top of page

ESqUISSE

RESTAURANT SUMMARY

epclublogoblackgold.png

Where French culinary artistry meets Japanese seasonal poetry, ESqUISSE Tokyo transforms fine dining into an intimate sketch of nature's rhythms. Perched on the ninth floor of Ginza's Royal Crystal building, this two-Michelin-starred sanctuary redefines contemporary French cuisine through Chef Lionel Beccat's profound understanding of both cultures.

Since opening in 2012, ESqUISSE—meaning "sketch" in French—has embodied Chef Beccat's philosophy of unbounded culinary expression. The Corsican-born chef, who honed his craft at Maison Troisgros and later led Cuisine[s] Michel Troisgros Tokyo to two Michelin stars, channels his multicultural journey into every plate. His accolades include the prestigious Shizuo Tsuji Food Culture Award and recognition as Gault et Millau's Best Chef, cementing his position among Tokyo's culinary elite. Alongside pastry virtuoso Kazutoshi Narita, named Asia's Best Pastry Chef, the kitchen creates daily-evolving masterpieces that honor both French technique and Japanese terroir.

The cuisine follows Japan's traditional 24 seasonal divisions, with menu items poetically named after celestial movements. Beccat's "menu spontané" changes daily, featuring signature creations like Turnip with Black Truffle and Duck Magret, alongside Narita's innovative desserts such as Rice Pudding with Olive Ice Cream. Each dish represents a meditation on the intersection between humanity and nature, sourced from Japan's finest producers yet executed with classical French precision. The tasting menu structure ensures every meal becomes a unique gastronomic narrative.

The dining experience unfolds within Shinichiro Ogata's serene interior, featuring a striking plaster wall by artisan Naoki Kusumi that evokes earth's natural textures. The 42-seat space transitions from bright daytime elegance to intimate evening tranquility, with private rooms accommodating special occasions. Sommelier Eiji Wakabayashi, winner of Michelin Guide Tokyo's 2025 Sommelier Award, orchestrates wine pairings that bridge French tradition with Japanese selections, including rare bottles from Kusaka Vineyards. Service balances Japanese hospitality with French conviviality, led by the charismatic Maître d' Lionel Lavernhe.

ESqUISSE Tokyo represents more than fine dining—it's a cultural dialogue expressed through cuisine. Reservations require advance planning for this exclusive experience where art, nature, and gastronomy converge. Whether celebrating a milestone or seeking Tokyo's most poetic tasting menu, ESqUISSE offers an unforgettable journey through Chef Beccat's seasonal sketches.

CHEF

Lionel Beccat

ACCOLADES

(2025) Michelin 2 Stars

(2024) Michelin 2 Stars

(2025) La Liste Score: 93pts

(2025) World's 50 Best Asia's Best Restaurants #67

(2025) Tabelog Chef's Gold

(2025) Tabelog Silver

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Top Restaurants in Japan Ranked #129

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Top Restaurants in Japan Ranked #121

CONTACT

Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 5-chōme−4−6 ロイヤルクリスタル銀座 9F

+81 3-5537-5580

FEATURED GUIDES

NEARBY RESTAURANTS

bottom of page