K-Pop Star Hits Tokyo's 3-Star Michelin

Azabu Kadowaki, located in a quiet back street of Azabu-Juban, is helmed by owner-chef Toshiya Kadowaki. The restaurant is known for its creative and sometimes playful take on Japanese cuisine, incorporating luxurious ingredients like foie gras and truffles. While intimate with only a six-seat counter, it also offers private rooms for a more exclusive experience. The restaurant's most celebrated dish is its truffle rice, a fragrant and decadent offering that has garnered significant praise. Chef Kadowaki, who opened his own restaurant at the age of 40 after training at several other esteemed establishments, earned his third Michelin star in 2020. Tokyo stands as a global culinary capital with the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. For the 2026 guide, the city boasts 12 three-star establishments, a testament to its vibrant and high-quality dining scene. A three-star rating from Michelin signifies "exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey." The crab-centric restaurant G-Dragon also visited is likely the one-Michelin-starred Ginza Kitafuku. This establishment is renowned for its focus on premium crab delicacies, including Hokkaido King and live hairy crabs, and offers an elaborate multi-course tasting menu. Ginza Kitafuku has gained notoriety for offering one of the most expensive Michelin-starred tasting menus globally.