Renowned chef Tetsuya Wakuda discusses his award-winning restaurant Sagetsu, the evolution of immersive dining experiences and what Michelin-star recognition means for him and his team.
What do you believe has contributed to the success of Sagetsu and how does it differ from your other dining concepts?
Sagetsu’s swift rise in popularity exemplifies its unique combination of culinary artistry and deep cultural resonance, captivating diverse audiences. Additionally, we meticulously crafted a menu that showcases the finest ingredients while celebrating Japanese cuisine’s essence within a contemporary context. Unlike my other concepts, Sagetsu embodies refined simplicity; it allows guests to experience pure flavors and textures distinctly. Moreover, it draws inspiration from traditional Japanese culinary techniques while seamlessly embracing modern interpretations, enriching the experience. This approach, coupled with a serene ambience and impeccable service, creates a dining experience that resonates deeply with guests, elevating Sagetsu’s acclaim.
How did it feel when Sagetsu received a Michelin star?
It is an honor to receive a Michelin Star for Sagetsu. Moreover, it validates our relentless pursuit of culinary excellence and our commitment to crafting memorable dining experiences. This recognition signifies that our dedication to creating dishes that satisfy the palate and evoke emotions has been acknowledged. To maintain and potentially surpass the standards that earned Sagetsu its Michelin Star, we remain steadfast in our principles. Furthermore, quality ingredients are paramount in every dish we create, ensuring excellence in every aspect. We meticulously source seasonal produce to ensure each plate captures the essence of the moment perfectly. Additionally, our creativity drives us to constantly innovate, exploring new techniques and flavors that surprise and delight our guests. Continuous refinement and learning are crucial to staying at the forefront of the ever-evolving culinary world. Moreover, we strongly emphasize providing impeccable service that complements our carefully crafted cuisine seamlessly. The dining experience at Sagetsu is a blend of exceptional food, a welcoming atmosphere and meticulous attention to detail. Finally, this ensures each guest leaves with unforgettable memories of their visit.
In your opinion, how does offering an immersive dining experience impact a restaurant’s chances of earning Michelin star recognition?
By creating a memorable and engaging atmosphere, we can effectively elevate our elements, showcasing our creativity and dedication to excellence. However, our primary goal remains focused on ensuring our customers leave happy and satisfied with their overall experience. Consequently, this approach helps build a successful brand and establishes a strong reputation, reflecting our commitment to excellence.
How do you anticipate the trend of immersive dining experiences will evolve in the future?
We don’t generally focus on trends; instead, our primary goal is offering a complete dining experience that represents us. Additionally, we prioritize delivering satisfaction and delight to our customers, ensuring they have a memorable and fulfilling experience. As a result, this approach helps us build a strong brand and reputation within the competitive dining industry.
