Tokyo-born Yuta Tamamori rose to fame as a member of the beloved boy band Kis-My-Ft2. His turn as sous chef Shohei Kirako in the television series Grand Maison Tokyo further cemented his status as a fan favorite.
Having grown up in Tokyo and built his career there, Tamamori knows the city inside and out—including its hidden pockets of calm amid the bustle. Here, he shares with MICHELIN his insider picks on where to shop, eat, drink, and even unplug.
Where do you head for foreign flavors?
Arva [an Italian restaurant on the 33rd floor of the Two MICHELIN Key hotel Aman Tokyo]. I love the pasta there. I usually eat at casual places, so having a meal in the sophisticated atmosphere of a hotel is a refreshing change.
Are there any other hotel restaurants you love visiting?
Héritage by Kei Kobayashi [the French restaurant located on the 45th floor of The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo]. I was moved by the unimaginably creative dishes. Having played a sous chef in Grand Maison Tokyo, I could imagine the hard work and effort of the chefs and producers behind the beautiful dishes.
Tokyo is known for its frenetic pace. Any favorite spots for when you want to slow down?
I enjoy just strolling around places with water, like the Odaiba district or along the Sumida River. There's something so nice about wandering through those areas. After filming, I often go out alone at night. Since fishing is my hobby, I occasionally travel outside the city to the sea, rivers, and lakes. The best way to relax is to do nothing on a boat with no man-made structures in sight.
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It seems like the third wave coffee movement has firmly taken root in Tokyo. Do you have a preferred café?
During the filming of Grand Maison Tokyo, Ikki Sawamura, who plays Rikutaro Kyono, called a café car [from Verve Coffee] to the studio. I still remember how the aroma of freshly roasted coffee filled the air, instantly refreshing me. In Tokyo, I particularly enjoy Verve’s latte. There's something special about taking a moment to savor coffee brewed by a skilled barista—it’s my favorite way to unwind.
Tokyo is a paradise for fashion lovers. In your opinion, which districts are the best for shopping?
Shibuya and Omotesando. I love fashion, so I get excited by the trend-reflecting shop windows of high-end brands and the stylish people around town. Of course, I also shop, but just walking around can be stimulating and inspiring.
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