Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Tokyo

Simplicité has garnered high praise for its unique and innovative French cuisine with Japanese influences. Reviewers highlight the exceptional quality of every dish, from black sesame butter to seafood soup and Tamatebako, all created with ingenuity. The restaurant offers a well-rounded Michelin Star experience, excelling in food presentation, service, and taste combinations. Guests appreciate the friendly staff and cozy ambiance, especially at the counter seats where they can watch Chef Kaoru work his magic. While some reviewers found minor flaws in service or menu refinement, overall Simplicité is recommended for special occasions or those seeking a memorable dining experience blending French culinary techniques with Japanese flavors.

Simplicité in Tokyo's Shibuya – A Michelin Star Culinary Gem with French-Japanese Fusion Cuisine Inspired by Chef Kaoru's Artistry and Innovative Flavors.

Nestled in the vibrant district of Shibuya, Tokyo, Simplicité offers an extraordinary dining experience that masterfully combines French culinary techniques with the subtle elegance of Japanese flavors. This Michelin Star restaurant stands out for its consistently high-quality dishes, creative presentations, and attentive service, making it a must-visit for food lovers and travelers seeking an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

An Exceptional Michelin Star Experience with Flawless Service and Innovative Dishes

Simplicité delivers a well-balanced and delightful tasting menu that stands out in the world of Michelin Star dining. Every course dazzles with innovative flavor combinations, exceptional quality, and artistic presentation. The chef's dedication is evident as he personally crafts dishes that excite the palate while inviting diners to enjoy a multisensory experience. Guests especially appreciate the counter seating, which offers a front-row view of the chef's meticulous preparation and engaging interaction.

Cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and thoughtful wine pairings

The intimate and stylish interior creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for special occasions or an elegant night out. Reviewers praise the warm and welcoming service, noting the staff’s helpfulness and the chef’s patience in explaining each dish. Wine pairings, particularly white wines to complement the seafood-specialty menu, are skillfully selected to enhance the flavors. A house-made plum wine cocktail is a recommended highlight for cocktail enthusiasts.

 While there is no strict dress code, guests are advised to avoid overly casual attire.

 Children aged 10 and above are welcome at the restaurant.

 Yes, the restaurant accepts major credit cards including VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, and Diners Club.

Located in the fashionable Ebisunishi area of Shibuya, Simplicité is easily accessible and perfect for those looking to indulge in a refined dining experience. The restaurant offers dine-in only with no takeout or delivery services. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity and limited seating, especially at the counter where guests can witness the chef’s craftsmanship up close. Note that parking is available nearby for a fee, and the venue is not suitable for young children or large groups.

Simplicité’s dedication to culinary artistry, combined with its cozy ambiance and attentive service, makes it a standout choice for special occasions or memorable meals in Tokyo. Whether you are a foodie, a lover of French cuisine with a Japanese twist, or simply seeking an exceptional dining experience, Simplicité is well worth a visit.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Shibuya, Tokyo, **Simplicité** is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey that marries French elegance with Japanese precision. This Michelin-starred gem invites you to experience a unique dining atmosphere where every dish tells a story. From the moment you step inside, the open kitchen beckons, allowing guests to witness the artistry of Chef Kaoru as he crafts each plate with meticulous care. The ambiance is cozy yet sophisticated, making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and celebratory gatherings.

Simplicité is renowned for its innovative approach to seafood, featuring dishes that highlight the freshest local ingredients. The chef’s signature dish, the "Box Smoked Salmon," is a must-try, where salmon is delicately smoked in a wooden box, infusing it with a rich, aromatic flavor that dances on the palate. Pair this with their house-made plum wine cocktail, a refreshing blend that perfectly complements the seafood offerings.

At Simplicité, the menu is a carefully curated experience that changes with the seasons, ensuring that every visit offers something new. Guests rave about the "Seafood Tasting Menu," which features an array of dishes such as:
- **Grilled Octopus** with a citrus vinaigrette, perfectly charred and tender.
- **Miso-Glazed Cod** that melts in your mouth, served with a side of seasonal vegetables.

The chef’s commitment to quality and creativity shines through in every dish, making dining here an unforgettable experience.

One of the most captivating aspects of Simplicité is the open kitchen concept, allowing diners to watch the chefs at work. This transparency not only enhances the dining experience but also showcases the chef’s passion and dedication to his craft. Guests often comment on the inviting atmosphere, where the friendly staff makes everyone feel at home.

 It is celebrated for its exquisite seafood dishes and innovative culinary techniques.

 The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a warm atmosphere.

