Review: 57, Roppongi, Tokyo
57 closed down at the end of September this year. Having only discovered it a few weeks previous I can't say I am sad to see it go. I opted for 57 based on the fact they not only had eggs benedict on the menu but it was served as part of an all day brunch menu, which if you so fancied could include all you can drink champers for a mere 3,500 Yen (approx £30). There is no real point delving into detail of this place as their closure does save any future patron being severely disappointed with the eggs benedict they were serving.
The Japanese (I have noticed) when serving do not tend to time the dishes well so that all plates for all diners arrive at the correct time. It's more of a 'you'll get it when it's ready' kind of affair. So, when in 57 I was pleasantly surprised mine and my dining partners mains all came promptly together, so that no-one was left with watering lips while the other tucked in! However, this prompt arrangement came at a cost. For the first time ever I have been served a dry hollandaise sauce. Yes, dry. The sort of dry you get on top of rice pudding, or worse, the cooled milk skin on hot drinks. Simply disgusting. In a foreign place I saved myself the energy to complain and just tried it. Plus, I was starving as we arrived late for our reservation because the venue was mere impossible to find (first time around at least). The taste however was very well balanced. It needed no seasoning and the ham was carved at a delightful thickness, enough to pack a salty punch but not too much that it was overbearing. The yolk of the egg also spot on. But the hollandaise. No. Even if 57 were still open I would be avoiding any recommendations. A sad time any bar closes, this ex-pat hang-out provided a little entertainment for fellow Gaijin's getting lost in the city. But I guess places like this should stick to what they know best and keep the drinks flowing after dark. R.I.P.
Review: Roti, Roppongi, Tokyo.
Looks good? Thanks to CNN Go for this image, as the dog ate my original.
Finding an affordable joint of value in Tokyo is harder than one might imagine. You are surrounded by high rises filled from top to bottom with a bounty of restaurants, and hidden streets crammed with izakaya's. If you want good Japanese fayre, you don't need to look long or hard. However, when you come to Tokyo to live, there comes a point when you crave that taste of home. Most non-Japanese visitors will flock to Roppongi, the cities international district popular with partying ex-pats all after a sliver of comfort. I don't venture to this part of town often myself but what does draw me here is the 'recommended' places for a good feed, western style. What drew me to Roti was the excellent price (even considering the exchange rate). The venue and staff all seemed nice enough but it was lacking a certain charm, that I can't quite put my finger on. Maybe it was our mildly scruffy outside seating or the distinct quietness of the main dining room (despite a group of gaggling girls and the restaurant's best attempt at ambience). That said the service was great and the food not too bad. My eggs benedict was served unusually with olives on top. The sauce was a good consistency and eggs perfectly cooked. I had a delicious chai latte alongside my brunch too which was so delicious I finished in a flash and promptly ordered another! So, whilst it ticked a couple of boxes I was not convinced enough to go back.
Have you had a good (or bad) experience home or away you can share? Please post your comments below and I will be sure to check each one out... Especially the good ones'!
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