I remember my first visit to Den in Tokyo—it was still at the old location in Jimbocho, before the move to Jingumae.From earning two Michelin stars, losing one, regaining two, to watching its fluctuating rankings on the World’s 50 Best list, I’ve witnessed Den go through many stages over the years.

“This is the kind of Italian cuisine you can only experience in Japan,” I thought to myself. This was at Il Ristorante - Luca Fantin

Located in Sanjo, Niigata, Uozen stands quietly amidst rice fields and rural landscapes. It was once a traditional Japanese eatery run by Chef Inoue’s father-in-law. In 2013, the couple took over the space and transformed it into a French restaurant rooted in the land’s essence.

Taian Table is currently one of the only two Michelin three-star restaurants in Shanghai, a recognition that owes much to the relentless efforts of Stefan Stiller over two decades in China.

When I visited Kyoto in mid-December, I had the chance to visit Ogata,a two-Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant and experience its seasonal crab menu.

I first visited Slovenia in 2018, and I still vividly recall the crystalline streams that meandered through the valley, leaving an indelible impression. Seven years later, I returned, this time driving from Udine, Italy. In less than an hour, we found ourselves once again at Hiša Franko.

Upon my recent return to Shanghai, I find myself constantly swept away by business trips, seldom staying for more than ten days. In such fleeting moments, I gravitate toward the familiar comforts of old favorites.

Masuda Ryuichiro, the fifth-generation owner of Masuda Brewery (Masuizumi), stands tall with white hair and a youthful face that exudes a rebellious charm, embodying the essence of a unique and intriguing soul.