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La Ciotat

Couleurs de Shimatani offers a unique culinary journey that seamlessly blends Japanese and Mediterranean flavors. Diners frequently commend the restaurant for its exquisite presentation, attentive service, and the harmonious fusion of tastes. The intimate setting, with only three tables, ensures a personalized dining experience. The restaurant has garnered a Michelin star, reflecting its high-quality offerings.

Discover Couleurs de Shimatani: La Ciotat's Michelin-Starred Culinary Gem 

Nestled in the charming heart of La Ciotat, France, at 35 Rue Edgar Quinet, 

 offers a truly unique dining experience that harmoniously blends the delicate nuances of Japanese culinary tradition with the vibrant, sun-kissed flavors of the Mediterranean. This Michelin-starred microrestaurant, run by the talented couple Yuichiro and Mika Shimatani, is a beacon for food enthusiasts seeking an intimate, sophisticated lunch or a refined takeout dinner in La Ciotat.

An Intimate Setting with Exceptional Culinary Craftsmanship

Couleurs de Shimatani is not your typical restaurant — it boasts only three tables, creating an exclusive and personal atmosphere where each guest can savor dishes crafted with precision and passion. The menu is a curated journey through diverse tastes and textures, far from the usual clichés, reflecting the chefs’ previous experience at the renowned AM Mazzia. This fusion of Japanese meticulousness and Mediterranean freshness results in an extraordinary dining adventure praised for its creativity and balance.

Couleurs de Shimatani offers a range of thoughtfully designed menus that cater to different appetites and culinary curiosities. Prices range from €49 for the Menu Sentier, €79 for the Menu Sentier Découverte, to €92 for the more elaborate Menu Sentier Émotion. Each menu promises a symphony of flavors, blending fresh Mediterranean ingredients with refined Japanese techniques — an excellent value for a Michelin-starred experience.

Guests can expect attentive and warm service in a quaint setting with impeccably prepared dishes that showcase an enormous range of tastes and textures. The restaurant is open for lunch from Thursday to Monday and offers a takeout service on Saturday evenings. While it doesn’t provide outdoor seating, the cozy interior is perfect for a focused, immersive dining experience. This spot also serves beer, wine, and cocktails, enhancing your meal with the perfect beverage pairing.

Is reservation required at Couleurs de Shimatani?

 Due to the limited seating of only three tables, reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot and enjoy an uninterrupted culinary journey.

 The restaurant welcomes guests Thursday through Monday for lunch from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM and offers takeout on Saturday evenings between 7:00 PM and 7:30 PM.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?

 While the focus is on Japanese and Mediterranean fusion, it’s best to contact the restaurant directly to discuss specific dietary needs and accommodations.

Patrons consistently praise Couleurs de Shimatani for its innovative fusion of flavors, impeccable service, and the intimate dining atmosphere that makes every visit special. The fresh, balanced dishes and artistic presentation have earned this cozy restaurant a loyal following and the coveted Michelin star. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality of Yuichiro and Mika, who make each meal an unforgettable event, whether dining in or enjoying their exquisite takeout.

Europe

France

Nestled in the heart of La Ciotat, **Couleurs de Shimatani** is a culinary gem that artfully blends Japanese precision with Mediterranean flair. This intimate microrestaurant, with only three tables, offers a unique dining experience that transports guests to a world of exquisite flavors and textures. The restaurant is open for lunch and provides takeout options in the evening, making it a perfect spot for both leisurely meals and quick bites.

 The culinary journey begins with the standout dish, the **modern chirashi**, a vibrant bowl that showcases a colorful array of fresh seafood, expertly arranged over a bed of perfectly seasoned rice. Each bite bursts with flavor, enhanced by delicate garnishes that elevate the dish to an art form. Another must-try is the **hot dish inspired by the chef's creativity**, which features seasonal ingredients and a sauce that balances richness with a hint of acidity, leaving diners craving more.

The restaurant's ambiance is as inviting as its menu. With a minimalist design that echoes the simplicity of Japanese aesthetics, every detail is thoughtfully curated. The owners, Yuichiro and Mika Shimatani, bring their passion for food and hospitality to every plate, ensuring that each meal is not just a dining experience but a memorable event. Their journey from working at a Michelin-starred restaurant to creating their own culinary haven is a testament to their dedication and skill.

