Mitou

Here are three unique and unconventional aspects of the Michelin-starred restaurant Mitou in Seoul:

1. Direct Sourcing from Chef’s Family Farm
Mitou sources many key ingredients such as chicken, eggs, rice, and vegetables directly from Chef Kwon Young-woon’s family farm. This practice underscores their deep commitment to quality, seasonality, and freshness, which is rare for a Michelin-starred restaurant in a metropolitan area.

2. Fusion of Authentic Kaiseki with Korean Taste Adaptation
While Mitou serves traditional Japanese kaiseki multi-course meals, the chefs adapt the menu to suit Korean tastes and incorporate seasonal Korean ingredients. This blend of authentic Japanese culinary art with Korean influences creates a unique dining experience that respects both cultures.

3. The Restaurant’s Name and Philosophy: "Yet to Arrive"
The name "Mitou" means "yet to arrive" in Japanese, symbolizing the chefs’ ongoing quest for culinary perfection and continuous improvement. This philosophy of being eternal students of the culinary arts is reflected in their meticulous attention to detail and seasonal creativity in their dishes.

The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Mitou in Seoul are:

• Chicken: Sourced from Chef Kwon's family farm, it reflects the restaurant's dedication to quality and seasonality. It is used in various dishes showcasing freshness and farm-to-table authenticity.

• Eggs: Also from the family farm, eggs are a key ingredient that likely contribute to the texture and flavor of signature dishes, emphasizing purity and natural taste.

• Rice: Carefully selected from the family farm, rice is fundamental in Japanese cuisine and likely features prominently in Mitou's dishes, underscoring the importance of staple ingredients prepared with care.

• Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables sourced from the family farm highlight the restaurant's commitment to seasonality and freshness, integral to the authentic Japanese culinary experience offered.

• Savory Monaka: Though not a raw ingredient, Mitou's signature dish is a savory monaka (a Japanese confection), which likely incorporates some of these key ingredients in a refined presentation.

These ingredients collectively embody Mitou's philosophy of earnestness, modesty, and dedication to culinary art, with a strong emphasis on seasonality and sourcing from the chef's own farm to ensure freshness and authenticity.