Rebirth Of The Cool

TWO CLASSIC RESTAURANTS ARE REVIVED IN THE OKURA TOKYO, A HISTORIC HOTEL LOVED BY DIGNITARIES, CELEBRITIES, AND DESIGNERS WORLDWIDE

Howls of protests resounded globally in 2015 when news broke that the Hotel Okura Tokyo would be demolished. The outcry turned into many sighs of relief when it reopened in 2019.

Originally opened in 1962, much of that building including its famous lobby was faithfully and painstakingly recreated for the newly renamed The Okura Tokyo. Two of its food favorites also returned: traditional Japanese restaurant Yamazato and teppanyaki specialist Sazanka.

Yamazato’s minimalist cherry tree tables are back and there are also counter seats for sushi and tempura. The signature dish is the tai no aradaki (simmered sea bream), which is prepared to diners’ preferences. Yamazato even offers hands-on lessons in Japanese table manners that guests can book. Banish your chopstick faux pas forever in a setting akin to gentle cultural immersion—all while enjoying a kaiseki (traditional multi-course) lunch.

Where Yamazato excels in elegant execution and pared-back refinement, Sazanka revels in grand gestures and sizzling entertainment. The teppanyaki chefs’ dexterous flair and stunning city views are both on full display in Sazanka’s 41st-level, top-floor dining space. The prized dish is the wagyu beef rib served with a variety of sauces. In the 1960s, teppanyaki was a new trend that gained great popularity, particularly among foreigners.

The original Sazanka was one of the world’s first luxury hotel teppanyaki restaurants. Imagine the conversations over the years in these two storied venues. The Okura Tokyo’s modernist design draws constant attention, but its personalities—architects, craftspeople, staff, chefs, and guests also continue to build the hotel’s legacy. Their stories evolve in this new incarnation of one of Tokyo’s most beloved icons.

Address: 2-10-4 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Website: theokuratokyo.jp/en