Italian Cuisine Prepared with Select Ingredients

enoteca Rocco

Tabiiro’s picks: signature dishes

Risotto reflecting the chef's attention to every detail

The Ingredients Shine in "Sicilian-Style Bigfin Reef Squid Ink Risotto with Bigfin Reef Squid"

The "Sicilian-Style Bigfin Reef Squid Ink Risotto with Bigfin Reef Squid" makes full use of a large squid, from its flesh to its rich, flavorful ink and liver. The rice absorbs the squid's deep umami flavor as it cooks, becoming plump while each grain remains distinct. Finished with lemon zest, Italian parsley, and chili pepper, the dish gains a fresh aroma and a pleasant touch of heat. These accents complement the rich flavors while keeping the finish light. Inspired by Sicilian cuisine, this specialty of "enoteca Rocco" brings out the full flavor of the squid, making the most of every part.

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  A Dish That Brings Out the Full Flavor of Bigfin Reef Squid

  Only large bigfin reef squid weighing at least 2 kg are selected for this dish. The thick flesh has a pronounced sweetness and smooth texture, complemented by rich, umami-packed ink and liver. With each bite, the squid's natural depth of flavor and richness fill the palate. This indulgent dish brings out the full flavor of the squid, making the most of its exceptional qualities.

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  Each Grain Stands Out in "Asahi Rice"

  The dish uses "Asahi Rice," a native variety from Okayama Prefecture that is also known as "phantom rice" because it is difficult to cultivate and produces low yields. Its large grains have little stickiness, with a pleasantly firm texture and natural sweetness. Cooked al dente, each grain is coated in the rich umami of squid ink. Its satisfying texture with every bite plays an important role in bringing out the overall flavor of the dish.

Popular pairings

Appetizer featuring a variety of vegetables

"Set Antipasto"

After selecting a menu, the meal begins with the "Set Antipasto." Five appetizers are served one by one, featuring seasonal vegetables and selected ingredients from across Japan, with each dish highlighting the ingredients' natural qualities. The small plates are easy to enjoy, and for solo diners, the chef adjusts the portions accordingly. Each plate brings a different flavor and aroma, building anticipation for the dishes to follow. The selection changes depending on the day's ingredients, bringing something new with each visit. Paired with a glass of wine, the antipasto sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable meal.

Must-try signature dish

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  A Wide Selection of Wines from Across Italy

  The wine selection, centered on Italy and including bottles from around the world, is intended to be enjoyed alongside the food. More than 10 wines are available by the glass, along with a wide range of bottles. The name "enoteca" means "a place where locally produced wines can be enjoyed casually along with a meal," reflecting the restaurant's view that food and wine belong together. Later in the evening, it also works well as a wine bar.

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  "Panna Cotta Classica"

  This dessert has a smooth texture and the richness of milk and cream. Made without gelatin, it is baked in a water bath and finished with a charming, pudding-like appearance. This classic Italian dolce brings out the natural qualities of its ingredients through a simple preparation. Rich yet light on the finish, it leaves a distinctive lingering flavor after the meal.

Restaurant highlights

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  Dish served in a vessel with rich character

  The Spirit of "Mingei": Finding Something Special in Everyday Life

  The owner, who is originally from Tottori Prefecture, values the philosophy of "Mingei," which is rooted in everyday life and local traditions. This appreciation extends to the warmth of earthenware and the character that develops through continued use, finding beauty in objects made for daily life. These values resonate with Italian culture, where food is part of enriching everyday life. The restaurant in Shirokanedai, Minato, Tokyo, reflects the owner's wish for wine and food to be enjoyed casually as part of daily life, not only on special occasions.

Interior

Soft light gently illuminating the interior

Small lamps on each table create a relaxed atmosphere

The attic hideaway-like interior combines tableware that reflects the spirit of "Mingei," rooted in Tottori Prefecture, with pieces reminiscent of an Italian trattoria. Designer antique furniture is used for the tables, chairs, and lighting, creating a calm atmosphere. During the day, it is suited to a leisurely, indulgent meal, while evenings offer a relaxed setting for time with someone special. Later at night, it is also easy to stop by after work for wine and à la carte dishes, even when dining alone.

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  Counter Seating That Brings the Action Up Close

  The counter has just two seats, creating an intimate setting. When garlic begins to sauté in the kitchen behind it, its savory aroma drifts through the restaurant, adding to the appeal of these seats. The close proximity to the chef makes it possible to talk directly about the cooking and wines by the glass, while watching each dish being prepared up close is another highlight unique to the restaurant.

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  Table Seating for a Relaxed, Unhurried Meal

  The warm interior has one four-person table and one two-person table, accommodating groups of up to six as well as private bookings. With only a few seats, the small space has a quiet, hideaway-like atmosphere. It is well suited to special dinners for couples or meals with friends, providing a relaxed setting for sharing food and wine with close companions.

From the Tabiiro Editorial Team

The restaurant's hidden-away atmosphere suits the quiet character of Shirokanedai in Minato, Tokyo. With only a limited number of seats, the intimate setting encourages a leisurely appreciation of the food and wine, while hearing directly from the owner about the dishes and ingredients reveals the thinking behind them. It is a place for those who value not only the cuisine, but also the owner's personality and the comfort of the space as a whole.