Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on October 2009

One of Tokyo’s best-loved Italian restaurants, Sabatini (13F Ibis Bldg, 7-14-4 Roppongi, Minato-ku; www.sabatini-roppongi.com) has just broadened its appeal by introducing a multi-course vegetarian dinner (one day advanced reservation required). The ¥5,200 prix fixe meal starts with a veggie-loaded antipasti platter followed by a hearty minestrone soup brimming with faro and orzo grains. The pasta dish is penne with pomodoro sauce and mushrooms, but the real star of the show is the entrée: Cotoletta di Cecci alla Milanese, or Milan-style cutlet made with chickpeas. Of course, carnivores are welcome as well—Sabatini’s veal Marsala, for instance, is the best we’ve had in Tokyo, and fresh fish dishes includes delights like insalata di Mare. Situated atop the iconic Hotel Ibis in central Roppongi, the restaurant offers sweeping views of the city skyline, with an unbeatable vista of Tokyo Tower. Lunch from 11:30am.