The instant you see Kuriya Kashi Kurogi you know it's special. The hidden location, verdant setting and striking architecture are more than remarkable — they are one of a kind. With the Kurogi name, you expect nothing less.

Chef Jun Kurogi's eponymous ryōriya (traditional Japanese restaurant) is one of the best and most in-demand in the city. It was only a matter of time before he opened up another place — and only a matter of course that it would be impressive.

In contrast with his atmospheric restaurant — a converted 80-year-old geisha teahouse in the backstreets of Yushima — Kuriya Kashi Kurogi is as contemporary as you can get. It sits in a wooded corner of the University of Tokyo's campus, on the ground floor of an imposing building covered entirely with layered wooden slats — one of architect Kengo Kuma's trademarks — with a view of wildflowers and fresh foliage.