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The Pizza Bar on 38th: A Slice of Italy in Tokyo’s Heart
In the bustling streets of Tokyo, a culinary gem is quietly making waves among food enthusiasts and pizza connoisseurs. The Pizza Bar on 38th is an elegant pizzeria located within The Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, offering a unique fusion of authentic Italian pizza with Japanese hospitality and attention to detail. The restaurant has become a standout not just for its pizzas but for the entire experience it offers — blending tradition, innovation, and a personal touch that leaves an impression on everyone who visits.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how The Pizza Bar on 38th came to be, why it’s considered one of the best pizza spots in Tokyo, how it gained popularity, the story behind its creation, the must-try pizzas on the menu, and pricing details. After reading, you’ll have all the information you need to understand why this is a must-visit restaurant for both locals and travelers.
The Beginning: How The Pizza Bar on 38th Started
The story of The Pizza Bar on 38th begins within the luxurious setting of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Tokyo, one of the city’s most prestigious five-star hotels. Situated on the 38th floor, the restaurant offers diners panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline, blending urban modernity with an old-world charm that feels like stepping into Italy.
While Tokyo has long been known for its sushi, ramen, and tempura, the city’s appetite for authentic international cuisine has also grown significantly. Italian food, in particular, has carved out a special place in the hearts of Japanese diners. Sensing this shift in culinary trends, the Mandarin Oriental decided to open an Italian-focused restaurant that would bring the best of Naples-style pizza to the Japanese capital. Enter The Pizza Bar on 38th — a restaurant dedicated to providing an unparalleled pizza experience, backed by a philosophy of sourcing only the best ingredients and adhering to the strictest pizza-making traditions from Italy.
At the helm of this establishment is a master pizzaiolo who trained in Italy and worked to master the craft of traditional Neapolitan pizza. His vision was to combine the centuries-old techniques of Naples with modern Japanese precision and hospitality, making The Pizza Bar on 38th a unique destination in Tokyo’s vibrant food scene.
Why The Pizza Bar on 38th is the Best: A Culinary Experience Like No Other
There are several reasons why The Pizza Bar on 38th stands out not just in Tokyo, but internationally, as one of the top pizzerias.
1. Italian-Japanese Fusion of Expertise and Precision
The Pizza Bar on 38th takes the classic art of Neapolitan pizza-making and elevates it by blending Italian craftsmanship with Japanese precision and hospitality. This fusion creates a culinary experience that goes beyond just pizza – it’s about offering the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and atmosphere. The Japanese commitment to excellence in preparation and presentation is reflected in every dish.
2. Perfectly Fermented Dough
Like any great Neapolitan pizza, the dough at The Pizza Bar on 38th undergoes a meticulous fermentation process to ensure a light, airy, and flavorful crust. The dough is made from Caputo flour, imported directly from Italy, and allowed to ferment for a minimum of 24 hours. This extended fermentation results in a crust that is both crispy and chewy, with an unparalleled depth of flavor that melts in your mouth.
3. Wood-Fired Perfection
The restaurant features a custom-built, imported wood-fired oven from Italy, which reaches temperatures upwards of 900°F (480°C). This allows the pizzas to cook in under two minutes, creating the iconic blistered, charred crust that Neapolitan pizzas are famous for. The high heat also locks in moisture, ensuring that the toppings remain fresh and the dough maintains its soft yet chewy texture.
4. Quality of Ingredients
One of the restaurant’s key philosophies is to use only the finest, most authentic ingredients. Many of the toppings, such as San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella from Campania, and extra virgin olive oil, are sourced directly from Italy. For seasonal ingredients, the restaurant incorporates fresh local produce from Japan, ensuring that each pizza reflects the highest quality standards.
5. Intimate Dining Experience
The Pizza Bar on 38th is not your typical pizzeria. It offers an intimate, exclusive dining experience with limited seating at a sleek counter-style bar, allowing guests to watch the pizza-making process unfold before their eyes. This level of interaction between the chef and the guests adds a personal touch, turning pizza into a refined, luxurious experience.
6. Attention to Detail in Presentation and Service
The restaurant’s philosophy also extends to its service, which is impeccable. Guests are treated with the utmost respect and care, with staff ensuring that every detail, from the presentation of the pizza to the wine pairings, is perfectly aligned. This combination of Italian tradition and Japanese hospitality is what truly sets The Pizza Bar on 38th apart from other pizza restaurants.
How The Pizza Bar on 38th Became Popular
The Pizza Bar on 38th gained rapid popularity through a combination of factors: the unique fusion of Italian and Japanese culinary traditions, its location in one of Tokyo’s most prestigious hotels, and glowing reviews from both local and international food critics.
