AN "ILÔ" OF DISCOVERIES
We had discovered them at Sola (one Michelin star, 5th ) , and now the three friends, each with their specialties, have joined forces to the great pleasure of our taste buds.
There is no extravagance in the decor (exposed stones, dark wood tables) which could perhaps benefit from a little twist , but the intelligent and surprising blends of Japanese and French flavors excite us to the point of letting ourselves be guided on the sakes, a great specialty of the house and especially of the sommelier and president Yuki Onuma.
We watch the young Japanese chef Seiya Kumabe working in his small kitchen. The Chinese cabbage velouté with tapenade and button mushrooms impresses us with its perfect balance of flavors, a delightful clash between Japanese tastes and the creamy veloutés of our beloved French cuisine. The mackerel aburi (seared with a blowtorch), radish, and figs is subtle and very fresh.
And what about the caramelized pork with soy sauce and its warm lettuce arranged on the side, a comforting and incredibly successful dish…
The originality extends to dessert with a parmesan ice cream and another with sweet potato, kumquat and black sugar crumble… a nostalgic delight created by pastry chef Sumire Onuma.
If you happen to be on Rue Castex near the Saint-Paul district, don't hesitate to venture into this restaurant; your taste buds will thank you . The welcome is just like the food: full of originality and conviviality.
Restaurant Ilô
6, rue Castex, Paris 4th
Menus at €38 for lunch and €56 for dinner (food, wine and sake pairings at €36).
