The story
Step off the glittering main streets of Ginza and into a narrow lane. There, behind an unassuming facade, is Arrocería La Panza – a small, stylish restaurant that feels like a warm corner of Spain. The name means "big belly" in Spanish, a playful nod to the idea that a full stomach leads to a full heart. Since opening in 2017, this has been a place where grown-ups unwind, sharing glasses of wine and plates of honest, refined Spanish cuisine.
"Arrocería" is the Spanish term for a restaurant dedicated to rice dishes, and here that means over fifteen varieties of paella. From the classic Valencian version to paellas cooked in clay pots or iron pans, and even soupy rice dishes, the range is impressive. The seasonal course menus are a house specialty, each dish designed to build toward the final rice course while showcasing the best ingredients of the moment.
The restaurant earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand in its second year and has held it every year since, from 2019 through 2026 – eight consecutive years. In 2022, it became the first establishment in Japan officially certified as an arrocería and Spanish restaurant by the Spanish government's ICEX. These honors reflect a kitchen that respects tradition while making every plate feel fresh and personal.
The space is small and unpretentious, with just 27 seats. The vibe is relaxed but lively – the kind of place where you can settle in for a long evening, working through a seasonal tasting menu or ordering a la carte. The cooking is classical yet refined, employing seasonal ingredients from Spain and Japan. It is Spanish cuisine without the fluff, served in a setting that feels like a genuine discovery.
For anyone seeking an authentic taste of Spain in Tokyo, Arrocería La Panza delivers with warmth, skill, and a remarkable consistency that has kept it in the Michelin guide year after year.
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