Oden Heichan: A Modern Oden Tasting Menu

Oden Heichan (平ちゃん) reimagines the humble Japanese stew, oden, as a sophisticated, multi-course tasting menu. The chef, who trained in French cuisine and has ties to the acclaimed La Paix, builds each course around a remarkably clear and deeply flavourful dashi broth. The experience is often likened to theatre, especially from the eight-seat counter overlooking the open kitchen.

Guests consistently praise the creativity and precision of the dishes. The signature 'oden spring roll'—a crispy roll that releases a burst of concentrated dashi when eaten—is a highlight, as is the two-stage earthen-pot rice, served first plain and then with more of the house dashi. Desserts, particularly a blancmange made with tattara soba tea, and the well-chosen sake and wine pairings also receive frequent acclaim.

While most reviews are glowing, some guests find the lunch courses expensive for what is offered. A few also note that while the staff are warm and attentive, English explanations can be limited. The entrance, a nondescript door leading to a basement, is notoriously easy to miss. A handful of dishes are sometimes described as merely good rather than exceptional, and there are very rare but sharp complaints about service.

Typical dinner spend is between ¥15,000 and ¥19,999, with some reviewers paying up to ¥25,000. A dinner omakase course was recently reported at ¥15,400. Lunch is generally ¥8,000 to ¥9,999; one reviewer paid ¥7,865 for a lunch course. For a special occasion celebrating creative Japanese cooking, it offers good value, but it is not a budget-friendly choice.

• Getting There: Oden Heichan is a 3-minute walk from Mitsukoshimae Station (Exit A1). It is in the basement (B1F) of the J1 Building and can be difficult to find.
• Reservations: Reservations are strongly recommended as the restaurant fills up.
• Seating: There is an 8-seat counter and semi-private rooms for 2 to 8 people.
• Age Restriction: Only junior high school students and older are permitted.
• Dress Code: Smart casual attire is requested. Please refrain from wearing shorts or sandals.
• Payment: Major credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
• Language: Staff are friendly, but English is limited.
• Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.