THE ARTISAN TABLE・DEAN & DELUCA is an elegant food laboratory style restaurant. A property of WELCOME GROUP, renowned leaders in the deli style industry, THE ARTISAN TABLE・DEAN & DELUCA continues their exploration of modern lifestyle dining. The ARTISAN, a craftsman creator of food—from farmer to food preparer—provides the controlling concept that ensures both freshness and new food excitement.Following this idea, THE ARTISAN TABLE・DEAN & DELUCA brings in a “season chef” every three months, with menu changes every few weeks. A modern and lofty two story glass facade accentuates transparency and merges outdoor foliage with interior space. The framework concept, directed by Ms. Chinatsu Kambayashi of Studio Early Birds, is based on the query, ”What is EAT?” We try to profoundly elucidate this in terms of experience and aesthetic. The final plan germinated from an image sketch by furniture designer, Piet Hein Eek. With all this in mind, we have essentially created a glass box. This provides an invisible divide between the natural environment without and the organic materials within. On the first floor—where the à la carte cuisine is served—we utilise natural materials that connect clientele with the earth: soil wall coating, Japanese Kawara dried mud tile, black mortar and serpentine stone. Additionally, western furniture combined with modern Japanese style fittings and tableware identifies earth with Earth. Upon entering the restaurant, an elegant bar counter provides a waiting space to drink and relax. From there, a view of both the artisan kitchen and the expansive dining area. The clientele may also notice delightful details, such as a bracket light that conjures up fanciful images of naturally revealed buds and tree nuts. Additionally, an artful stream flows outside, with an open window running alongside. Tables and chairs are positioned and arranged to maximise the aesthetic and sensory effect. The natural delights continue with an outdoors deck providing the opportunity for al fresco dining. The second floor—where course meals and a wine pairing service are offered—is similarly presented, with the addition of a chef's VIP table, allowing the shared experience of both cooking and conversation. Finally, the goal is to redefine cuisine for the future while showing a timeless respect and appreciation of nature and the nature of food. In the planning period of THE ARTISAN TABLE・DEAN & DELUCA, it was the artisan who took the leading role. And it is the artisan who provides a superlative dining experience. From the farmer to the chef—and all the staff who take pride in the work they do—it is the artisan who both wins our respect and delights clientele. We hope the background story of this project provides added pleasure when next you visit THE ARTISAN TABLE・DEAN & DELUCA.