Birthday Dinner in Tokyo

[et alors]

I arrive in Tokyo around 2 pm, and fly on to Bangkok the next evening (I get two days in Japan on the way back as well). I assume some jetlag, but if I did my math right, I should be in good shape for a committed dinner on Oct 22nd, my birthday. I will be dining alone. I am not particular about style of cuisine, just as long as it's marvelous.

What would you pick? (and any other bits of japan you would pack in?)

[prasantrin]

I'd go to Ryugin. Not because the food is so fantastic (it's damn good), but because the service is so personable. They're great with single diners, and since it's your birthday, it will help make your experience more enjoyable.

[sng sling]

I'd second Ryugin, but if you want something other than Japanese cuisine, Monna Lisa (French) in the Marunouchi Building is pretty spectacular. If you crave excellent Italian, you might try Piatto Suzuki in Azabu Juban.

[et alors]

Japanese sounds best, and Ryugin sounds fabulous, but I'm worried about getting in at this late date. any second choices (I'm staying in Ginza, if that helps... )

[prasantrin]

You'd probably have had a better chance a week ago when the first replies were made, but you could still try. Thursday nights aren't the most popular reservations, or they may have had a last minute cancellation.

You could also try tempura. There are a few high-end tempura places in the Ginza area. Ask your concierge to recommend one or do a search online (Chow has a very active community of high-end diners).

[Blether]

You could try Kawasho Soen on the Ginza side of Tsukiji - a pleasant 15-minute walk in this season.

http://r.gnavi.co.jp/fl/en/e349900/