MASIA

The story

MASIA Tokyo: Modern Catalan Cuisine in Ginza | Michelin Recommended

MASIA

In the heart of Ginza, on the eighth floor of the Bellvia building, MASIA brings a piece of Catalonia to Tokyo. The name itself—masia in Catalan—refers to a traditional farmhouse, a family home passed down through generations that eventually opened its doors as a restaurant. Chef Mateu Villaret translates that spirit of rustic hospitality into a precise, modern dining experience.

Born in Calella, a coastal town near Barcelona, Villaret grew up surrounded by the contrasting landscapes of the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees mountains. His family’s diverse regional roots—Catalan, Madrid-born, Andalusian—gave him an early taste of Spain’s rich culinary tapestry. After training in acclaimed Spanish restaurants and working in Italy, the Netherlands, and Singapore, he moved to Japan. A stint at Hajime in Osaka (three Michelin stars) left a deep impression. His work soon led him to helm a Catalan restaurant in Osaka before opening his own place, MASIA, in Tokyo in 2022.

The kitchen’s philosophy rests on three pillars: the roots of Catalonia, the soul of Spain, and the best of Japanese seasonal ingredients. The menu revolves around the concept of Mar y Montaña (Sea and Mountain), a classic Catalan approach that pairs fresh seafood with meat on a single plate. It is a direct reflection of the region’s geography, where the Mediterranean meets the Pyrenees. Dishes change with the seasons, and the ingredient list leans heavily on Spanish imports while incorporating Japan’s finest produce.

The wine list, curated by sommelier Kensuke Hasegawa, is exclusively Spanish. It spans classical, traditional producers alongside modern, natural wines from younger vintners. Sherry, vermouth, and Spanish beer also feature prominently, all chosen to complement the nuanced flavors of the Spanish cuisine on offer.

MASIA’s recognition in the Michelin Guide for 2026 is a testament to Villaret’s focused vision: a restaurant that feels both deeply personal and rigorously executed. It is a place where the warmth of a Catalan farmhouse meets the precision of a Ginza dining room.