HAJIME
Osaka, Japan
⭐3 Stars
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
An artwork resembling a planet dominates the dining room. Look closely and the ‘planet’ contains overlapping images of cuisine, which gather together to form a picture of the Earth. ‘Dialogue with the Earth’ is, indeed, the theme of this restaurant. The experience of growing up amid the beauty of nature shaped the bold world view of Hajime Yoneda. The digitised recipes and detailed cuisine attest to his experience as a system engineer. Cuisine that draws inspiration from all Creation is imbued with love and respect for nature.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
1. Signature Dish as a Conceptual Art Piece
Hajime’s signature dish, ‘Planet Earth’, is composed of 110 different vegetables, grains, and herbs arranged around shellfish foam to visually and conceptually represent land and sea—a rare example of a dish designed as a philosophical statement rather than just a meal.
2. Chef’s Unconventional Background
Chef Hajime Yoneda is a former design engineer who transitioned into haute cuisine, bringing a unique perspective that blends scientific precision with artistic imagination in every dish.
3. Tasting Menu Prepared a Day in Advance
The tasting menu at Hajime is prepared a day before guests arrive, requiring advance notice for any dietary restrictions—an unusual practice in fine dining that emphasizes meticulous preparation and personalization.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
Key Ingredients at HAJIME, Osaka
While specific signature ingredients are not detailed in the search results, some key elements and dishes are mentioned:
- Asparagus and Chickweed: Featured in a warm custard dish, where yuzu adds brightness to enhance the savory flavors.
- Beef, Pumpkin, Beet, Parsnip, Matcha, and Wasabi Leaves: These ingredients are part of a visually stunning dish called "mother earth," highlighting the use of seasonal and varied components.
- Freshwater Prawns, Truffles, and Wild Vegetables: Used in a dish that combines sea and land ingredients, emphasizing the connection between different ecosystems.
These ingredients reflect HAJIME's focus on seasonal and diverse elements in its dishes.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
HAJIME Restaurant Menu Summary
Tasting Menu
- TASTING MENU STANDARD (HAJIME's world view): ¥80,000 - 99,999
A La Carte
- Japanese sake: available
- Shochu: available
- Wine: available
- Cocktails: available
Vegetarian/Vegan Options
- Vegetable dishes: available
- Vegan menu: available
Features
- 14 seats
- Non-smoking throughout
- Parking available
- Wi-Fi available