 Simplicité is conveniently located near popular attractions in Shibuya, making it a perfect stop after exploring the area.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, Simplicité promises an exceptional dining experience that you won’t forget. Make your reservation today and indulge in the culinary artistry that awaits you.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQxcnMyRmxRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6q-LFuLGGARGTXzTuJkYtQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQxcnMyRmxRRRAB

A great and well-rounded Michelin Star Restaurant experience. While some Michelin Star Restaurants have good appetizers, or good service, or good presentation, or good deserts, this restaurant is managing to keep a high level of quality on all these aspects. We were welcomed by the team and the service was excellent throughout the meal. The presentation of the dishes was great and very innovative in some cases (see videos). The quality of the food prepares was consistently high for all the courses. And the vine pairing was spot on for the dishes served. Kudos to the place to managing to keep a consistent high quality on all these aspects; a well-deserved Michelin Star. We are still trying to figure out how you can box smoke 😊.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURGaHF6eXd3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6q-LFuLGGARGTXzTuJkYtQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURGaHF6eXd3RRAB

IDEAL
We’ve tried many different sets on Michelin stars restaurants all over the world and this set is one of the most balanced and delightful.
It’s definitely a masterpiece! Awesome set with very interesting taste combinations.
Every dish was created with an exceptional excellence and professionalism. I advise you to choose seats on a counter because chef works himself - it was pleasure to see the process.
There is not big drinks menu, but there is so tasty cocktail based on home-made plum wine - I recommend you to try it.
It was our anniversary and the restaurant’s team made a tasty gift for us - it was very touchy and so nice :)
Cozy and stylish interior. Very friendly and smiley staff.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ5amFqazZ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6q-LFuLGGARGTXzTuJkYtQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ5amFqazZ3RRAB

Food: The chef did a great job of making a menu that had a lot of complex flavours. I thought it was a fun and interesting to eat. The restaurant had a interesting concept of making things simple to eat by having the customer use their hands. It was definently interesting to say the least. I thought many of the dishes lacked a compnent that tied the entire flavour profile togehter. The goal of making the dishes simple and refined were overlooked in some of the courses where it often felt far too complex and confusing.

Service: I thought the service was good but not up to the standard I was expecting . The "sommelier" was not able to answer as much as I would have liked about the paring with the main courses and just recommended the expensive bottles becuase they were expensive. Additionally, the wait staff was not as informed about the flavors and contents of the food as I would have thought. Often they had no idea what they were serving.

Ambiance: The restaurant was very nice and cozy. The open kitchen and counter seated was a nice touch. There are only a few tables available for groups of people. As a group of 4 we were sat at the table but smaller groups are sat at the counter.

Overall: I had a good time at Simplicté but I was not amazed. I think that the chef has amazing technique and skill but the menu needs more refinement in order to follow the mission the restaurant has set for themselves. I would consider coming back to dine in the future.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURKLUpLTE1nEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6q-LFuLGGARGTXzTuJkYtQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURKLUpLTE1nEAE

Came by for a second time for dinner.
Food was as good as last time. Really loved all the seafood dishes. The best were the appetizers - all very balanced, rich, and refreshing all at the same time.
Chef is also amazing. Highly recommend for those traveling to Tokyo.
____________________________________________________________
We had a lunch reservation at Simplicite on a Friday.
We walked in and was immediately greeted by the chefs who were busy working away at the counter.
The counter seats were great to watch the chefs work and have casual conversations.
Chef Kaoru was simply amazing! He was super patient in explaining all the dishes to us and answering our questions. When he saw me eyeing his beautiful plates and looking for the maker label, he told me where to find them and airdropped the store's address.
The food was impeccable and delicious. I will come back in a heartbeat and next time we will try to do dinner!
Highly recommend anyone that wants to give it a try. Just book it and you will have an amazing time.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNSZ3JLclV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6q-LFuLGGARGTXzTuJkYtQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNSZ3JLclV3EAE

The good:
- Five Stars for the food, the flow of service, the wine pairing (mostly white wine for a seafood speciality restaurant), and the atmosphere.
- As stated above, this is a seafood specialty restaurant, the chef/owner is skilled with French culinary background but incorporated Japanese flavor in his dishes. It such a pleasure experience watching him cook (btw the kitchen is spotless), truly demonstrated his passion for his food. Very friendly when introducing the concepts behind each dish.
- They served a specialty Taiwanese black tea which my fiancé absolutely loved (I’m originally from Taiwan but never had similar tasty tea before). Goes to show the restaurant really goes out of their way to make sure the drinks and food pair really well together.
- 10/10 will return

The not so good:
N/A

Notes:
- Reservation is required

Michelin-Star Japanese Seafood Dining at Simplicité, Shibuya

Simplicité, led by Chef Kaoru Aihara, is renowned for its innovative French cuisine with Japanese influences, focusing on aged fish. The restaurant has been recognized with a Michelin Star in 2023 and 2024, and a Bronze award in the Japan Restaurant Award in 2023.

