Kodawari Tsukiji, an Immersive Fish Market Experience

Three years after the launch of Kodawari Yokocho, a restaurant with the appearance of a side street in Tokyo, former fighter pilot Jean-Baptiste Meunier opened Kodawari Tsukiji in 2019. Nestled in Paris’s 1st arrondissement, this establishment pays homage to the largest fish market in Tokyo that went by the same name. After 83 years of existence, this historic location closed its doors in 2018. 

Polystyrene crates full of fake fish, a wet-looking cobbled path, plastic bags and rubber gloves hanging up… From the moment diners enter the establishment, they are completely immersed in the atmosphere thanks to the busy decor. Drawing on all the senses, however, the experience goes far beyond what meets the eye. The whole space gives off an aroma of fresh fish that is not unpleasant. All this is accompanied by atmospheric sound that evokes a lively market, recorded by the owner during his many trips to Japan. The waiting staff also blend perfectly into the setting. With their blue waxed aprons and high white boots, they adopt the appearance of authentic local merchants. 

Scallop rice pudding and miso ice cream

Focusing on a short-circuit approach and the quality of its products, the friendly restaurant follows the Japanese philosophy of kodawari, to pursue perfection, to the letter.

The menu, hung from a clothes line, offers unusual dishes that showcase seafood. Five traditionally made ramen dishes are available with different toppings. In contrast to the typical starters like edamame and gyoza, the desserts surprise the taste buds. Scallop rice pudding, miso ice cream with crunchy pumpkin seeds… The flavour combinations are a success. As the food is prepared in an open kitchen, diners can watch the chefs at work, whether they are seated around a large raw-wood table or at the bar.

A victim of its success, diners may have a long wait to take a seat at Kodawari Tsukiji, particularly at weekends, but the immersive experience makes it all worthwhile. 

More information about Kodawari Tsukiji can be found on the restaurant’s official website.