Tabelog ratingAt maerge (mærge), in Tokyo’s upscale Minamiaoyama district, Chef Shibata delivers a modern French tasting menu that is both theatrical and deeply rooted in Japanese terroir. The experience is built around an uncompromising focus on seasonal ingredients, presented with flair and precision in a polished, purposefully designed dining room.
Guests consistently praise the creativity and coherence of the multi-course meal. Standout dishes include the signature carré de beurre, a brioche served from a wagon with a selection of luxury toppings, a striking chaud-froid of purple uni, and the ‘ivress’ botan shrimp with aged somen noodles. The breads and cannelés are also noted as exceptional, and the wine pairings are considered a worthwhile addition. Many reviewers describe it as a destination meal, worth planning a trip around.
The experience is not for everyone. The pacing is deliberately slow, with dinner lasting 3.5 to 4 hours, and the cuisine is highly idiosyncratic, which some find overly innovative. A minority of guests have reported service that was less polished than expected, citing occasional brusqueness or mistakes. The restaurant is also known for its strict reservation policies.
This is a top-tier dining experience with prices to match. Expect to pay ¥30,000–¥39,999 for lunch and ¥60,000–¥79,999 for dinner. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported the tasting menu itself cost around ¥36,300–¥38,500, with one guest's final bill including pairings reaching ¥47,435. Note that some main courses and premium ingredients carry surcharges. Most feel the price is justified by the level of artistry and theatre involved.
- Location: In Minamiaoyama, on the 1st floor of the VORT Minami-Aoyama III building. It is an 8-minute walk from Omotesando Station or a 10-minute walk from Gaiemmae Station.
- Menu: A single multi-course tasting menu (omakase) is offered. There is no à la carte option.
- Reservations: Required. The restaurant is known for its strict booking and confirmation policies.
- Age Restriction: Children aged 15 and older are welcome, provided they order the full adult menu.
- Dress Code: Semi-formal. Men are requested to wear collared shirts. T-shirts, denim, shorts, and sandals are not permitted. Guests are asked to refrain from wearing strong perfume.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners, UnionPay) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not. A 10% service charge is added to the bill.
- BYO: You may bring your own wine for a corkage fee of ¥16,500 per bottle.
- Seating: The restaurant has 30 seats, including tables and private rooms for 2, 4, or 6 guests.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but paid parking lots are located nearby.
