Tabelog ratingTade no Ha (たでの葉) offers a focused, elemental dining experience centered on a traditional charcoal hearth, or irori. The entire restaurant consists of a single counter seating just twelve guests, all with a view of the chef’s precise work with the fire. The menu is a tribute to Japan’s seasons, showcasing wild game, mountain vegetables, and river fish at their peak.
Guests consistently praise the chef's mastery of the charcoal grill and the exceptional quality of the ingredients. Highlights from past menus include shabu-shabu of moon bear, tataki and tsukune of wild duck, and tender Ezo deer fillet. In summer, grilled wild river fish like ayu and yamame are a feature, alongside courses of seasonal mountain vegetables (sansai). The meal traditionally concludes with the chef’s own handmade soba noodles and a strawberry daifuku, making for a memorable finish.
Any criticisms tend to be practical rather than culinary. Securing a reservation is exceptionally difficult, as seats are limited and in high demand. The single-counter format means sitting close to the hearth, which can be hot. A few diners have also noted that some game meats are served quite rare, which may not be to everyone's preference.
As of mid-2023, the restaurant offers a single dinner omakase course priced at ¥30,000, with an 8% service charge. Reviewers also mention a Saturday lunch course for around ¥14,000. With drinks, the total dinner bill often falls in the ¥30,000 to ¥39,999 range. For those seeking a unique, top-tier meal featuring rare seasonal ingredients, Tade no Ha is considered excellent value.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 4-minute walk from Gaienmae Station or an 8-minute walk from Omotesando Station.
- Reservations: Reservations are mandatory and notoriously difficult to secure. A strict cancellation policy is in effect. As the menu is built around game and river fish, it cannot be altered to accommodate dietary restrictions related to these ingredients.
- Seating: Seating is limited to 12 seats at the counter. There are no private rooms.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Service Charge: An 8% service charge is added to the bill.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No private parking is available, but paid parking can be found nearby.
