ESqUISSE is a contemporary French restaurant. The food blends classic French technique with seasonal Japanese ingredients, resulting in elegant and minimalist dishes. The whole vibe was calm and classy — very classic “Tokyo French Fine Dining”.
Courses: A 9 course dinner consisting of glass of champagne and ~12 dishes. The dishes were beautifully presented in a minimalist style, with subtle, well-balanced flavors.
Most of the dishes were delicate and well-balanced, showcasing technique rather than bold or rich flavors. Everything tasted good and was enjoyable, but nothing really stood out or stuck with me; the dishes felt a bit safe, with no surprising tastes. There were no bad dishes — just nothing especially memorable. (Though to be fair, this meal was about seven months ago, so that might play a part too.)
Cost to Performance: ESqUISSE is definitely on the expensive side of Tokyo. Compared to other 2-star restaurants in Japan, it felt a bit pricey given how subtle the food was. You’re paying more for precision and “careful” cooking than excitement or bold flavors. For the very high cost, I’d say the experience was average — mainly because no particular dish really stuck with me after the meal. Given the price, I was hoping for more surprising flavors or creative combinations that would leave a stronger impression.
Personal Rating: 8/10. A refined and elegant dining experience — great if you enjoy seasonal ingredients, subtle flavors, and a calm, quiet setting. That said, it might not leave a strong impression if you’re after something bold or exciting. Note: This rating was for the special New Year course, which came at a higher price — so expectations were also higher.
2 Comments
Price: $370 USD (New Year Course), Dinner, Jan’25
Location: Ginza, Tokyo
Seating: Table seats
ESqUISSE is a contemporary French restaurant. The food blends classic French technique with seasonal Japanese ingredients, resulting in elegant and minimalist dishes. The whole vibe was calm and classy — very classic “Tokyo French Fine Dining”.
Courses: A 9 course dinner consisting of glass of champagne and ~12 dishes. The dishes were beautifully presented in a minimalist style, with subtle, well-balanced flavors.
Most of the dishes were delicate and well-balanced, showcasing technique rather than bold or rich flavors. Everything tasted good and was enjoyable, but nothing really stood out or stuck with me; the dishes felt a bit safe, with no surprising tastes. There were no bad dishes — just nothing especially memorable. (Though to be fair, this meal was about seven months ago, so that might play a part too.)
Cost to Performance: ESqUISSE is definitely on the expensive side of Tokyo. Compared to other 2-star restaurants in Japan, it felt a bit pricey given how subtle the food was. You’re paying more for precision and “careful” cooking than excitement or bold flavors. For the very high cost, I’d say the experience was average — mainly because no particular dish really stuck with me after the meal. Given the price, I was hoping for more surprising flavors or creative combinations that would leave a stronger impression.
Personal Rating: 8/10. A refined and elegant dining experience — great if you enjoy seasonal ingredients, subtle flavors, and a calm, quiet setting. That said, it might not leave a strong impression if you’re after something bold or exciting. Note: This rating was for the special New Year course, which came at a higher price — so expectations were also higher.
Somebody really paid $400 for this?