Lunch with a View: Discovering Burdigala’s Delightful Cuisine Overlooking Tokyo Station

When my sister suggested we have lunch at Burdigala in Tokyo, I was intrigued. Located on the 5th floor of the Shin Marunouchi Building, just across from Tokyo Station, the restaurant seemed like a perfect spot for a family meal. The building itself is quite modern, housing fancy boutiques and business offices on its upper floors. As we stepped out of the elevator, the first thing that caught my eye was the stunning view of Tokyo Station through the restaurant’s large windows. It felt like we were being welcomed into a special part of the city. The former restaurant at the same location, Maison Barsac was renewed on June 2, 2024 and now operates as Burdigala.

From the moment we entered, I was stunned with the view of Tokyo Station. The friendly staff introduced us to the lunch menu, and we couldn’t wait to dive in. Burdigala has several bakery shops and cafes throughout Japan, but this is their only full-fledged restaurant. It’s a treat to enjoy their fresh bread along with our meal.

The restaurant’s story is quite fascinating. Since 2004, Burdigala has been a beloved name in the Hiroo neighborhood of Tokyo, where they’ve been baking bread with a focus on bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. They use over a dozen different types of flour, homemade yeast, and rich fermented butter to create their unique bread. The care they put into their bread-making is evident in every bite, and it’s no wonder they’ve become a staple in the area.

We started our meal with a salmon salad. It was more substantial than I expected for an appetizer, but the refreshing taste was just right to kick off our meal. The salad was followed by a cold potato and corn soup, which was perfect for the hot summer day. It was creamy and light, offering a nice contrast to the crispness of the salad.

Next came the grilled white fish, which I believe was sea bass. It was perfectly cooked – tender and flaky. The light, tangy sauce over the fish complemented its natural flavor beautifully. It’s clear that the chefs at Burdigala know how to balance flavors and textures to create a memorable dish.

The main course, however, was the highlight of our meal. The chicken was incredible, with a crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat inside. I was so impressed that I asked the staff about their cooking method. The knowledgeable waiter explained that they use a special type of chicken and cook it at a low temperature to ensure it’s cooked through while maintaining its moisture. This careful preparation resulted in one of the best chicken dishes I’ve ever had.

Throughout our meal, we enjoyed the freshly baked bread that Burdigala is famous for. Each piece was a testament to their dedication to quality. The restaurant’s name, Burdigala, actually comes from the ancient Latin name for Bordeaux. Just as Bordeaux is known for its wine, Burdigala aims to offer a dining experience where bread and wine play central roles.

The overall ambiance of the restaurant added to our experience. With its modern decor and relaxed atmosphere, it was easy to enjoy our meal and conversation. The view of Tokyo Station added a special touch, making us feel connected to the vibrant city around us.

If you’re planning to visit, I recommend making a reservation through Table Check. It’s available in English, making the process easy for non-Japanese speakers. This ensures you’ll have a spot at this wonderful restaurant.

Reflecting on our lunch at Burdigala, I’m grateful for my sister’s recommendation. It was more than just a meal; it was an experience that combined delicious food, great company, and a fantastic view. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Burdigala offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It’s a place where you can enjoy high-quality food in a relaxed, welcoming environment. I can’t wait to return and try more of their menu, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Tokyo.