Michelin-starred restaurants usually conjure up images of silver service and white table cloths.
But a teeny tiny Tokyo noodle shop has bucked the trend joining the ranks of the world’s top restaurants by gaining a star from the respected Michelin Guide.
The most recent Michelin Guide to Tokyo gave a nod to Tsuta – a nine seat eater in the midst of the hustle and bustle of northern Tokyo – and in doing so giving its first star to a ramen eatery. The restaurant has a simple menu and cheap offerings. It is rare for casual cafes to receive a star.
It also meant Tokyo kept its title as the world’s culinary capital with the most Michelin-starred restaurants.
The restaurant staff, though, are unfazed by the attention.
“The most important thing is that customers like our ramen,” chef Takatoshi Itami said.
“We have good reviews thanks to them – getting a star was not our priority.”
The latest Tokyo guide gave its coveted three-star rating to 13 restaurants, with two stars awarded to 51 restaurants and another 153 restaurants receiving one star.