 Guests often rave about the attentive service, which adds to the overall experience. The restaurant is known for its exceptional value, offering a carefully crafted menu for 110 or 130 euros, making it a delightful choice for food enthusiasts.

Couleurs de Shimatani is conveniently located at 35 Rue Edgar Quinet, just a stone's throw from the picturesque port of La Ciotat. After indulging in a delightful meal, visitors can explore the charming streets of La Ciotat, known for its stunning coastal views and rich history. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby beaches or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade.

 It is renowned for its unique fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine, offering an exquisite dining experience in a cozy setting.

 For a memorable meal that combines creativity, flavor, and a personal touch from the owners, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

 The restaurant is close to the port and beautiful beaches, perfect for a post-meal stroll.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the culinary artistry at Couleurs de Shimatani. Whether you’re a local or just passing through La Ciotat, this restaurant promises a meal that you will cherish. Book your table today and indulge in a unique fusion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNsaWJYWWhBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_qJP7KvyRIR_bbJUxU6wpg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNsaWJYWWhBRRAB

Amazing experience in this one-star microrestaurant of only 3 tables run by Yuichiro and Mika Shimatani. Open only for lunch.  In the evening they do take-out. Highly precise creative cuisine far from the usual clichés. Enormous range of tastes, textures. Attentive service. Excellent value for 110 or 130 euro menu. The only restaurant that is as good in a 200km radius is AM Mazzia. Not surprising since this is where the Shimatanis worked before opening their own little gem. Close to parking at the port of La Ciotat.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNwejRyYWRBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_qJP7KvyRIR_bbJUxU6wpg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNwejRyYWRBEAE

Thoughts on two takout dishes, one ”modern chirashi” dish and one of the ”hot dish ackordens to chefs inspiration.

All the dishes were very balanced but still full of flavours which stands out and gives a tasty experience, however in a raring out of ten it would be a nine, that little piece missing would be something with a chewy texture and acid like taste to compliment the heavy sauce.

Still, the presentation (on a takeout order) was exeptional, it included flowers as Well as some sweet ginger,wich i for the record would have liked to see more of.

In a meassure of Stars out of five, this is an easy 4, even debatable for a 5 but not quite
There yet. Still, heavily recommended.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN1NUtYRDVnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_qJP7KvyRIR_bbJUxU6wpg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN1NUtYRDVnRRAB

Fresh and tasty dishes in a very small restaurant in the city centre of La Ciotat. The place is owned by a very nice Japanese couple which mix the Asian cuisine with the Mediterranean ingredients. The results is positively unexpected and this is a very good surprise.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR4bGJXNHlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_qJP7KvyRIR_bbJUxU6wpg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR4bGJXNHlBRRAB

We had a wonderful time at the restaurant. Mika and Yuichiro have created a special place to lunch and really deserve their Michelin Star. They perfectly found the balance between Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine to propose a unique experience for their guests. From the beginning to the end of the meal, the execution was ideal.
We will come back as soon as possible !

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQyZ29uMUNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_qJP7KvyRIR_bbJUxU6wpg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQyZ29uMUNBEAE

We went for lunch and it was superb.  Do not hesitate to seek out this absolute gem of a restaurant.  Small place (10 covers) and all food freshly prepared in an immaculate kitchen.  The food is superb, a mix of japanese and more European cuisine.  Amazing value given the quality which is very high.  The people running the restaurant are lovely, very friendly and welcoming.  It was a top experience and a genuinely memorable meal. Please go :)

Michelin-Star Restaurant Couleurs de Shimatani in La Ciotat

Couleurs de Shimatani, located at 35 Rue Edgar Quinet in La Ciotat, France, is a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean cuisines. The establishment is helmed by Chef Yuichiro and Pastry Chef Mika Shimatani, who previously worked at prestigious establishments before opening their own restaurant. The restaurant offers an intimate dining experience with only three tables, ensuring personalized service. It operates from Thursday to Monday, serving lunch and offering a takeaway service on Saturday evenings.

A culinary gem blending Japanese and Mediterranean flavors in La Ciotat.

