yutak829
Visiting Western cuisine in Ginza, next to Mitsukoshi
Adjacent to Ginza Mitsukoshi, hidden in an alley between the old and new buildings, a charming retro Western-style building appears on the right side. Covered by the Mitsukoshi building, the restaurant has a unique charm with its retro Western-style façade. Although it is integrated with the Mitsukoshi new building, the entrance is a separate standalone building. It is said to be a historic establishment dating back to the dawn of Western cuisine in Japan, with roots from the Taisho era when Western culture began to spread in Tokyo.
One of the oldest establishments in the history of Western cuisine in Japan, Ginza Renkatei, founded in 1895, is considered a pioneer of various Western dishes. Other renowned establishments include Ginza Swiss in 1947, Mikawaya in 1948, and Tsuizumi in 1950. Mikawaya's predecessor dates back to 1887 when it was known as Mikawaya Shokuryohin-ten, a grocery store. After the war, the second generation took over the grocery store and opened a restaurant in 1948. Mikawaya started with the guidance of the first head chef from Yokohama New Grand Hotel, who passed on the traditional Western cuisine to Japan, laying the foundation for French and Western cuisine in the country.
The third generation continued the legacy, and in 2011, the restaurant underwent a major renovation following an offer from the adjacent Mitsukoshi. The menu remains largely unchanged, featuring signature dishes like gratin and croquettes. The current fourth generation continues to run the restaurant, preserving the historical charm of the Western-style building. The interior is solemn, adorned with historical artifacts such as paintings and books.
The crab croquette, a small coin-shaped croquette with fine breadcrumbs, is a must-try dish. The French croquette is simple yet luxurious, with a crispy exterior revealing generous crab meat in a creamy bechamel sauce. The tartar sauce enhances the flavors, complementing the freshness of the onions and pickles. The Worcestershire sauce adds a sharp accent, enriching the experience of savoring the crab.
Another traditional dish is the shrimp gratin, served in a hot skillet with a side of cold salad dressed with vinegar. The gratin is rich and satisfying, with a layer of cheese on top adding depth to the creamy bechamel and shrimp. The presence of rice beneath, thinly spread like a coating, adds an interesting twist to the traditional gratin.
Mikawaya offers a unique dining experience, combining a sense of tradition with meticulous culinary techniques. It is a cultural establishment where you can enjoy a luxurious Western meal in the heart of Ginza, making it a perfect stop after a day of shopping in the area. As the landscape of Ginza continues to evolve, Mikawaya remains a steadfast symbol of timeless Western cuisine.