Tokyo, Japan
From Michelin Guide
The name of the restaurant means âhighest complimentâ or âapexâ. The pinnacle of cuisine, perched on the top floor of a soaring skyscraper, is the concept here. The precepts of apothĂ©ose are a trinity: respect for French culinary culture; a deep spirit of inquiry into Japanese ingredients; and devotion to knowing the present moment. Meat dishes occupy the middle course, complemented by rice dishes to enhance the impression. Willingness to experiment, unconstrained by convention, ensures customers understand the joys of food.
From Visitor Experiences
Trinity of Culinary Philosophy: ApothĂ©oseâs concept is based on a unique trinityârespect for French culinary culture, a deep inquiry into Japanese ingredients, and devotion to the present moment. This blend allows the restaurant to experiment freely beyond conventional boundaries, creating a distinctive culinary experience where meat dishes are central and complemented by rice to enhance the overall impression.
Architectural and Interior Design as a Meditative Experience: The restaurant is designed to be a peaceful oasis amid Tokyoâs urban frenzy, with the skyline as a centerpiece that offers diners a meditative experience. Materials like brass, timber floors, and wall paneling change subtly with the natural light throughout the day. Custom-made oak furniture and a stone waiter station that doubles as a showcase for glassware and sculptures add artisanal elegance and personality to the space.
Seamless Blend of Japanese Heritage and Parisian Sophistication: Designed by Danish studio Space Copenhagen, Apothéose combines an earthy, organic palette with refined materials such as darkened brass and terracotta tiles. The interior features bespoke sculptural elements, luxurious fabrics, and a vibrant open kitchen with breathtaking Tokyo skyline views, creating an intimate yet panoramic dining atmosphere that reflects both Japanese tradition and Parisian elegance.
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant apothéose in Tokyo reflect a unique fusion of French culinary techniques with deeply sourced Japanese ingredients, emphasizing aroma and seasonality. Key ingredients include:
Yamato Toki (wild plant of the Apiaceae family): Valued for its unique aroma similar to lovage, it is used as an oil for cooking and in herbal tea blends, embodying the restaurantâs philosophy of incorporating the natural aromas of Japanâs fields and mountains into French cuisine.
Kunugi trout roe from Shizuoka: Featured in the seasonal âMenu Prestige,â this ingredient highlights the fresh, local flavors of Japan and adds a luxurious touch to the dishes.
Foie gras: A classic French delicacy that is integrated into the menu, representing the respect for French culinary culture at the core of apothĂ©oseâs concept.
Truffles: Another French luxury ingredient used to complement the Japanese elements, enhancing the richness and aroma of the dishes.
Meat (various cuts): Central to the middle course, meat dishes are paired with rice to enhance the overall impression, showcasing the fusion of French technique and Japanese ingredients.
These ingredients are used thoughtfully to evoke the essence of both French gastronomy and Japanese natural environment, creating a dining experience that is both innovative and rooted in tradition. For example, the wild Yamato Toki oil brings a distinctive herbal aroma to French dishes, while seasonal ingredients like Kunugi trout roe celebrate Japanâs local produce.