Nestled in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, Yen is a refined Japanese restaurant at 22 Rue Saint-Benoît that invites food lovers and cultural explorers to savor an exquisite culinary journey. Famous for its housemade buckwheat soba noodles and fresh, artfully presented dishes, this sleek spot perfectly blends traditional Japanese craftsmanship with a minimalist Parisian ambiance. Whether you’re a local foodie or a traveler seeking authentic tastes of Japan in Paris, Yen offers a memorable dining experience with meticulous attention to detail.
Yen’s menu features signature Japanese delights such as delicate sashimi platters, tempura vegetables, tender beef cheek miso, and the highly praised toro. The soba noodles stand out for their elegant simplicity and superior quality, making them a highlight for any diner. The restaurant’s minimalist design, complemented by traditional wooden beams and stunning ceramic tableware, creates a calm and stylish setting that enhances every bite. Guests frequently praise the freshness of the fish and the artful presentation that elevates the dining experience.
Service and Setting: While the service is generally warm and welcoming, some diners note it can be reserved at times. The minimalist decor emphasizes Japanese aesthetics, though a few guests mention the need for more vibrant decoration on the walls to better capture the atmosphere in photos.
Pricing and Portions: Yen is recognized for its premium ingredients and authentic flavors, which come with a price tag that some find high. Portions tend to be on the smaller side, designed for a refined tasting experience rather than large servings.
- What are the operating hours of Yen? Yen operates Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM. It is closed on Sundays.
- Is reservation required at Yen? Yes, reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.
- Does Yen offer takeout services? Yes, Yen provides takeout services.
- Is Yen wheelchair accessible? Yes, Yen is wheelchair accessible.
- Does Yen accept credit cards? Yes, Yen accepts various credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Visitors consistently highlight Yen’s authenticity, fresh ingredients, and elegant simplicity in both the food and atmosphere. While the minimalist decor is praised for its understated beauty, a few guests desire a warmer ambiance and more personable service. The premium quality comes with a price, and some feel portions could be larger. Overall, Yen remains a beloved destination for enthusiasts of fine Japanese cuisine looking for a sophisticated experience in Paris’s 6th arrondissement.
If you’re craving an authentic taste of Japan with a refined Parisian twist, Yen offers a standout option with its housemade soba and carefully curated menu. Ideal for a special lunch or dinner, the restaurant’s blend of tradition, quality, and minimalist design creates a uniquely enjoyable dining atmosphere. Just remember to book ahead and come with a spirit ready to appreciate subtle flavors and elegant presentation.
- Signature dishes: soba noodles, sashimi, tempura, beef cheek miso, toro.
- Ambiance: minimalist with traditional Japanese wooden beams and elegant ceramic tableware.
- Ideal for: foodies seeking authentic Japanese cuisine and travelers exploring Paris’s 6th arrondissement.
Nestled at 22 Rue Saint-Benoît in the heart of Paris’s 6th arrondissement, Yen stands out as an exquisite gem for lovers of authentic Japanese cuisine. Since its establishment, this restaurant has become synonymous with refined Japanese dining, particularly celebrated for its house-made soba noodles crafted from buckwheat flour, which showcase an exceptional blend of tradition and elegance.
Yen’s rise in Paris’s competitive culinary scene is marked by significant milestones that highlight its commitment to authentic flavors and impeccable quality. In 2015, the restaurant earned a coveted mention in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide, a testament to its culinary excellence and dedication to Japanese traditions within a European context.
Building on this recognition, in 2016, Fodor's travel guide spotlighted Yen for its authentic soba noodles, praising the house-made preparation that captures the essence of Japanese culinary artistry. The minimalist setting, featuring traditional wooden beams, enhances the serene dining atmosphere, making each meal a harmonious experience.
In 2017, Travel + Leisure further cemented Yen’s status with positive reviews emphasizing the restaurant’s minimalist décor and authentic Japanese cuisine. This recognition helped establish Yen as a must-visit destination for foodies and travelers seeking a genuine taste of Japan amidst the vibrancy of Paris.
Yen’s atmosphere is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Its minimalist design, complemented by traditional Japanese wooden beams, creates a zen-like ambiance that invites diners to fully savor each bite. The house-made buckwheat soba noodles are the centerpiece, celebrated for their sophisticated yet elegantly simple preparation that respects Japanese culinary heritage.
- Authentic soba noodles crafted in-house from buckwheat for unparalleled freshness.
- Minimalist Japanese wooden beam decor that offers a serene and authentic environment.
- Recognition by international guides including MICHELIN and Fodor’s, confirming its culinary excellence.
Yen continues to enchant both locals and visitors with its dedication to quality and tradition, making it an essential stop for those craving an authentic Japanese dining experience in Paris.
Nestled in the heart of Paris’s chic Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, Yen offers an exquisite journey into authentic Japanese cuisine that captivates food lovers and cultural explorers alike. This restaurant stands out for its house-made soba noodles, served in a setting defined by minimalist decor and traditional Japanese wooden beams, creating a serene and stylish atmosphere that perfectly complements the culinary experience.
Yen is celebrated for its exquisite dishes that showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the remarkably fresh salmon and tuna that evoke the flavors of Japan’s finest fish markets. Diners frequently praise the meticulous presentation of each course, with dishes that blend sophistication and simplicity — from tempura vegetables and soba noodles to sashimi platters and toro. The ceramic tableware enhances the visual and tactile appeal, elevating the meal into an artful experience.
- Authentic Japanese cuisine that transports you to the heart of Japan with every bite.
- House-made soba noodles crafted with care to highlight traditional flavors in a modern Parisian setting.
- Minimalist decor that offers a peaceful ambiance with elegant traditional Japanese wooden beams.
- Impeccable service that creates a warm and welcoming experience for each guest.
- Central location near iconic spots like Café de Flore, making it an ideal stop in Paris 06.
While Yen shines in delivering authentic Japanese flavors and a refined atmosphere, prospective visitors should be aware of a few aspects that may affect their experience. Some guests note that the prices are on the higher side, reflecting the premium ingredients and craftsmanship but potentially limiting accessibility for budget-conscious diners. Additionally, portion sizes tend to be smaller, which could be a consideration for those with larger appetites or looking for more substantial meals.
Another point of note is the occasional inconsistency in service. While many guests praise the attentive and warm hospitality, others have experienced less friendly interactions, suggesting that service quality might vary depending on timing or staff.
- High prices that reflect the quality but may not suit every budget.
- Small portions that might leave some diners wanting more.
- Inconsistent service noted by some as varying from warm and impeccable to less friendly.
