Tabelog ratingESqUISSE (エスキス) offers a highly polished, modern French dining experience in Ginza. Chef Lionel Beccat composes seasonal tasting menus that feel like a narrative, marrying refined French techniques with prime Japanese ingredients. Each dish is presented as a small work of art, with a focus on precise cooking and temperature control.
Guests consistently praise the technical skill on display, particularly in preparations of fish like kinmedai and ama-dai, as well as courses featuring lamb, Ise-ebi (spiny lobster), and scallops. An early-course squid amuse-bouche is also frequently mentioned. For many, a highlight is the ambitious wine program; the sommelier's pairings, often featuring focused selections from Champagne and Burgundy, are considered a core part of the experience. The service is typically attentive and multilingual.
A minority of diners have found some courses less impactful than others or felt the very high price of dinner wasn't always justified compared to the lunch menu. Occasional service slips and a plain urban view from the windows have also been noted. Importantly, one guest filed a serious report of discriminatory remarks from a staff member, which they felt was handled unsatisfactorily by management.
Expect to pay around ¥20,000–¥29,999 for lunch and ¥40,000–¥49,999 for dinner. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying for set courses, with one lunch costing ¥25,000 and another final bill totaling ¥33,600 with drinks. An optional but highly recommended wine pairing can add around ¥30,000. For a special occasion, especially for wine lovers, most find it offers good value for the quality and execution.
- Getting There: ESqUISSE is on the 9th floor of the Royal Crystal Ginza building, a 3-minute walk from Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro.
- Reservations: Strongly recommended, often well in advance. The restaurant accepts reservations by phone.
- Payment: Major credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not. A 12% service charge is added to the bill.
- Age Restriction: Guests should generally be of junior high school age or older. Younger children may be permitted in private rooms if they can remain quiet.
- Dress Code: Smart casual. Men are asked to refrain from wearing shorts or sandals; a jacket is recommended.
- Seating: The restaurant has 38 seats, including private rooms for up to 6 people which can be booked for an additional charge.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking, but a discounted rate is available at the nearby Nishiginza Parking Lot.