L'Abysse Monte-Carlo: A Culinary Voyage into Japanese Cuisine
Yannick Alléno teams up with sushi master Yasunari Okazaki to reimagine Japanese dining in Monaco.
Opened in July 2024, L'Abysse Monte-Carlo represents a novel dining experience in the Principality, emphasizing the art of sushi under the guidance of acclaimed chef Yannick Alléno and Japanese sushi master Yasunari Okazaki.
Located within the prestigious Hermitage Hotel, L'Abysse seeks to offer a unique intersection of French gastronomic finesse and traditional Japanese culinary techniques.
The restaurant builds upon Alléno's successful Abysse venture in Paris, established in 2018, and reflects a culmination of his long-standing fascination with Japanese cuisine, which began during a trip to Hokkaido in 1988. At that time, a young Alléno was introduced to an array of flavors, including various seafood and traditional Japanese dishes, which sparked a profound appreciation for Japanese culinary arts.
Alléno, whose career spans a multitude of high-profile establishments globally, has claimed his spot at the forefront of French gastronomy with an impressive tally of 15 Michelin stars.
His collaboration with Okazaki marks a significant merging of their culinary philosophies, each bringing distinct visions to the restaurant's offerings.
The concept of L'Abysse emphasizes localized ingredients, a deviation from the typical sourcing strategies seen in many high-end restaurants.
Local fisher Rinaldi supplies freshly caught seafood, underscoring the restaurant's connection to the Mediterranean.
While the fish may differ from those served in Paris, the use of Japanese rice—imported from Kyoto and polished in Paris—maintains the authenticity of the sushi, adhering to the traditional standards that Alléno aspires to uphold.
L'Abysse's interior, designed by architect Laurence Bonnel, draws inspiration from Japanese aesthetics, with an intentionally intimate setting accommodating only 20 diners across 40 square meters.
Alléno aims for the ambiance to serve as an escape from the fast-paced world outside, fostering a relaxed, thoughtful dining experience.
This setting complements their commitment to excellence, as indicated by Alléno's high standards and methodical approach to detail.
The restaurant’s menu is guided by the principles of gyotaku, a traditional Japanese art form that captures the essence of fish through ink prints, further tying the dining experience to Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Alléno articulates a vision not just to serve food but to educate diners on the complexities and traditions surrounding sushi, aiming to instill a greater appreciation among guests.
Prices at L'Abysse range from €240 to €360 per person, depending on menu selections, positioning it among the premium dining options in Monaco.
This pricing reflects the luxurious nature of the culinary offerings and the venue's ambition to align with Monaco’s reputation for high standards and exclusivity.
As Alléno expresses, the opening of L'Abysse in Monaco is significant for chefs who aspire to create exceptional culinary experiences, further elevating the Principality as a crucial hub for fine dining.