The Culinary Journey of Simplicité in Tokyo's Shibuya District.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Shibuya, Tokyo, Simplicité has carved a niche for itself as an emblem of culinary excellence. This esteemed restaurant is the brainchild of Chef Kaoru Aihara, whose profound mastery blends traditional French cuisine with rich Japanese influences. Since its inception, Simplicité has distinguished itself by focusing on innovative dishes that celebrate aged fish, creating a dining experience that is both unique and memorable.

A Timeline of Achievements and Recognition.

2023: Michelin Star awarded to Simplicité.

 This prestigious accolade underscored the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence.

2023: Bronze award in Japan Restaurant Award.

 This recognition highlighted Simplicité's innovative approach and its impact on the culinary landscape.

2024: Michelin Star awarded to Simplicité for the second consecutive year.

 This remarkable achievement solidified its place among Tokyo's elite dining establishments.

Simplicité's innovative menu features a variety of dishes that exemplify the best of both worlds—French techniques enhanced by the subtle nuances of Japanese flavors. With an emphasis on aged fish, the dishes not only delight the palate but also tell a story of culinary tradition and modernity.

As Simplicité continues to garner acclaim, it stands as a testament to the artistry of Chef Kaoru Aihara and his team's dedication to providing guests with an unforgettable dining experience. For those seeking a blend of innovation, tradition, and top-tier culinary craftsmanship, Simplicité is undoubtedly a must-visit destination in Tokyo.

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Curbside Pickup

Outdoor Seating

At the vibrant heart of Tokyo's iconic Shibuya district lies a culinary gem known as Simplicité. This chic restaurant, located within the stylish SOPHIAS Daikanyama building, invites food enthusiasts into a realm where creativity meets the artistry of French cuisine. The moment you step through the sleek entrance, you're enveloped in an atmosphere that perfectly balances modern elegance and the warmth of a refined bistro. Simplicité captures not only the essence of fine dining but also the vibrant pulse of Tokyo, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to indulge in the best of Japanese hospitality and French culinary finesse.

Simplicité

Experience a refined selection of French cuisine with a focus on aged fish, crafted by Chef Kaoru Aihara.

Lunch Course

Dinner Course

Simplicité Menu

Simplicité menu overview in tokyo's shibuya district 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Shibuya, Tokyo, Simplicité offers an exceptional dining experience that harmoniously marries French culinary artistry with the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced locally. This Michelin-starred restaurant, led by the talented Chef Kaoru Aihara, specializes in showcasing the delicate flavors of aged fish, complemented by thoughtfully selected vegetables and exquisite sauces that elevate each dish to a culinary masterpiece.

Begin your meal with an artful selection of appetizers that balance rich, refreshing, and complex flavors. The chef’s innovative approach to presentation and flavor combinations invites you to explore seafood and seasonal vegetables crafted into elegant starters, each designed to awaken your palate and prepare you for the courses ahead.

 A refined dish featuring seasonal fish prepared with vibrant vegetables and complemented by exquisite sauces that highlight natural flavors.

 A sophisticated selection combining seasonal fish, premium meat options, fresh vegetables, and masterfully crafted sauces that deliver a harmonious and memorable dining experience.

While the menu emphasizes seafood and savory excellence, Simplicité also offers a curated selection of desserts that provide a sweet, delicate finish to your meal. Complement your dining journey with expertly paired wines—particularly white wines that enhance the seafood dishes—and specialty drinks including a house-made plum wine cocktail and a unique Taiwanese black tea, all chosen to elevate your gastronomic experience.

Michelin-starred French cuisine with Japanese influences, focusing on the delicate art of aged fish.

Artisan presentation combining innovative plating with approachable, hand-friendly dishes.

Intimate counter seating to observe the chef's technique and interact with the culinary team.

Expert wine pairings and unique beverage selections designed to complement the seasonally driven menu.

Indulge in exquisite French cuisine at Simplicité in Shibuya, Tokyo. Experience flavors and elegance—book your table now!

Simplicité: Elegant French Dining in Shibuya, Tokyo

Shibuya Municipality

A selection of dishes highlighting seasonal fish and vegetables, offering a taste of Chef Aihara's culinary artistry.

An elaborate menu featuring a variety of fish and meat options, showcasing the depth of French cuisine with Japanese influences.

