A Hidden-Away Dining Spot That Makes Every Drink Special

Turtle

Tabiiro’s picks: signature dishes

Rich flavor released the moment the knife cuts in

Layers of potato add a contrasting texture

"Potato and Cumin Mille-Feuille Terrine" Made over Three Days

The "Potato and Cumin Mille-Feuille Terrine" immediately catches the eye with its beautiful cross-section of potatoes sliced paper-thin and layered with precision. Taking a full three days from preparation to serving, it is one of Turtle's defining dishes and a clear expression of the restaurant's approach to food. The filling combines onions slowly sautéed until deeply caramelized, the fresh aroma of cumin, Taleggio cheese, eggs, and milk for a rich, savory flavor. Thin layers of potato are packed into a mold and left to rest overnight. The next day, the terrine is baked for about 90 minutes, then rested for another night to concentrate its flavor before it is finally ready on the third day. It is finished with rock salt, pepper, olive oil, and mustard for an added accent. The delicate texture of the layered potatoes and the rich flavors come together in a dish well worth trying when visiting Turtle.

• 

  Italian Taleggio Washed-Rind Cheese

  Made with Taleggio, a classic Italian cheese with a refined aroma and acidity, and less of the pungency typical of washed-rind cheeses. Its distinctive creaminess and rich aroma complement the sweetness of the potatoes and the exotic flavor of cumin, creating a sophisticated taste that pairs especially well with wine and other drinks.

• 

  "C'est bon" Whole-Grain Mustard

  Served with "C’est bon Additive-Free Whole-Grain Mustard," made without chemical seasonings by "C’est bon," a private chef based in Nagoya. After searching for a mustard to complement the terrine, the owner found this one, and the pairing is exceptionally well matched.

Popular pairings

A pairing of sweets and drinks that's sure to become a favorite

Popular even with those who aren't big on sweets

"Truffle Basque Cheesecake with Cumin and Cassis Sauce"

With each bite, the rich aroma of truffle gently rises through the nose, making this an indulgent evening dish that goes beyond the usual idea of dessert. Here are three ways to enjoy this Basque cheesecake and discover its different sides. First, savor the rich cheese flavor with truffle on its own. Next, pair it with the house sauce, which combines the aroma of cumin with the sweet-tart flavor of cassis, and enjoy how the pairing changes the taste. Finally, sprinkle on natural sea salt made in Maldon, Essex, England, transforming the cake into something that also pairs well with drinks. The owner also suggests three alcoholic pairings that bring out different qualities in the cake. For layers of full, robust flavor, try a full-bodied red wine. For a bitter note and a refreshing finish, choose "Nikka Coffey Malt with Cold-Brew Iced Coffee." Another option is "Hot Chai" with rum, pairing warm sweetness with aromatic spices. The Basque cheesecake is also available for takeout, making it a stylish gift for a special occasion.

Must-try signature dish

• 

  "House-Made Brioche with Nagoya Cochin Egg and Chicken Liver Pâté"

  A dish that embodies the idea that "time makes it taste better," it is popular even with diners who are not fond of liver. The house-made brioche, created to complement the rich chicken liver pâté, is made generously with "Nagoya Cochin" eggs. After fermenting in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours, the dough is allowed to develop its flavor and richness before being baked in a loaf pan. The house-made brioche is also available for takeout.

• 

  "Spicy Lamb and Potato Lasagna"

  One bite releases a burst of juices followed by lingering spice. This depth of flavor comes from a lengthy preparation process. The lamb is marinated with spices, browned, and then simmered for eight hours. The meat is pulled apart by hand, returned to the pot, and simmered in its cooking liquid to concentrate the flavor. A special white sauce blended with rosemary keeps the dish from feeling too heavy while leaving a spicy finish.

Restaurant highlights

• 

  A one-of-a-kind atmosphere where drinks, food, and setting come together

  Three Beautiful Pairing Philosophies Pursued to Perfection

  The owner continues to explore three philosophies of pairing. The first is the synergy between drinks and ingredients. The second is the role of bread and other flour-based foods as a bridge between flavors. Dishes centered on house-made brioche and dough bring ingredients together and help connect more intense flavors. The third is the combination of setting, music, and time. A refined space, pleasant music, and an unhurried pace come together to create a sense of harmony that engages all the senses.

• 

  Find your favorite pairing of cheese and drinks

  Pairing with Sake

  Around 10 varieties of selected cheeses are available at any given time. While wine is a natural pairing, sake is also worth trying. Because cheese has relatively little sweetness, the fuller sweetness and umami of sake can create a surprisingly harmonious combination. The owner holds both SAKE DIPLOMA certification, specializing in sake and shochu, and Cheese Professional certification, allowing him to suggest pairings that offer an informed exploration of flavor.

Interior

Counter seating designed for easy conversation among groups of three or more

The chic interior has a warm, relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to forget the rush of the day. The custom-made counter has a gentle curve designed to encourage conversation, whether for two people or a group of three or four. The refined setting reflects the owner’s desire for diners to slow down and enjoy the pairing of food and drinks at an unhurried pace.

• 

  A "Grown-Up Evening" Lit by Lamps and Music

  At night, the interior is lit only by the warm glow of antique lamps. The soft, subdued lighting creates an intimate atmosphere and makes the time spent here feel all the more special. The owner selects the quietly playing music to suit the time of day and the mood of the guests. With its stylish setting, it is also well suited to an important date when you want to make a good impression.

• 

  A Comfortable Breezy Terrace Where Pets Are Welcome

  A stylish terrace sits beneath a wide overhang, offering a comfortable place to relax in the breeze. It can be used as long as the weather is not severe, and kerosene heaters and blankets are provided when temperatures drop, making "Hot Wine" or "Hot Chai" under the winter sky an appealing option. Pets are welcome on the terrace, so diners can also stop by with their dogs during a walk.

Movie

From the Tabiiro Editorial Team

Speaking with the owner reveals a deep commitment to the food, setting, and drinks. The welcoming feel of "Turtle" reflects the owner's unpretentious approach and dedication to pursuing his own vision. From dishes that take time and effort to prepare to the lighting and music that shape the space, every detail stems from that passion. There is something new to discover with each visit, making Turtle the kind of place you may want to keep as your own secret hideaway.