The beauty of the seasons is in their ephemeral nature, which makes experiencing them before they are swept away by the winds of change even more precious. The same can be said of the dishes inspired and crafted from each season’s ingredients.

COLK is an intimate Japanese-French restaurant that strives for culinary creativity using the best and freshest ingredients from Ibaraki.

Its menu changes three times a year, in line with the four seasons, and whenever the restaurant can acquire exceptionally good-quality components that warrant a special change.

COLK’s interior is spacious yet intimate, much like dining in someone’s extended dining room. The wood and brick theme lends it a modern flair, and the generous amount of sunlight seeping through the dining hall makes COLK a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch. I imagine it’s quite an intimate spot for couples come nightfall.

A multi-course meal starts from ¥3,800 for five courses. But, if you’re in the mood to indulge, why not go for the Chef’s Recommended Course (¥11,000)? Consisting of 10 dishes, including amuse, appetisers, soup, fish and meat dishes, and dessert, the Chef’s Recommended Course spans a little over two and a half hours, perfect if you have an entire afternoon to kill.

Here’s what was served when we visited:

Highlights include Mushrooms and Parma Ham, Spear Squid with White Asparagus, and Roast Beef, which is supposedly one of COLK’s signature items. I loved how elegantly all the ingredients and flavours were interwoven on each plate, with simple, yet captivating arrangements. Every bite of meat yielded melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, with the Roast Beef bringing the lineup of savoury dishes to a satisfying, triumphant end.

I like that the desserts are not overly heavy, as though taking into consideration the fullness of most diners by the end of the meal. The Strawberry and Milk is going on my list of top most favourite plated desserts. While the Petit Fours packed just the right amount of sweetness and richness.

I had an enjoyable time at COLK, and I do recommend it if you’re in the mood for something classy and indulgent with a European flair. It certainly was a nice change from the typical kaiseki experience! Do take note of their closure days which are released on their website before each month.

Check out my Ibaraki food and travel guide!

Address:447-1 Kasaharacho, Mito, Ibaraki 310-0852, Japan
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Opening Hours:
Wednesday to Sunday: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6 – 10pm
Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Contact: +81 29 239 5502

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