Nestled at 35 Rue Edgar Quinet, Couleurs de Shimatani stands as a beacon of innovative gastronomy in the picturesque coastal town of La Ciotat, France. This intimate Michelin-starred restaurant is the brainchild of Chef Yuichiro and Pastry Chef Mika Shimatani, who have masterfully combined the delicate techniques of Japanese cuisine with the vibrant, fresh ingredients typical of the Mediterranean region. The result is a unique dining experience that captivates food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

Couleurs de Shimatani opened its doors in 2021, immediately distinguishing itself in the culinary world by offering a fresh fusion of Japanese precision and Mediterranean zest. The restaurant’s founders brought with them years of experience from prestigious kitchens, setting the stage for something truly exceptional in this charming French harbor town. With only three tables, the establishment ensures a highly personalized and immersive dining atmosphere that allows guests to fully savor each thoughtfully crafted dish.

, the restaurant was proudly awarded its first Michelin star, a testament to its exceptional quality and innovative culinary approach that continues to push boundaries and delight palates far beyond the local region.

The restaurant’s cozy setting, with only three tables, allows Chef Yuichiro and Mika Shimatani to offer attentive and personalized service, enhancing the overall dining experience. They serve lunch from Thursday to Monday and extend their culinary creations to takeaway on Saturday evenings, providing flexibility for both locals and travelers seeking exquisite flavors. Their menu artfully balances the umami depth of Japanese ingredients with the sun-kissed freshness of Mediterranean produce, resulting in a symphony of tastes and textures that feel both familiar and refreshingly new.

 blending Japanese culinary precision with Mediterranean ingredients to create dishes full of vibrant flavors and textures.

 recognized for its high-quality cooking and creative approach since 2023, setting a benchmark in the regional dining scene.

 small setting of three tables ensures every guest receives attentive care and a memorable culinary journey.

In the sun-drenched heart of La Ciotat, one can savor the flavors of "Couleurs de Shimatani," a charming eatery nestled along Rue Edgar Quinet. This delightful restaurant serves as a portal to the culinary treasures of Provence, where each dish tells a story woven with fresh ingredients sourced from local markets and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. Here, the air is perfumed with aromas of herbs and spices, mingling with the soft sounds of laughter and clinking glasses, creating an inviting ambiance that beckons both locals and travelers alike. Dine alfresco under a canopy of vibrant flowers, as the gentle breeze carries whispers of the nearby coastline, or choose a cozy spot indoors adorned with artistic touches that reflect the region's cultural heritage. The menu bursts with creativity, offering a fusion of traditional French cuisine and daring international influences that promise a delectable culinary adventure. From exquisitely crafted seafood dishes to decadent desserts, each plate is a masterpiece designed to tantalize the taste buds. Beyond the enticing food, the vibrant location plays a pivotal role in the dining experience at Couleurs de Shimatani. Just a stone's throw away, the striking cliffs and azure waters of the Calanques National Park invite guests to explore breathtaking landscapes that create the perfect backdrop for a long, leisurely meal or a lively evening out. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, this eatery captures the essence of La Ciotat's joie de vivre, making it an unforgettable destination for gastronomes and adventurers alike.

Couleurs de Shimatani

Experience a fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean flavors with our thoughtfully crafted menus.

Menu Sentier

Menu Sentier Découverte

Menu Sentier Émotion

Menus

Couleurs de Shimatani Menu Overview in La Ciotat France 

Nestled in the charming town of La Ciotat, Couleurs de Shimatani offers a unique culinary journey where the delicate artistry of Japanese cuisine meets the vibrant essence of Mediterranean flavors. This Michelin-starred microrestaurant, run by the talented couple Yuichiro and Mika Shimatani, features a meticulously crafted menu that celebrates seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, and authentic Japanese spices, delivering an exquisite dining experience distinctive from typical fare.

Begin your meal with beautifully balanced starters that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. Expect creative presentations that blend the delicate umami of Japanese techniques with Mediterranean freshness, including artfully prepared seafood dishes accented by subtle spices and garnishes like edible flowers and sweet ginger, adding fragrant and textural contrasts to awaken the palate.

