Enjoy game for lunch near Hardy Barracks in Tokyo

gibier dish (Photo by Akiko Takamizawa, Stripes Japan)

There’s no denying that Tokyo’s food scene has a variety of options for even the pickiest of diners. But if you’re on the hunt for something a little different, Nishiazabu World Nature Farm is bringing some interesting meats to the ordinary dinner or lunch bunch menu.

The restaurant serves gibier, or game meat dishes, in one of Tokyo’s pricier residential neighborhoods. Gibier is pretty trendy in the Tokyo food industry these days, so why not give it a try.

In order to control the wild animal population to protect farmland and residents, the Japanese government is strict on game hunting. However, the number of hunters is increasing, and it means that markets and restaurants have more access to wild meats from deer, boars, bears and more. And consumers seeking high protein/low calorie foods are eating it up.

At Nishiazabu World Nature Farm, the owner and chef uses his experience in mushroom, honey, textile and ceramicware trading to run this unique dining experience.

If you’re interested in dipping your toes into wild game meat, or are a fan of it, the restaurant has reasonably priced lunch sets using boar, deer, or bear safely processed in Chiba Prefecture. Sample a lunch set of “hitsumabushi (sliced grilled meat that’s served on top of steamed rice, accompanied by assorted condiments and garnishes) of prime boar” for 2,500 yen ($17).

Besides the hitsumabushi, you can enjoy a couple of other lunch sets, such as “gibier plate of the day” for 1,500 yen and “gibier pasta of the day” for 1,300 yen. Ask the chef what game meat is used for the set for the day.

The restaurant also serves delicious Bhutanese coffee and herbal teas, which are a perfect way to cap a delicious gibier meal. Don’t miss your chance for a taste of the wild at Nishiazabu World Nature Farm.