There are few families who set the benchmark across the worlds of art, fashion, film, gastronomy, and culture, but the Aokis prove that lightning strikes wherever they are. While most of us are familiar with music impresario Steve and model and actress Devon, talent ran in the genes as father, Rocky, was a tour de force having introduced the concept of teppanyaki through his successful Benihana restaurants.
And while these stylish siblings might not be restaurateurs (older brother Kevin is now CEO and president of Aoki Group), both Steve and Devon rose to the top of their professional fields. Steve holds countless music awards and has worked with a myriad of artists including Diplo, Gucci Mane, and Paris Hilton. Devon conquered the catwalks of Balenciaga, Chanel, and Comme des Garçons. Together, they are the ultimate sibling duo, therefore we asked them to open their Tokyo address book.
Below, discover a unique side of Tokyo filled with flavor, fun, and excitement and make sure to check out more insights from MICHELIN Inspectors, chefs, and celebrities.
What are some of your favorite restaurants in Japan?
Okina (One Star)
Kyoto, Japan
SÉZANNE (Three Stars)
Tokyo, Japan
Devon Aoki: SÉZANNE completely blew me away. The precision and artistry that goes into each dish reminded me why Japanese and French cuisine are such a perfect match. It felt like every detail was designed to create something unforgettable. I’ve eaten at some incredible restaurants, but SÉZANNE really stands out as a place where you can experience the heart and soul of fine dining.
Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongiten (Two Stars)
Tokyo, Japan
Steve Aoki: Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi is my favorite restaurant in Tokyo because it’s sushi at its absolute finest. The precision, the quality of the fish, and the attention to detail are unmatched. Every piece feels like a work of art, and the experience is both humbling and unforgettable.
What are some of your favorite hotels in Japan?
Aman Tokyo (Two Keys)
Tokyo, Japan
Steve: The Aman Tokyo is my favorite escape in the city. Its design blends modern luxury with Japanese simplicity, and the views across Tokyo are breathtaking. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and effortlessly calming—a true oasis above the bustle.
The Aoyama Grand Hotel (One Key)
Tokyo, Japan
Devon: The Aoyama Grand Hotel is one of my favorites in Tokyo. The rooms are gorgeous, and it’s the little touches—like the curated art and the way the lighting changes throughout the day—that make it feel so special. Plus, being in Aoyama, you’re right in the heart of one of the city’s most vibrant areas.
Amanemu (Three Keys)
Shima, Japan
Mitsui Kyoto (Three Keys)
Kyoto, Japan
What are your favorite museums and galleries?
Gallery Yamahon
Kyoto, Japan
Steve: Gallery Yamahon is my favorite art space in Kyoto because it beautifully showcases contemporary Japanese craftsmanship. The minimalist setting highlights the ceramics and artworks in a way that feels both intimate and inspiring. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the quiet beauty of thoughtful design and artistry.
Ginza Kuroda Touen
Ginza, Tokyo, Japan
Tonari no Murata
Kyoto, Japan
Devon: Tonari no Murata feels like a hidden gem. It’s more than a museum—it brings Kyoto’s traditions and art to life in such a thoughtful way. Walking through the tatami-floored galleries, with views of the surrounding gardens, you feel completely immersed in the beauty of Japanese culture. It’s a space where you can slow down and really connect with the artistry and history around you.
Do you have a hidden gem in the city?
Ginza Music Bar
Ginza, Tokyo, Japan
Steve: I love Ginza Music Bar because it’s a small, stylish spot where the focus is on incredible sound quality and vinyl records. The atmosphere is intimate, and the curated music creates an experience that feels both nostalgic and modern. It’s the perfect place to unwind and get lost in the music.
What are your favorite parks and outdoor spaces?
Nara Park
Nara, Japan
Steve: One of my favorite parks to visit is Nara Park because it feels like stepping into a storybook. The wide-open spaces, ancient temples, and friendly deer roaming freely create a magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect blend of nature, history, and charm, and there’s something incredibly peaceful about spending time here.
Ise Jingu (Ise Shrine)
Ise, Japan
Devon: "It’s such a special place. Walking along the gravel paths under towering cedar trees, with the sound of the Isuzu River nearby, feels so peaceful. The simplicity of the shrines and the tradition of rebuilding them is deeply humbling. It’s more than beautiful—it’s an experience that stays with you."
What's your favorite bookstore in Japan?
Tsutaya Daikanyama
Tokyo, Japan
Steve: Whenever I’m in Tokyo, I always have to stop by Tsutaya Daikanyama. It is my favorite bookstore because it’s so much more than just a place to buy books. The design is beautiful, the selection is curated perfectly, and the atmosphere invites you to slow down and explore. I love how it blends books, art, and culture in a way that feels inspiring and uniquely Tokyo.
Address Book
Okina
11 Sagashakado Daimoncho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, 616-8422, Japan
SÉZANNE
7F, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, 1-11-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-6277, Japan
Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongiten
3F, Roppongi Hills Residence B, 6-12-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
Aman Tokyo
The Otemachi Tower, 1-5-6 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
The Aoyama Grand Hotel
Minato-ku Kitaaoyama 2-14-4, Tokyo, Japan
Amanemu
2165 Hazako, Hamajimacho, Shima, Japan
Mitsui Kyoto
284 Nijoaburanokojicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Gallery Yamahon
1650 Marubashira, Iga, Mie 518-1325, Japan
Ginza Kuroda Touen
5F TORAYA Ginza Building, 7-8-17 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan 104-0061
Tonari no Murata
18-11 Okazaki Minamigoshocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8334, Japan
Ginza Music Bar
7-8-13 Brown Place 4F, Ginza, Chuo 104-0061 Tokyo Prefecture, Japan
Nara Park
Nara, Japan
Ise Jingu (Ise Shrine)
1 Ujitachicho, Ise, Mie 516-0023, Japan
Tsutaya Daikanyama
17-5 Sarugakucho, Shibuya 150-0033 Tokyo Prefecture
Hero image: Steve Aoki and Devon Aoki
