Cucina Buffa

The market for medium-priced, stylish Italian restaurants in Nakameguro must have seemed rather saturated, but the fellows behind Cucina Buffa still decided to give it a shot and opened this rustic eatery in late July 2014. We're glad they did, as both the trappings and the food maintain a commendable level of quality. Although à la carte options are available, the prix fixe dinners (from ¥5,000) provide far better value and ensure variety – the chefs head to Tsukiji every morning, pick out ingredients and decide on the menu only after that. We particularly liked the herb-flavoured porchetta (roast pork), interestingly served with figs and four different kinds of carrots. You get to choose from around 40 wines, and the chefs will pick out dishes based on your choice. They're always happy to take requests too – call at least one day before and you can even ask for your favourite ingredients to be included in the dinner set-up. Finally, the stone walkway in front of the restaurant and the mostly wooden interior add a touch of class that make Cucina Buffa an excellent date spot.