Today, I’m sharing my experience at Mellow in Nakameguro, Tokyo. Tucked away in the quiet Aobadai neighborhood, Mellow offers a calm, sophisticated atmosphere and carefully prepared dishes that everyone is talking about. I finally planned ahead and visited, so here’s my honest review.
Nakameguro is a convenient area to stay if you enjoy dining- focused trips.
What Is Mellow Nakameguro Like?
Mellow is a restaurant and bar hidden in a residential area, slightly away from the busy Nakameguro streets. It’s the kind of place locals’ book for a relaxed evening rather than a quick bite.
Atmosphere
• The space is small but warm and welcoming
• Tables are close together, creating a lively yet comfortable mood
• Not too quiet, not too loud — perfect for a proper catch-up
Who goes there?
• Mostly adults in their 20s and 30s
• Popular for dates, girls’ nights, and special occasions
• It feels stylish without being intimidating
If you’re looking for a calm but social dinner spot, this Mellow Nakameguro fits the bill perfectly.
What We Ate at Mellow (Must-Order Dishes)
Low-Temperature Cooked Oysters (Cold Trio Plate)
This was the perfect way to start. In Japan, low-temperature cooking is often used to keep food safe while preserving a fresh, raw-like texture — ideal for oysters.
You get three distinct flavours on one plate:
• Ponzu jelly – light and citrusy (ponzu is a Japanese soy-based sauce)
• Tomato Checa & Tabasco – Italian-style freshness with a spicy kick
• Sherry & dill lemon – aromatic and very sophisticated
Rare-Cut Fried Tuna (Maguro Rare Katsu)
Crispy on the outside, deep pink inside. It’s surprisingly light for something fried, and the natural flavor of the tuna really stands out.
Japanese Beef Sirloin Tartare ★ Must Order
This was the highlight of the night. The beef tartare is rich, well-seasoned, and incredibly smooth. Spread it on a piece of baguette, take a bite, and you’ll understand why people come back just for this dish.
Mellow Taco Pizza
A thin, crispy base topped with plenty of vegetables and beans. There’s no thick crust, so it feels more like a light snack than a heavy pizza — perfect for sharing towards the end of the meal.
Perfect for Anniversaries & Celebrations
My friend surprised me with an anniversary dessert plate, featuring fruit, crème Brulé, and tiramisu. The presentation was thoughtful rather than flashy, and several other tables were celebrating too. It confirmed that this reservation-only restaurant in Nakameguro is a brilliant choice if you want to impress someone.
Helpful Tips Before You Visit
Access: About a 15-minute walk from Nakameguro Station
A lovely walk through Aobadai, but do wear comfortable shoes
Reservations: Absolutely essential
Even on weekdays, it often books out
Budget: Expect to spend around ¥6,000–¥8,000 per person
Service charge: ¥500 per person
If Mellow is fully booked, these Tokyo dining experiences are also worth checking.
Restaurant Information
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