Ōrtensia

At Ōrtensia, Chef Terumitsu Saito has created a unique culinary language that speaks fluently in both French and Japanese. His cuisine represents not simply a fusion of two traditions, but rather a thoughtful dialogue between them—where French gastronomic foundations are elevated by Japanese precision, philosophy, and aesthetic sensibility. Having refined his craft at the Mandarin Oriental before opening his own restaurant, Chef Saito brings a level of technical mastery and creative vision that places Ōrtensia among Paris's most compelling dining destinations. The restaurant's culinary offerings center on two tasting menu experiences, each designed to showcase Chef Saito's distinctive approach. The signature 7-course Ōrtensia menu at €265 represents the chef's complete artistic statement—a carefully orchestrated progression of dishes that demonstrates his ability to coax extraordinary flavors from exceptional ingredients while maintaining the delicate balance between French richness and Japanese restraint. Each course builds upon the last, creating a narrative arc that takes diners on a memorable gastronomic journey. For those seeking an introduction to Chef Saito's cuisine, the Discovery menu at €95, available for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays, offers a more accessible yet equally refined experience. This menu provides a curated selection of dishes that capture the essence of the chef's style, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors or those looking to enjoy exceptional cuisine at midday. What distinguishes Chef Saito's cooking is his unwavering commitment to seasonal ingredients and his ability to honor their essential character while transforming them through technique. His French training provides the foundation—the sauces, the cooking methods, the understanding of flavor building—while his Japanese sensibility informs the restraint, the precision of knife work, the attention to texture, and the visual poetry of each plate. The result is cuisine of remarkable finesse, where every element serves a purpose and nothing is extraneous. The menus evolve with the seasons, ensuring that each visit to Ōrtensia reveals new expressions of the chef's creativity and access to the finest products available. This commitment to seasonality means that the restaurant's offerings are never static; instead, they reflect the rhythm of nature and the chef's ongoing exploration of ingredients at their peak. Whether working with delicate seafood, premium meats, or seasonal vegetables, Chef Saito approaches each ingredient with the same reverence and technical precision. The presentation of dishes reflects this dual heritage as well—plates arrive with the visual elegance associated with Japanese cuisine, where negative space and careful composition create miniature works of art, yet the portions and flavor profiles remain satisfyingly French in their generosity and complexity. This is food that engages all the senses, inviting diners to appreciate not just the taste, but the aroma, texture, and visual beauty of each creation. Complementing the cuisine is an exceptional wine program featuring over 600 carefully selected references, ranging from €47 to €4,700. This impressive cellar allows for sophisticated pairings that enhance the nuanced flavors of Chef Saito's dishes, whether you prefer classic French wines or wish to explore more adventurous selections. The wine service reflects the same expertise and attention to detail that characterizes every aspect of the Ōrtensia experience.