The Culture

Yoshi: A Journey to Japan in the Heart of Monaco

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by Natalia Bezruk Senior Contributor
August 27, 2025
Yoshi: A Journey to Japan in the Heart of Monaco

Located within the prestigious Hôtel Metropole Monte-Carlo, Yoshi is far more than a restaurant—it is a sanctuary of Japanese refinement where tradition and innovation meet with grace. Yoshi draws its strength from simplicity, precision, and a deep reverence for the art of gastronomy. The restaurant’s name, meaning “goodness” in Japanese, is no accident. It defines both its philosophy and its spirit: honesty, kindness, and refinement are at the heart of every detail, from the selection of ingredients to the delicate choreography of service. “Each product is chosen with the utmost care,” explains chef Salvatore Arcidi. “Every dish reflects balance and sincerity, never overcomplicating, always staying true to the essence of Japanese cuisine.”

A Dialogue Between Tradition and Innovation
At Yoshi, authenticity reigns supreme, yet it is never static. The kitchen pays homage to the timeless techniques of Japanese culinary art while embracing the cosmopolitan energy of Monte-Carlo. Guests discover dishes that bridge cultures, marrying subtle European touches with the precision and harmony of Japan. “The aim is not to impress with complexity,” the chef shares, “but to create a memorable, balanced experience—one that feels grounded yet full of surprises.”

This philosophy is perfectly embodied in signature dishes like the Ghindara no Saiko Yaki—black cod marinated for several days to achieve a melt-in-the-mouth softness—or the Ebi Shinjo, hiding delicate tobiko eggs at its center for an unexpected burst of texture. Inspiration comes from dialogue: between chefs, between cultures, and between the changing seasons.


The Ritual of Wasabi
Among the many distinctive touches at Yoshi, the wasabi ritual has become an experience in itself. Grated at the last moment in a circular motion, the root transforms into a fine, creamy paste, releasing tangy, salty, and floral aromas. This ancient ritual enhances the dishes without overwhelming them, embodying the essence of Japanese refinement—elegance through restraint.

An Immersive Experience
Dining at Yoshi is not only about the plate—it is about the atmosphere. French designer Didier Gomez imagined a sober, chic interior that opens onto a serene Japanese-inspired garden by landscape architect Jacques Messin. The result is an intimate haven where nature and architecture echo the harmony of the cuisine. Inside, calm sophistication reigns; outside, the tranquil garden invites guests into a contemplative moment of escape.

Completing the experience, the head sommelier curates one of the most exclusive sake selections in the region, alongside rare Japanese whiskies and refined green teas. With over 20 references, the sake list alone reveals an aromatic universe of exotic fruits, sesame, ginger, and citrus, offering pairings as nuanced as the cuisine itself.

Respecting the Guest
In Monte-Carlo, where an international clientele meets, the restaurant understands the importance of personalization. Yoshi adapts to allergies and dietary needs—whether vegetarian, pescatarian, or specific restrictions—without compromising its culinary identity. “Adaptation is not about removing ingredients,” the chef Arcidi insists, “but about preserving the spirit of the cuisine while caring for the well-being of the guest.”


Ultimately, Yoshi is about balance: taste, presentation, and ambiance coming together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. Here, dining is transformed into a holistic journey, one where refinement and emotion intertwine. From the first step into its peaceful garden to the final sip of sake, Yoshi offers not just dinner, but a passage to Japan—imbued with goodness, sincerity, and elegance.

Address: 4 Av. de la Madone, 98000 Monaco

Reservation: +377 93 15 13 13


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Natalia Bezruk

Senior Contributor

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MonacoVoice™

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