April 17th marked the long-awaited opening of Mihoko’s 21grams, a Flatiron restaurant conceptualized by ballerina, philanthropist and renowned art collector and patron of the arts, Mihoko. Mihoko’s Franco-Japanese culture is reflected in the menu and the environment of the restaurant, a place where one will go to see people and be seen. Mihoko says, “I wanted to introduce people to true Franco-Japonaise cuisine, all while offering unmatched service and allowing my guests to experience the decadence of life in a 19th century French setting coupled with a truly sophisticated and progressive culinary experience.”

Executive Chef Robert Rubba’s menu includes such fusion dishes as Line-Caught Tuna “En Croute” with hibiscus, shiso and smoked chantilly, Foie Gras au torchon with rhubarb, vanilla, and roasted soy sable, and Normandy Duck with apple-miso, Brussels sprouts, pearl onion and albufera. The menu also includes a sushi bar, featuring the best of fresh fish and some ingenious combinations, such as Hamachi with black lime, cucumber, ume boshi and shiso and Blue Fin Tuna with tomato confit, black olive and fennel.

Drinks at Mihoko’s 21grams include specialty wines and sake, including the exclusive 21grams sake, imported specially from Japan for the restaurant. Of course, Mihoko’s artist’s eye paid full attention to the décor of the restaurant; with help from designer Bruno Borrione, Mihoko created an artistic space that includes etched glass murals from the Cartier Mansion, amongst other artifacts from Mihoko’s travels across the globe, some of which are available for sale at the restaurant. - Emily Monaco