Food without memory is just digestion

Wednesday, 12 March 2008

Longing for More - De' Longhi

Imagine, Gentle Reader, my sense of foreboding and dank depression when I invited Sir James out recently for a meal. James, one word from whom has been known to stop seasoned chefs in their tracks. James, whose predilection for French wines is both a notorious and expensive habit to support. James, whose palpable intelligence and predilection for cigars and cognac is legendary.

We journeyed to De'Longhi in Daikanyama, where I had previously been deeply impressed by Chef's care and light touch at a dinner with The Ad Guy.

When I was a young thing growing up, "da longie" was the stick we used to get the tennis ball out of the creek. But it seems to have morphed into a very attractive and laid-back cathedral to Italian lifestyle solutions offered by this innovative firm. Well done, brave De' Longhi!

The food at De'Longhi is exquisite and despite the diverse tastes and background of the group I had assembled at table (English, New York, upstate Washington, Germany, and Australia), we were all delighted with the food and most of the wine. James is not fond of Italian whites, but I sincerely believe that De' Longhi's list is well-balanced and worth exploring.

De'Longhi also offers jazz and other events that absolutely require a booking. It's wonderful to see this place offer a new view on lifestyle, and I'm a confirmed fan. If enough of you go there with lovers or friends, then it will remain a highlight of this Tokyo life.

Rating: Food: 8/10; Wine: 7/10; Ambiance: 8/10; Service: 8/10; Price ($$): 7/10. Total: 38/50

DeLonghi Tokyo: 24-7 Saruraku-Cho, Shibuya (Daikanyama is the closest station). Tel: 5428-4631

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