparations and the serious dry-aged beef from renowned purveyor Sakae-ya. Desserts like cannoli and tiramisu provide a classic finish.

Criticism is infrequent and minor. A few guests have found the portions to be on the lighter side for the price, and some note the lack of an English menu, though staff are generally helpful in explaining the dishes. Overall, reviewers consider Melograno excellent value for the quality, viewing it as a special-occasion destination where the craftsmanship and ingredients justify the expense.

Lunch courses were recently priced at ¥7,500 and ¥13,000, while dinner typically costs ¥20,000–¥29,999 per person. A la carte items included a 140g aged sirloin steak for ¥11,200, pastas from ¥3,800–¥4,800, and a house cocktail for ¥1,600.

• Booking: Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance, as weekends in particular fill up quickly. A 100% cancellation fee applies to no-shows and same-day cancellations.
• Getting There: The restaurant is a 4-minute walk from Exit 1 or 2 of Hiroo Station on the Hibiya Line.
• Seating: There are 30 seats, including a 10-seat counter, tables, and private rooms for 4 to 8 guests.
• Age Restrictions: For dinner, weekday service is for guests of middle school age and older; please consult the restaurant for Saturdays and holidays. Lunch service welcomes children of all ages.
• Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
• Service: A 10% service charge is added to the bill during dinner.
• Language: There is no English menu, but staff can assist with explaining the dishes.
• Parking: The restaurant does not have its own parking, but paid parking lots are available nearby.
• Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.