Tabelog ratingLes Saisons (レ セゾン) is the flagship grand-maison restaurant of the Imperial Hotel, led by chef Thierry Voisin. It offers a classic French dining experience in a hushed, formal setting. The cuisine is rooted in traditional technique, particularly praised for its precise and deeply flavoured sauces, but creatively incorporates seasonal Japanese ingredients. Chef Voisin often greets guests personally, adding a personal touch to the formal service.
Diners consistently praise the refined hospitality, elegant plating, and the quality of the house-made breads and layered desserts. Standout dishes mentioned in reviews include an opening amuse-bouche of trout tartare with pistachio cream, and seasonal plates like sawara (Spanish mackerel) wrapped in a sakura leaf. The extensive wine list and sommelier pairings are also highlights, making it a popular choice for anniversaries, birthdays, and important business dinners. The kitchen can also prepare a well-regarded vegan course if notified in advance.
While most experiences are positive, a minority of guests have reported inconsistency. These occasional issues include dishes being oversalted or lacking flavour, instances of undercooking, and rare service lapses. Some non-Japanese visitors also found the staff's explanations in English to be limited.
Expect to pay around ¥13,000 to ¥18,500 for a multi-course lunch. Dinner menus typically start from ¥27,000; reviewers recently paid ¥32,600 for the "LE MENU DE THIERRY". A glass of Champagne costs around ¥3,600–¥4,000. For those seeking a memorable, formal fine-dining experience, the price is justified by the technique, service, and atmosphere. However, it may feel less valuable on the rare occasion that the kitchen or service has an off night.
- Location: Les Saisons is on the mezzanine floor of the Imperial Hotel's main building. From the lobby, go up the main staircase and turn left. It is a 3-minute walk from Hibiya or Uchisaiwaicho subway stations, and a 5-minute walk from Ginza Station or JR Yurakucho Station.
- Reservations: Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by phone. Note the strict cancellation policy: cancellations from 3 days to 1 day prior incur a 50% charge, and same-day cancellations incur a 100% charge.
- Dress Code: A dress code is enforced. Men are required to wear a jacket for both lunch and dinner. During summer (June–September), a collared shirt is acceptable for lunch. Shorts, sandals, and overly casual or revealing attire are not permitted.
- Age Restriction: Only guests aged 10 and over are permitted.
- Payment: Major credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) and QR code payments are accepted. Electronic money is not accepted. A 15% service charge is added to the bill.
- Seating: The restaurant has 94 seats, with private rooms available for 2 to 20 people for an additional fee.
- Smoking: The dining room is non-smoking. A separate cigar room is available for smokers.
- Parking: Parking is available.
