An American grill just ten seconds from Sakuragicho Station? We’re talking about Wine Hall Motomachi Club, which opened in July in the new station shopping mall CIAL Sakuragicho.
For appetizers we ordered the day’s fresh carpaccio (¥890) whose coarse salt paired well with sparkling wine. We also got some special Western-style stewed beef tendon (¥680), which was simmered to an almost melting softness with scrumptious texture. Orthodox selections of Parmesan Cesar salad (¥680) and garden-vegetable bagna couda (¥1080) are available, but we felt adventurous, going with the coriander-laden Thai salad (¥800) instead. Coriander tempered the sharp spiciness for flavor to whet the appetite (and, of course, pair with alcohol). For meat lovers out there, two recommended dishes are “Japanese Black Wagyu H-bone Steak” (¥1780/100g) or the Grilled Roast Chicken Half (Cajun spice or lemon garlic; ¥1080). If a meal is not a meal until a main dish is served, then look no further than pastas like the chef’s signature meat sauce pasta (¥900~) and “After-drink Pepperoncino” (¥800); or pizzas that start from ¥900. There are also some so-called “ethnic” rice dishes like fried garlic beef and rice (¥980) and Thai-style green curry (¥880). Definitely give these a try.
For drinks, wine is without a doubt the main feature here. French, Italian, Spanish, American, Chilean, Argentinian, Australian—they carry a decent range from around the world. By the glass, there is one sparkling variety and three red or white varieties from ¥600. Bottles start from ¥2500, with roughly thirty varieties available. Beer is ¥600 and soft drinks start from ¥500.
The decor has a classy, aged American feel to it, with the entrance adorned by old historical covers of Life Magazine. The interior opens up to feature a bar counter great for a cozy chat with someone over food and drinks. Or drop by with friends and colleagues for a feast at this real-deal grill restaurant.