The White Fox

A small but smart hideout right by the train tracks next to Oji Station, this British-run joint serves up an interesting selection of European-Japanese fusion cuisine and invites diners to try a wide variety of small dishes. Priced on both sides of ¥1,000, these offerings include innovative combinations making good use of local ingredients and demonstrating the extensive experience of chef Trevor Blyth, who’s been working in Japan for almost 15 years now. The White Fox opens around noon, serving a more compact ‘daytime menu’ until 5.30pm, when the full range of delicacies comes into play, along with the noteworthy sake and shochu lists. These seem appropriately brief and carefully curated, while the wine list can appear a little unfocused – not to say that oenophiles won’t find plenty to get excited about here, too. Dinnertime is also preferable in terms of atmosphere, as the lively surroundings contrast nicely with the calm, stylish feel inside after dark. Named after the area’s fox legends, the restaurant also does traditional Christmas dinners and other special plans.