Masashi AMPEIJI

Chef Masashi Ampeiji's culinary philosophy is built upon a profound reverence for ingredients, the natural world's bounty, and the dedicated efforts of producers. He emphasizes the critical importance of deeply understanding each material's unique characteristics and expressions. Through a filtering process of his own sensibility, experience, and individuality, he endeavors to craft unique dishes that tell a compelling story on the plate. This ethos extends beyond the cuisine to encompass the entire dining experience. The ultimate goal at anpeiji is to create "Shifuku no Toki" (Moments of Bliss) for guests, fostering joy and connection with their loved ones. This objective is realized through meticulously designed spaces and attentive service that genuinely embraces each patron, ensuring every detail contributes to a memorable occasion. Drawing heavily from his formative years training in Southern France, Chef Ampeiji's cooking champions a light style of French cuisine. He is distinctly drawn to the region's characteristic preference for olive oil, using it judiciously over the heavier applications of butter and cream. While classic French sauces remain a cornerstone of his preparations, he masterfully integrates and spotlights the unparalleled quality of Japanese ingredients. This seamless blend results in a harmonious culinary expression where refined French techniques beautifully complement the delicate nuances of local produce, including vegetables lovingly grown by his own father, underscoring a deep, personal connection to his ingredients. Chef Ampeiji's technical style is defined by a light French methodology, characterized by a deliberate preference for olive oil over richer fats like butter and cream. He maintains a foundational emphasis on sophisticated sauces, which serve to unify and elevate his creations, all while meticulously showcasing the intrinsic excellence of high-quality Japanese ingredients. His plating is renowned for its brilliant coloration and delicate artistry, designed to be as visually captivating as it is flavorful. The flavor profiles are notably bright and refreshing, often accentuated by the artful inclusion of edible flowers, aromatic herbs, and various citrus fruits, which impart invigorating notes of sweetness and acidity. This distinctive approach infuses the dining experience in Fushimi with a palpable "breeze from the south of France."