Article by YumikoH, originally published on Deep Japan
Do you like Japanese beers? Yes, they’re light, fine and refreshing. I love them! But sometimes, I feel like having something different, like Belgian beers. In Tokyo, you can find bars offering Belgian beers, more easily than before. So, you might know what kind of taste they are. How about Belgian food and dishes? I must say there aren’t many places where you can enjoy both beers and dishes. But in Akasaka, there is a Belgian restaurant, “Chez Mikawa” which locates in 2 minute walk from Akasaka station on Chiyoda line.
“Chez Mikawa” isn’t a bar, but a restaurant with 80 seats. Why don’t you have a party there? You can reserve the whole space with 80 people! Or, if you’re with 20-30 people, I recommend reserving ‘a big table’- their impressive main table with benches around. It could be for casual parties in relaxed atmosphere. If you’re with 10-20 people, there is a private room in Japanese style where you take off your shoes and sit down on the floor. The table is called “horigotatu” style and you can stretch out your legs under the table.
“Chez Mikawa” offers several course menus with good amount. If you aren’t familiar with Belgian cuisine, it would be better to choose a course menu. But following dishes are my recommendations! Their homemade fried potatoes would be a good start with your first toast-“KANPAI!” (Fried potatoes are originally from Belgium, not from France!) Then, you shouldn’t forget to order ‘mussels escargot style’ or ‘steamed mussels in white wine’, traditional Belgian meals. ‘Waterzooi’-chicken cooked with cream sauce and ‘Carbonnade’-beef stew cooked in beer are also traditional ones. They really go well with Belgian beers!
“Chez Mikawa” offers 3 Belgian draft beers and more than 20 kinds of bottled ones, and each beer has its own glass to be served. You can enjoy all different shapes and designs which are especially made to be served in the best condition. Some of Belgian beers are very fruity and flavored with fruits like cherry, raspberry and banana. As they’re like cocktails, most of women do love them!
Though I recommended “Chez Mikawa” for parties, it’s also suitable for small groups and even to yourself. There is a counter in front of the kitchen. You can enjoy your quiet time with Belgian beers and dishes.
“Chez Mikawa” also opens over the lunch time on weekdays and offers lam steak, venison stake, fish and chicken etc. You can check out their weekly lunch menu on the Facebook.
The owner-Mr.Horigome and his son speak English and French. So please don’t hesitate to ask any kinds of questions and your requests when you make a reservation!
Restaurant Chez Mikawa
Tel.03-3583-5212
2F, 3-13-4, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
http://www.chez-mikawa.co.jp/
https://www.facebook.com/chez.mikawa.jp
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