Jinchan Shokudo, an authentic and popular izakaya in the heart of Paris

True Japanese cuisine in Paris is what many connoisseurs are looking for in the capital. The good news is that we've unearthed an address that's out of this world, friendly, ultra-gourmet and affordable! Head to the 12th arrondissement to discover Jinchan Shokudo, an authentic Japanese Izakaya in the heart of Paris!

This concept, the brainchild of Miyo and Alban Cacace, was born out of the desire to bring the atmosphere of a popular Japan to Paris, through an address where you can forget the codes and enjoy a convivial moment with friends. The setting gives us the perfect illusion of a stay in the Land of the Rising Sun: lanterns on the ceiling, hand-crafted crockery, rows of Daruma - there's no doubt we're a long way from the City of Light. On the menu, you'll find neither sushi nor California, and none of the classic menus to which Parisians are accustomed. Here, you'll find more sophisticated dishes, 100% homemade but offered at an affordable price.

Behind the kitchens, Hiroki Kuroda, a true Japanese chef, is busy converting Parisians to this still little-known facet of the capital's gastronomy. To achieve this, essential products such as rice and wasabi are imported directly from Japan. Beyond the ultra-specialized ingredients, Jinchan Shokudo favors short circuits as much as possible. In all cases, the same rigorous selection of products is evident on the plate.

Fish dishes are a must! Among the dishes not to be missed is the Toro Maguro Sashimi (€22), featuring slices of fatty tuna and red tuna, not to be confused with yellowfin. If this is the most expensive dish on the menu, you'd be wrong not to try it at least once: it's easy to see why this delicious meat is considered an exceptional product, which could easily be compared to the famous wagyu beef as far as fatty tuna is concerned. Another favorite? The Nasu Dengaku (8€), a delicious eggplant topped with yuzu white miso that melts in the mouth while respecting the vegetable's natural flavor.

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This is what strikes us most throughout the tasting: the respect for natural flavors enhanced by subtle pairings. To complete the experience, we recommend that you opt for a food and sake pairing: Yuki Onuma, a passionate and enthusiastic sommelier, will guide you through your tasting and prove that sake is not so far removed from wine! Whether modern or traditional, the selection of bottles is sure to tempt you off the beaten track. You can even enjoy hot sake, a comforting preparation especially in colder weather, or sparkling sake!

Nor is it possible to miss the famous Poulet Karaage (9€), which is becoming increasingly popular in Paris. This Japanese fried chicken is a sure bet, with meticulously selected pieces that are both tender and juicy! Last but not least, theAburi Salmon (13€). Imagine thin slices of snacked salmon, still mega-melted, sprinkled with salmon roe and Kizami Wasabi.

To end this tasting on a note of freshness, we finally let ourselves be tempted by the yuzu cheesecake (6€) with a touch of cream to counterbalance the acidity of this Japanese citrus fruit.

From start to finish, everything fits together perfectly. We leave Jinchan Shokudo happy to have discovered an address offering such excellent value for money. We'll definitely be back!

Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, please drink responsibly.

Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.

This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.