The story
In the 12th arrondissement of Paris, on rue Crozatier, Towa brings together French technique and Japanese restraint. Chef Shin Okusa and pastry chef Ayako Okusa, both trained in prestigious French houses, lead the kitchen with a precise, seasonal approach to modern cuisine.
The cooking is rooted in French tradition — careful sauces, respectful heat, produce-driven composition — but a Japanese sensibility runs through it. Dashi, yuzu, and shiso appear as accents, lifting the plates without overwhelming them. The menu changes regularly with the seasons, and diners can choose from several formats: a weekday lunch at 45 EUR, a Saturday lunch at 55 EUR, or the more ambitious Carte Blanche — five courses at 97 EUR, served to the whole table and driven by the chef’s daily inspiration. Sunday midday and evening service also has its own menu.
The name Towa means “eternal” in Japanese, and in French it sounds like toi — you. The restaurant describes it as an evocation of connection, sharing, and hospitality. That idea runs through the service: warm, precise, unhurried.
Towa has earned a place in the Michelin guide, recognized for its consistent quality and clear identity. It sits near the Marché d’Aligre and Gare de Lyon, in a neighborhood that rewards a detour. Reservations are required.
Recognition
Location