On 2nd December 2008, Joël Robuchon will launch a new Japanese restaurant concept. YOSHI, which means “kindness” in Japanese, will reflect Mr. Robuchon’s contemporary and poetic vision of Japan to which he is particularly attached.

Located in the heart of the Principality, within the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo, YOSHI will offer an elegant, contemporary and healthy cuisine, created by Japanese Chef Takéo Yamazaki, under the helm of Joël Robuchon and Christophe Cussac, Executive Chef.

Mr. Yamazaki is a disciple of Joël Robuchon, with whom he has already worked at Château Robuchon in Japan, as well as at “L’Atelier” in Tokyo. He has also trained with Alain Ducasse in Japan and in Monaco. Once again, he joins Mr. Robuchon to head the YOSHI brigade.

The menu will include a Selection of Sushi, Sashimi and Maki as well as à la carte dishes such as Ebi No Soup (langoustine with Kombu consommé) and Zeitaku Wakame (seafood in jelly) which will be accompanied by a selection of sakés, Japanese green teas and international wines. “Guests will come to YOSHI out of curiosity, they will be seduced by the quality and everyboby will meet there for pleasure !” comments Joël Robuchon who has also wanted to create a space dedicated to a sushi bar around which guests will be able to lunch and dine.

French interior architect Didier Gomez has created a warm and slick décor which gracefully combines the Japanese influences and the elegance of the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo. Mr. Gomez has used light tones such as white, ivory and pale green and noble materials including ebony wood, stone and silk, resulting in a serene and delicate atmosphere, in harmony with Joël Robuchon’s cuisine. “It is a great pleasure to work with Joël Robuchon and the Métropole Monte-Carlo” comments the designer. “I really appreciate the constant desire to achieve the highest quality, the strong will to always push the limits further in order to create this fine jewellery piece which YOSHI will become”.

Didier Gomez, who has already designed Japanese-inspired restaurants such as “Le Mood” in Paris, is famous for the projects he has carried out for several prestigious groups such as LVMH and Vivendi, as well as for numerous luxury brands including Ferragamo, Céline, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Yves Saint Laurent and Armani.

The dining room, which will seat 50 covers, will open up onto a Japanese-style garden, created by Jacques Messin. The garden designer has worked closely with Didier Gomez to create a transition space between inside and outside, thus creating a harmonious contrast with the city environment which surrounds the restaurant.

With YOSHI, the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo will become a true “gourmet destination”. The hotel already offers the 2-Michelin starred Joel Robuchon Restaurant, the Lobby Bar, the most happening place in Monaco, and the Pool Restaurant, a true haven of peace in the heart of the Carré D’Or.

YOSHI will be open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 12.15pm to 2.00pm for lunch and from 7.15pm to 10.30pm for dinner.

It is also important to say that the METROPOLE ESPA has also created a special Japanese treatment called YOSHI KI, specially for the opening of the Japanese restaurant.

A wonderfull treatment Incorporating influences of a Japanese ritual, from the welcome tea ceremony to the Invigorating Salt and oil body Scrub and balancing Shiatsu pressures, the Yoshi Ki treatment will conclude with a customary reflex zone pressure point massage of the feet to boost vital energy.

For more information please visit Hotel METROPOLE Monte-Carlo