From the moment it opened, it was clear that this wasn’t just another pizza restaurant. Food enthusiasts were intrigued by the restaurant’s concept and the promise of a luxurious pizza dining experience. Positive reviews from renowned publications such as The Michelin Guide, Eater, and The Japan Times helped propel its reputation further.
Social media also played a key role in its rise to fame. Diners who experienced the restaurant began sharing photos of the beautiful pizzas and stunning Tokyo skyline views. Word-of-mouth quickly spread, with many food bloggers and influencers showcasing their visit to The Pizza Bar on 38th.
The restaurant’s Michelin-starred recognition has only cemented its position as a must-visit for both locals and international tourists. Over time, it has become a symbol of culinary excellence, appealing to those who seek an exceptional dining experience in Tokyo.
The Story Behind The Pizza Bar on 38th
The Pizza Bar on 38th is not just the product of a vision to serve great pizza, but a reflection of the intersection of two cultures that hold food in the highest regard: Italy and Japan. The restaurant’s pizzaiolo wanted to pay homage to the authentic pizza-making techniques passed down through generations in Italy, while also embracing the Japanese ethos of craftsmanship and precision.
The restaurant was designed to be small and intimate, with just a few seats around the bar where the pizzaiolo works. This setup was inspired by the traditional omakase-style sushi bars found throughout Tokyo, where chefs interact directly with diners, offering personalized service. In the same way, the pizzaiolo at The Pizza Bar on 38th prepares each pizza with meticulous care, providing diners with a front-row seat to the pizza-making process.
In many ways, The Pizza Bar on 38th represents the evolution of both Italian and Japanese food cultures. It’s a restaurant that understands and respects tradition but also isn’t afraid to innovate and adapt to modern dining trends.
Must-Try Pizzas at The Pizza Bar on 38th
While every pizza at The Pizza Bar on 38th is a work of art, there are a few standout options that you absolutely must try:
1. Margherita
The classic Margherita pizza is a must-try for anyone visiting The Pizza Bar on 38th. Made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella, and basil, this pizza is a celebration of simplicity and high-quality ingredients. The delicate balance between the sweet tomatoes and the creamy mozzarella creates a flavor profile that is truly unforgettable.
2. Diavola
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, the Diavola pizza is a popular choice. Topped with spicy Italian salami, mozzarella, and tomato sauce, this pizza offers a perfect combination of heat and richness. The salami is sliced thin and evenly distributed, providing just the right amount of spice without overpowering the other ingredients.
3. Prosciutto e Rucola
This pizza features a base of mozzarella and tomato sauce, topped with fresh rocket (arugula) and thinly sliced prosciutto. The peppery taste of the rocket contrasts beautifully with the savory, salty prosciutto, while the mozzarella adds a creamy texture.
4. Quattro Formaggi
The Quattro Formaggi pizza is a decadent choice for cheese lovers. Made with a blend of four cheeses – buffalo mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, and parmesan – this pizza is creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor. Each cheese brings its own unique taste to the dish, creating a pizza that is complex yet balanced.
5. Seasonal Special
The restaurant also offers a Seasonal Special pizza that incorporates fresh, locally sourced ingredients based on the time of year. This option allows guests to enjoy a unique flavor experience that changes throughout the year, offering something new with each visit.
Prices at The Pizza Bar on 38th
Given its premium location and luxurious dining experience, The Pizza Bar on 38th is on the higher end in terms of pricing, but the quality of the food and service makes it worth every yen. Here’s a general overview of the pricing:
- Margherita Pizza: ¥2,800 – ¥3,500
- Diavola Pizza: ¥3,000 – ¥3,800
- Prosciutto e Rucola Pizza: ¥3,500 – ¥4,200
- Quattro Formaggi Pizza: ¥3,800 – ¥4,500
- Seasonal Special Pizza: ¥4,000 – ¥5,000
The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and Italian cocktails, making it the perfect spot for a special night out.
Conclusion: Why You Should Visit The Pizza Bar on 38th
The Pizza Bar on 38th offers much more than just pizza – it’s a complete culinary experience. From the expertly crafted pizzas to the personalized service and breathtaking views of Tokyo, this is a dining destination that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a Tokyo local or visiting from abroad, The Pizza Bar on 38th should be on your list if you want to experience some of the best pizza the city has to offer.
With its blend of Italian tradition and Japanese craftsmanship, this restaurant elevates pizza-making to an art form, providing guests with an unforgettable dining experience. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance, as the intimate seating and high demand mean tables fill up quickly. After reading this article, you’ll understand why The Pizza Bar on 38th is a must-visit for anyone passionate about good food, good service, and an unparalleled pizza experience.
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