AN ODE TO JAPANESE GASTRONOMY
On March 5th, Cheval Blanc Paris opened the doors to its latest gastronomic gem: Hakuba. This Japanese restaurant, the fourth addition to the hotel's prestigious culinary offerings, promises an immersive journey into Japanese culture and cuisine, under the enlightened direction of chef Arnaud Donckele.
Hakuba is more than just a restaurant: it's an artistic collaboration between chef Arnaud Donckele, Japanese chef Takuya Watanabe, and pastry chef Maxime Frédéric. Together, they have created a gastronomic experience that celebrates the tradition, precision, authenticity, and sincerity of Japanese cuisine through carefully crafted omakase menus. Omakase menus, a term that literally means "I leave it up to you," are an expression of Takuya Watanabe's expertise and passion for Japanese gastronomy. With the help of Arnaud Donckele and his team at Plénitude—the hotel's fine-dining restaurant—Takuya guarantees a culinary journey rich in flavors and textures, showcasing the highest quality ingredients.
“Emotion is a universal language,” declares Takuya Watanabe. “I knew immediately that this encounter with Arnaud would be like a creative spark, giving birth to the most beautiful Japanese culinary postcard, its contours beautifully colored.” In a joint statement, the chefs share their vision for Hakuba: “We want this restaurant to be a total immersion in Japanese art and craftsmanship. Takuya Watanabe embodies rigor and authenticity, while I strive to enhance the flavors to create a rhythmic experience,” affirms Maxime Frédéric. To complement Hakuba’s delicacies, Emmanuel Cadieu, Director of Sommelier Services at Cheval Blanc Paris, offers a refined selection of sakes and wines, providing perfectly balanced food and drink pairings. As for the desserts, pastry chef Maxime Frédéric presents an exquisite interpretation of Japanese and French pastries, creating an unforgettable culinary experience for guests.
Hakuba's décor, designed to reflect a contemporary vision of Japanese tradition, provides an elegant and soothing setting for dining. Dark woods of rare species evoke the Japanese forest, while fine glassware and handcrafted tableware showcase the ancestral craftsmanship of the Kyoto and Fukuoka region. Every element has been carefully selected to create an atmosphere that invites guests on a sensory journey to the heart of Japan.
Hakuba's story is written with passion and dedication, embodying an invitation to discover the refined, authentic flavors of Japan. Offering lunch and dinner menus, Hakuba promises an exceptional culinary experience with every visit. Take this opportunity to discover the soul of Japan through Hakuba's delicacies. A tasting experience that will transport you beyond borders, to a place where gastronomy becomes a universal language of pleasure and discovery.
Guests can also enjoy Japanese cultural and artistic activities, organized periodically to further enrich their stay at Hakuba. These events include tea ceremony demonstrations, calligraphy classes, and traditional music and dance performances, offering a complete immersion in Japanese culture.
HAKUBA
8, QUAI DU LOUVRE, PARIS 1ST
CHEVALBLANC.COM
