A Wine Bistro Haven, Pont du Gard, in Shintomi-cho
Learning about their closure brought sadness to us, as we cherished wonderful memories from our times at this restaurant. Please find more restaurants in Tokyo.
One weekend in Tokyo, we stumbled into the cozy French bistro in Shintomi-cho, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Ginza area. This unassuming spot, called Pont du Gard, felt like stepping through a portal straight into France for an evening. It wasn’t just any ordinary night out; it turned into a remarkable gathering with our close friend, making the experience even more special. The restaurant is located just a three-minute walk from the Shintomi Station of the Yurakucho Line.
When we opened the door, we were surprised at how small the restaurant was, but it was comfortable once you were seated. Despite its small size, the space exuded a cozy and friendly vibe—the kind of place where the staff go out of their way to learn your name before you say goodbye. The ambiance struck the perfect balance for a laid-back evening, ideal for catching up, swapping stories, and simply savoring the company of good friends.
What really stood out at Pont du Gard was the selection of wines. They offer a variety that is both high-quality and reasonably priced, encouraging us to try different bottles without a second thought. The wines were meticulously chosen to complement the menu, enhancing our dining experience by leaps and bounds. We kicked off the evening with a crisp glass of champagne and later moved on to a delicate white and a robust red. The prices were fair, and the staff’s recommendations never missed the mark, turning each choice into a delightful discovery.
The menu was a tribute to the culinary style of southern France, with dishes that emphasized high-quality, fresh ingredients that captured the authentic flavors of the region. We started with a range of appetizers—crisp vegetables, a selection of fine cheeses, and expertly prepared seafood, each dish setting a high bar for what was to come.
The main courses continued to impress. We had a variety of options to choose from, including perfectly grilled meats and exquisitely seasoned seafood. Each dish was crafted with precision, making every bite savory and memorable. It felt as if each plate brought a piece of a quaint French village to our table in Tokyo.
The staff at Pont du Gard deserved special recognition. Not only were they knowledgeable about both the wine and the food, but their friendly and attentive service made our evening all the more enjoyable. They were always ready to share their recommendations and insights, which helped us make perfect pairings with our meals.
But Pont du Gard isn’t just about food and wine; it’s about the entire experience. It’s a place where you feel connected and engaged, whether you’re planning a quiet dinner or looking to enjoy a lively evening with friends. By the time we left, we felt as though we had taken a brief but beautiful journey to France, refreshed by the excellent food, superb wine, and the warm company of friends.
More than just the culinary delights, it was the laughter and shared moments that lingered with us the longest. This little French corner in Tokyo proves that you don’t need to travel far to experience something truly special. If you’re ever in the area and in the mood for a cozy spot with fantastic food and wine, Pont du Gard is definitely worth a visit. It transformed our regular evening into something truly memorable, leaving us excited about when we could come back.
Overall, Pont du Gard is a must-visit for anyone looking to spend quality time in a relaxed and friendly setting. It made our evening stand out, transforming it into a night that we’ll all remember for a long time. If you find yourself near Ginza and in the mood for a French culinary escape, make sure to stop by Pont du Gard.