Dining with a prime view of the harbor to accompany fine food and drink is always an enticing proposition. Third-floor fusion cuisine restaurant and wine bar Bay Side Bistro 1-1 & The Rooftop offers such scenery from its spot overlooking Zou-no-Hana Park. Add to that a mix of jazz, soul and pop playing from an all vinyl album collection and the ambiance is complete.
The kitchen is run by veteran chef Yuzo Terashima. Terashima has dedicated over 50 years of his life to preparing French cuisine, including a five-year stint in Paris. He even speaks some French. The menu is a v
aried blend of Western and Asian. Choose appetizers such as Shumai with Grain Mustard (¥1100) and Homemade Char Siu with Mimolette (¥1300) to precede specialties like Duck Confit (¥3000) and Seafood Paella (¥3200). We struggled to choose, but finally went with the chef’s recommendation of Roasted Lamb Chops (¥3500) as our main course after polishing off some shumai. The lamb was tender and juicy, and though filling, we were seriously tempted to order another round.
The main focus of the drink menu is on a rotating selection of mostly organic wines offered by the glass (¥900~) or bottle (¥4000~). The bar also mixes cocktails (¥600~) and serves Kirin Lager (¥650) on draft or Ichiban Shibori in large-format bottles (¥800).
On Friday nights and special occasions, such as private parties, the roof is open to patrons. The scene is suited for a romantic evening soaking in the sights and ocean breeze with drink in hand or group parties desiring something above and beyond the norm. The roof has wooden barrel tables and a corner sofa as well as plenty of standing room. The third floor has six seats at the bar and tables for sixteen. With the arrival of warmer weather, we recommend giving this place a try.
