Obicà relaunches its original Roppongi Hills location in May 2018 at nearby Hollywood Beauty Plaza, complete with a new style and menu. Starting in Rome back in 2004 when Naples-born founder Silvio Ursini opened the world's first 'Mozzarella Bar' of its kind, Obica quickly replicated its success on a global stage, with over 24 restaurant locations opened worldwide since.

Obica Japan's 2018 renewal introduces a new exclusive menu line-up thanks to Chef Alessandro Borghese. Incorporating a new range of simpler mozzarella plates perfect for sharing, the menu even adds Italy-imported ricotta cheese allowing customers to appreciate this new fresh, creamy Italian cheese variety alongside the classic favourite of Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP. Plates include an assortment of prosciutto, alongside two varieties of mozzarella—one a smoked, dried Affumicata di Bufala variety loaded with flavour—and ricotta cheese (¥2900~ for 40g), as well as Borghese's Zucchine alla Scapece creation serving mozzarella coated in courgette chips and pine nuts (¥1500). Mains include a full line-up of Italian classics like lasagne, ravioli and risotto, but the pizzas also deserve a special mention, prepared with stone-ground flour imported from Italy to produce a dough full of lightness and tasted, having been allowed to risen for 48 hours. With 10 varieties on offer, the Stracciatella (¥2900 – tomato, mozzarella, basil) and Tartufo (¥3600 – black truffles, mushroom, mozzarella) are well worth sampling. The evolving interior design builds on the classy, monotone style of the existing franchise whilst introducing a new direction based on natural materials such as wood evoking warmth and a welcoming atmosphere.
 

Getting there

Obicà is located just 1 minute's walk from Roppongi Station (Hibiya Line, Exit 1C).

by Tom Roseveare