Experience Simplicité: A Michelin-Starred Culinary Gem in Tokyo

Nestled in the fashionable district of Shibuya, Tokyo, 

 stands out as a culinary beacon for food lovers seeking a sophisticated dining experience. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a brilliant fusion of French culinary techniques with subtle Japanese influences, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply satisfying.

Simplicité offers two exquisite courses that highlight the chef's passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. The 

 features a selection of seasonal fish and vegetables, artfully prepared to showcase the delicate balance of flavors that Chef Aihara achieves with his culinary artistry. For those seeking a more expansive experience, the 

 offers an elaborate menu featuring both fish and meat options that beautifully demonstrate the depth and finesse of French cuisine intertwined with Japanese nuances.

Atmosphere and Service That Elevate Your Visit

Step inside Simplicité's cozy and stylish interior where the open kitchen invites diners to watch Chef Kaoru and his team craft each dish with precision and passion. The intimate counter seating allows for casual conversations and an up-close view of the culinary process, making your dining experience as interactive as it is delicious. The friendly and knowledgeable staff provide attentive service that complements the impeccable food and thoughtfully paired wines, enhancing your overall enjoyment.

 ensuring a consistently high level of culinary excellence across all courses.

 that transforms each dish into a visual and sensory delight.

 including a house cocktail featuring homemade plum wine, perfectly complementing the menu.

 offering an engaging view of the chefs at work in a spotless, open kitchen.

Simplicité is located at 1F SOPHIAS Daikanyama, 2-chōme-17-13 Ebisunishi, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0021, Japan. This intimate venue requires reservations to ensure a spot at the coveted counter seats or the limited table seating. While the restaurant does not offer takeout or outdoor seating, it provides a refined dine-in experience complete with restrooms and accepts credit cards for payment convenience. Parking is available nearby for a fee. Please note, the restaurant is not suitable for children and does not offer vegetarian options.

Plan your visit to Simplicité and immerse yourself in a harmonious blend of French elegance and Japanese precision that promises a memorable Tokyo dining experience.

Discover Simplicité in Tokyo's Shibuya District: A Michelin Star Culinary Experience with Unique Fusion Flavors and Intimate Ambiance.

Nestled in the trendy Ebisunishi neighborhood of Tokyo's Shibuya ward, Simplicité offers food lovers a distinct dining experience that masterfully blends innovative French cuisine with delicate Japanese influences. Awarded a prestigious Michelin Star, this intimate restaurant is celebrated for its consistently high-quality dishes and a menu that delights the senses with complex, well-balanced flavors.

A Unique Culinary Journey with Chef’s Artistry in the Spotlight

One of Simplicité’s standout features is its counter seating arrangement, allowing guests to watch the chef expertly craft each course. This up-close view into the kitchen reveals the passion and precision behind every plate, making dining here not just a meal but a captivating culinary performance. The menu showcases creative presentations and inventive flavor pairings, including a carefully curated wine selection that complements the seafood-centric dishes perfectly.

Comfortable Ambiance and Attentive Service

Simplicité’s cozy and stylish interior provides an inviting atmosphere for a memorable meal. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and attentive staff who enhance the experience with warm hospitality and detailed explanations of each dish. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a refined lunch or dinner, guests feel well cared for throughout their visit.

While Simplicité excels in many aspects, potential visitors should be aware of some limitations. The seating capacity is limited, making it essential to secure reservations well in advance to guarantee a spot. The menu currently does not offer vegan options, which may be a drawback for plant-based diners. Additionally, the restaurant maintains a no BYOB (bring your own bottle) policy, so all beverages must be purchased on-site. Finally, parking options are paid only, and there is no outdoor seating available.

Innovative cuisine that fuses French techniques with Japanese flavors

 guarantees exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

 lets diners engage directly with the chef’s creative process.

 creates an inviting atmosphere for every occasion.

 ensures personalized service throughout your meal.

Experience luxurious French cuisine with Japanese flair at Simplicité, a Michelin-star restaurant in Shibuya. Book your unforgettable meal today!

Simplicité: Michelin-Star Dining in Shibuya, Tokyo

Discover delightful menus and dining experiences at Simplicité, Shibuya's Michelin-starred gem. Indulge in exquisite courses crafted by Chef Aihara!

Explore Simplicité: Your Ultimate Dining Guide in Tokyo

Learn more about Simplicité, the Michelin-starred restaurant in Tokyo, offering innovative French cuisine with Japanese influences. A must-visit destination!

Simplicité menu overview in tokyo's shibuya district

Starters and appetizers

Main courses

Desserts and drinks

Special features