A tiny little bistro located on the right side of Tamachi Chuo Street after getting off at Daiichi-dori Station on the Enshu Railway, commonly known as the Akaden (Red Train)Le Comptoir Western Cuisine"Comptoir" is a French word meaning "counter," and true to its name, the restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with intimate counter and table seating, allowing diners to enjoy delicious wine and food while feeling the warmth of the people and the cuisine. It's a popular spot on weekdays and weekends alike. Chef Onishi originally worked his way up at "Berkeley." Inside, soft lamp lighting illuminates the space, with simple wooden tables and chairs, featuring 4 counter seats and 14 table seats. It's safe to say that reservations are essential, but it's relatively less crowded on Mondays and Thursdays, so I've been visiting on Mondays recently♪
Santero Pinot Chardonnay Spumante Mini - Italy, Piedmont, White Wine, 200ml, ¥1,200
A dry sparkling wine made from Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay grapes. It has a fine, delicate effervescence and a crisp taste, making it an excellent pairing with food. Let's toast with this for the first glass!
"Bagna Cauda"
Enjoy the colorful array of fresh vegetables such as daikon radish, turnips, carrots, bell peppers, lotus root, broccoli rabe, petit vert, and romanesco, all served with a rich sauce flavored with anchovies and garlic.
Château La Closerie Grand Peugeot 1994, Bordeaux, France, AOC Moulis
The wine was photographed with the label neatly removed. The grape varieties are Cabernet Sauvignon 60%, Merlot 35%, and Petit Verdot 5%. After 20 years of aging, it has developed a nice maturity, and the acidity remains firm even as time passes. It is a medium-bodied wine with a solid core flavor, and you can enjoy the firm taste of tannins and sweetness within its softness.
"onion"
These tender new onions are meant to be enjoyed with just olive oil; no sauce is needed. They melt in your mouth when served hot, and their sweetness spreads throughout!
"Deep-fried sweet shrimp in olive oil" This dish features sweet shrimp served whole, shell and all. The savory aroma fills your mouth!
"Sautéed fresh foie gras (with balsamic sauce)" 1,890 yen
The creamy, rich foie gras, pan-seared to a crispy perfection, is perfectly complemented by the soft acidity and depth of the balsamic sauce. There's plenty of the rich balsamic sauce, so dipping a baguette into it allows you to enjoy it twice – you'll find yourself reaching for more!
"Château La Papeterie Montagne-St. Émilion 1994" Bordeaux, France
The grape varieties are De Merlot 70% and De Cabernet Franc 30%. It has a ruby color and a rich aroma of red fruits such as cherry, with nuances of bell pepper, blackberry, and licorice. With age, subtle aromas of truffle and forest humus emerge, adding complexity. The taste is full-bodied, well-balanced, and elegant. Furthermore, the grapes are grown in a predominantly calcareous soil, which contributes to its beautiful color.
"Veal tongue steak (stewed and then grilled)" 1,680 yen
The veal tongue, slow-cooked until tender, is finished by searing the surface. Enjoy it with the sweetness of the accompanying cabbage!
"Napolitan" *Off-menu item* It's not on the regular menu, but it's a special Napolitan that Chef Onishi makes for you upon request♪
"Crème Caramel (Custard Pudding)" 420 yen. Rich and smooth, with a slightly bitter caramel sauce, this is a pudding for adults♪
Here, they offer a wide variety of appetizers, small plates, pasta, and main courses, allowing you to enjoy your favorite combinations at reasonable prices. While it's possible to book a set course instead of ordering à la carte, the casual atmosphere and Chef Onishi's consistently excellent cooking are likely the reasons for its popularity. It's strange, but whenever I visit on a Monday, I always see the same familiar faces (laughs).
Le Comptoir Western Cuisine
Address: 329-8 Tamachi, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu City TEL: 053-456-7120
Opening hours: 18:00 - 24:00 Closed: Sundays
