Marie Akaneya is the kind of restaurant you would surely miss if you don’t know where to look. Tucked discreetly behind a sleek facade on a quiet Parisian street, its minimalist exterior gives no hint of the treasures inside. But step in, and you’re met with glowing charcoal grills, thoughtfully crafted details, and some of the best beef in Paris—featuring Matsusaka beef from Ito Ranch, one of the rarest and most sought-after cuts in the world.
Starting with Simplicity
Marie Akaneya only offers tasting menus, which begin with roasted edamame, smoky and salted just right, served over a small pot of charcoal to keep them warm. They were followed by a delicate bowl of miso soup with a perfectly tender scallop at the bottom. Alongside it came a slice of tonkatsu pork loin—golden, crisp, and juicy.
Next, Italian red shrimp arrived, meticulously cleaned, set in a bed of salt and ready for the grill. Grilling them over the glowing coals brought out a delicate balance of smokiness and sweetness, while the salt preserved their natural tenderness.
Wagyu and Matsusaka Beef Take the Stage
The beef courses began with Japanese Wagyu, presented in several cuts that highlighted its buttery texture and rich marbling. Each piece was cooked tableside over the blazing Japanese charcoal, its intense heat locking in the flavor and creating a light sear while keeping the meat impossibly tender.
As remarkable as the Wagyu was, the Matsusaka beef from Ito Ranch took things to another level. Brought out one cut at a time, it was a masterclass in why this beef is so prized. The texture was silken, and the flavor carried a depth and richness that felt indulgent without being heavy. Cooking it yourself gave you the chance to appreciate every detail, guided by the staff to ensure each slice reached its full potential.
Details That Matter
Marie Akaneya’s design mirrors the simplicity and thoughtfulness of its menu. The grill, burning with Japanese charcoal that reaches up to 1,000 degrees, is the centerpiece of each table. Cleverly placed cut-outs keep your water and sake chilled, so the heat of the grill doesn’t touch your drinks. The sake pairings were carefully chosen, each enhancing the flavors of the beef and shrimp without overpowering them.
Dessert was a perfect contrast to the richness of the meal: slices of Crown melon, a Japanese specialty renowned for its sweetness. With no embellishments, the melon’s flavor shone through, leaving us wishing for just one more slice. Even our son couldn’t get enough, proving that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most memorable.
Why Marie Akaneya Should Be on Your List
Marie Akaneya isn’t flashy, but it delivers what matters. The combination of Wagyu and Matsusaka beef, the focus on quality ingredients, and the simplicity of the grilling process all come together to create something remarkable. If you’re in Paris and looking for something truly special, this is the place to go—just make sure to book in advance.
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Marie Akaneya,12 Rue Godot de Mauroy, 75009 Paris, France
Note: Marie Akaneya provided support for the reporting of this story.