The restaurant offers three distinctive menus that expertly combine seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood, and traditional Japanese spices to deliver nuanced flavor profiles. The Menu Sentier, Menu Sentier Découverte, and Menu Sentier Émotion each present a progressive journey through refined tastes and textures, balancing freshness and complexity in every bite. These thoughtfully curated options showcase the chefs' dedication to innovation, while honoring the rich culinary traditions of both Japan and the Mediterranean.

End your culinary adventure with desserts that mirror the kitchen’s philosophy—delicate, balanced, and surprising. Expect refined sweet creations that combine Japanese precision with Mediterranean sweetness, often incorporating fresh seasonal fruits and traditional Japanese techniques to craft desserts that are light yet satisfying, providing a perfect finale to your meal.

To complement the exquisite cuisine, Couleurs de Shimatani offers a curated selection of drinks, including fine wines from the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, carefully chosen beers, and expertly crafted cocktails. These beverages are selected to enhance the delicate flavors of the food, ensuring a harmonious dining experience from start to finish.

 - A cozy microrestaurant with only three tables, ensuring attentive service and a personalized dining experience.

 - Open mainly for lunch with the option of takeout dinners, perfect for savoring the flavors at your own pace.

 - A masterful blend of Japanese precision and Mediterranean ingredients resulting in dishes full of inventive textures and flavors.

Savor the exquisite flavors at Couleurs de Shimatani in La Ciotat. Enjoy a unique culinary experience with every dish. Book your table today!

Couleurs de Shimatani: Fine Dining in La Ciotat

Bouches-du-Rhône County

Enjoy our exquisite menus during lunchtime, offering a unique culinary experience.

Lunch Service

Available on Saturday evenings, savor our dishes at home with our takeaway option.

Takeaway Service

Couleurs de Shimatani: A Michelin-Starred Culinary Gem in La Ciotat France 

Tucked away at 35 Rue Edgar Quinet in the picturesque coastal town of La Ciotat, Couleurs de Shimatani offers an extraordinary dining experience that blends Japanese precision with Mediterranean flavors. This intimate 

 boasts only three tables, creating a cozy and exclusive atmosphere perfect for food enthusiasts seeking a refined lunch in a serene setting.

Exceptional Lunch Service With Creative Cuisine

Couleurs de Shimatani opens exclusively for lunch, delivering an exquisite menu that showcases a harmonious fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Chef Yuichiro and Mika Shimatani craft highly precise dishes that escape typical clichés, offering an 

 rarely found in the region. Diners can indulge in a thoughtfully curated lunch menu priced at 110 or 130 euros, representing exceptional value for such inventive gastronomy.

Convenient Takeaway Option on Saturday Evenings

If you're pressed for time or prefer dining in your own space, the restaurant offers a 

 available on Saturday evenings. Here, beautifully presented dishes, including modern chirashi and inspired hot dishes, allow you to savor the remarkable balance of flavors and creative presentation in the comfort of your home.

Despite its diminutive size, Couleurs de Shimatani impresses with immaculate kitchen standards, attentive and friendly service, and an ambiance perfect for an intimate gastronomic journey. The restaurant does not offer outdoor seating or serve breakfast and brunch, focusing its excellence on lunch and dinner experiences complemented by a selection of fine wines, beers, and expertly crafted cocktails.

 — Exclusively open for lunch with takeaway available on Saturday evenings.

 — A masterful blend of Japanese techniques and Mediterranean ingredients.

 — Only three tables ensure personalized attention and a peaceful atmosphere.

 — Fine dining menus priced thoughtfully at 110 and 130 euros.

 — Enjoy carefully chosen wines, beers, and creative cocktails.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region

Experience an unforgettable fusion of Japanese & Mediterranean cuisine at Couleurs de Shimatani, La Ciotat's intimate Michelin-starred restaurant. Reserve your table now!

Couleurs de Shimatani: Michelin-Starred Dining in La Ciotat

Savor exquisite lunch menus blending Japanese and Mediterranean flavors at Couleurs de Shimatani, La Ciotat's exclusive microrestaurant. Book your experience!

Discover La Ciotat's Hidden Gem: Couleurs de Shimatani

Explore tips for an unforgettable experience at Couleurs de Shimatani in La Ciotat. Learn about menu options, history, and reservation tips!

Michelin-Star Restaurant Couleurs de Shimatani in La Ciotat

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