le-sorcier

Le Sorcier, in Yamaguchi prefecture, redefines exclusivity. Chef-owner Keiichi Hashimoto originally studied architecture before deciding to train in classical French cuisine, reflected in his exquisite plates. Inspired by the paintings of Rene Magritte, colors, textures, and negative space are all considered. Chef Hashimoto refined his style in Tokyo for ten years before finding inspiration in the Yamaguchi region.

Le Sorcier seats just one group per meal, a maximum of six people, and is notoriously hard to book. The cuisine is worth the effort, though: its French menu is crafted around the produce Hashimoto sources from the Yamaguchi area. The origin of each ingredient is decidedly Japanese, but their treatments are undoubtedly French. The menu changes daily, and it benefits from the close relationships Hashimoto has built with suppliers over his career. Eating at Le Sorcier is intimate, with only a few seats in a quiet dining room. Mostly French wines are paired with each course. The buzz has caught the attention of foodies around the world, who book months in advance for this intimate culinary treat.