Restaurant YUU: A Japanese-French Fusion Dining Gem in Brooklyn
Photos by Jordan Sapally ©️
Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Restaurant YUU stands as a space of culinary innovation guided by a Japanese mastermind. With a keen eye for innovation, YUU redefines French cuisine by seamlessly blending traditional Japanese “Omotenashi” hospitality with a relentless pursuit of excellence in French gastronomy. This fusion creates a culinary haven where guests are treated to an unparalleled dining experience, with the integration of these two worlds seamless and harmonious.
Behind the scenes, a passionate team of young chefs meticulously crafts each dish that emerges from YUU’s bustling kitchen. With their own unique flair and unwavering dedication, they collectively create food that transcend boundaries and excite the senses. Led by a culinary luminary, Restaurant YUU boldly channels the essence of French cuisine, infusing timeless classics with a modern twist that captivates diners and elevates the dining experience.
As guests step into the intimate 18-seat dining space tucked away in Brooklyn’s bustling landscape, they are greeted with a sense of anticipation. The curtains draw back, revealing the busy kitchen within, setting the stage for an extraordinary dining odyssey that defies the norms of the NYC culinary scene. The atmosphere is electric as diners eagerly anticipate the delights that await them.
Under the spotlight stands Chef Yuu Shimano, a virtuoso of flavors whose prowess seamlessly marries the refined traditions of French cuisine with the dynamic essence of his Japanese heritage. It’s a mesmerizing display of artistry that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression on all who experience it.
In this gastronomic symphony, each dish emerges as a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to showcase the finest ingredients and flavors. From the ethereal essence of smoked surf clam with celeriac to the opulent indulgence of abalone risotto dusted with nori powder, every bite is a harmonious fusion of artistry and taste. Witnessing the meticulous craftsmanship behind each dish adds an immersive layer to the dining experience, allowing diners to appreciate the skill and passion that goes into every creation.
The spacious and attractive counter seating ensures a comfortable distance between diners, allowing them to revel in the culinary spectacle with comfort. It’s an intimate yet communal dining experience that fosters a sense of connection and camaraderie among guests, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The menu effortlessly blends elements of traditional kaiseki and French tasting, creating a captivating symphony of flavors that tantalize the palate and leave diners craving more. Standout dishes like the Canard, lovingly referred to as the “duck pie,” exemplify the chef’s innovative approach, reminiscent of a decadent pâté en croûte. Equally enchanting is the smoked and charred surf clam salad, elevated by luxurious accents of caviar, celeriac and fava beans.
An example of the culinary journey you may experience at YUU would begin with a luxurious consommé, followed by the burst of ikura and the wrapped mussel. Indulge in foie gras mousse spiked with whiskey, followed by the striped mackerel and the modern twist of pissaladière. Delight in the mingling flavors of oyster and Wagyu tartare, though the Arctic char may lack seasoning. Enjoy the creamy embrace of abalone risotto and the simple yet flavorful langoustine. The exceptional house made bread awaits. Choose between monkfish or halibut, and feast on red meat perfection with both veal and squab. Reach the climax with canard, a masterpiece of dry-aged duck breast, before cleansing the palate with pear and yuzu. Conclude with a sweet indulgence of matcha and strawberry dessert, accompanied by petit fours and a gift bag of financiers as a sweet farewell.
Service at Restaurant YUU is nothing short of exceptional, with attentive staff poised to cater to every need, from pulling out chairs to offering insightful recommendations. As the final course concludes, guests are invited to retreat to a cozy lounge area behind the counter, where they can unwind with mignardises, sip on house-blend tea, and capture memories with Polaroid snapshots. It’s a fitting finale to an extraordinary dining sojourn, leaving guests with cherished memories of a truly unforgettable experience.
The expansive yet intimate dining space at Restaurant YUU exudes an industrial-chic charm, meticulously curated by a team of silent but vigilant caretakers who ensure that every moment is an experience to cherish. Welcome to the stage where Chef Shimano’s culinary opus unfolds, leaving you enraptured with each delectable note.
