Maruta

The story

Maruta Restaurant Chōfu: Wood-Fired Dining in Jindaiji Garden

Fire and the Long Table

Maruta in Chōfu centers its wood-fired cuisine around a 5.5-meter communal table where guests share dishes prepared over a stove flame. The We're Smart Green Guide awarded four radishes to Maruta for its dedication to organic ingredients and community-focused operations. The kitchen flies fresh seafood directly from the Izu Islands to Chofu Airport each morning, ensuring ingredients like Japanese horse mackerel reach the dining room while still raw. This proximity between producer and table defines the seasonal rhythm of the service.

Seasonal Courses and Crafted Ware

The menu unfolds through roughly ten courses that balance individual portions with plates designed for group sharing. Every dish rests on black-glazed plates hand-thrown at a kiln overlooking the Genkai-nada coast in Karatsu, adding a tactile element to the meal. Guests dine within the grounds of the adjacent Jindaiji Garden, an edible space where herbs grow without synthetic chemicals and insects thrive alongside the staff. The natural environment contributes aromatic notes during summer months, though visitors should expect the presence of local fauna from spring through autumn.

Drinks and Garden Access

Beverage selections appear at the counter, allowing guests to choose drinks that complement the daily menu without a fixed pairing constraint. Families can request children's plates for elementary students, maintaining the inclusive atmosphere while respecting the shared nature of the main courses. The venue accommodates solo diners who wish to sit comfortably at the long table as well as groups gathering for private events. Reservations open two months ahead, reflecting the steady demand for this distinctive wood-fired dining experience in the neighborhood.