Braving the Ebisu Heat for a Slice of Heaven at Pizza Marumo
That day in Tokyo felt like the rainy season had abruptly ended, replaced by a sweltering heatwave. The thermometer read 34°C (93°F), but the asphalt radiated an intensity that made it feel closer to 39°C (102°F). After a morning meeting, I found myself navigating the streets of Ebisu, wiping away perspiration, my anticipation building. Today’s lunch was special: a reservation at Pizza Marumo. This name might ring a bell for food connoisseurs. Indeed, their “Umami Pizza” was spectacularly ranked 3rd in Time Out magazine’s “The 19 best pizzas in the world.” My expectations were, understandably, sky-high.
Upon arrival, the first thing that caught my eye was the stylish. It wasn’t ostentatious, but its refined presence immediately signaled quality. The entrance was slightly set back, and I passed through a white *noren* (curtain) into the restaurant. This hideaway-like approach added to the charm.
Reservations Essential! A Buzzing Open Kitchen
Inside, the counter seats encircling the kitchen were a prominent feature. Watching the chefs’ skillful movements up close is the best kind of culinary entertainment, whetting the appetite. We were guided to a table, but the entire place was packed. Even the empty seats seemed to be reserved. There were even customers waiting, though at some point, the staff had to start turning people away. I quickly realized that reservations are absolutely essential, even for a weekday lunch.
Despite the bustling energy, there was a calm, sophisticated atmosphere. My digital marketing brain often analyzes user experience, and this spatial design was impeccable. Every guest seemed visibly excited for the gastronomic journey ahead.
A Gem of a Pizza Menu and Delightful Surprises
Once seated, I eagerly perused the Pizza Marumo menu. Everything looked incredibly tempting, making it hard to choose. The words “Japanese Umami,” describing the renowned “Umami Pizza,” seemed to sparkle on the page. This was it, the taste acclaimed by the world.
While the appetizer menu also listed enticing options, today was all about the pizza. We asked the staff for recommendations, and they suggested the “Margherita and Marinara Half & Half,” and, of course, the “Umami Pizza.” We didn’t hesitate to order both. To get some fresh greens, we also requested the S-size “marumo SALADA.”
Warming Up with an Exquisite Salad
The first to arrive was the “marumo SALADA.” I was astonished by its generous portion, despite being an S-size. It was packed with colorful, fresh vegetables, offering a delightful crisp texture. The light vinaigrette and oil dressing was refreshing, and the sweet raisins provided a perfect accent. The deliciousness of this salad further heightened my anticipation for the pizzas. As the saying goes, “A restaurant with a great salad rarely disappoints,” and I was confident this held true.
The Pizza Feast: A Symphony of Classic and Innovation
And then, the stars of the show arrived. When we ordered, the staff kindly asked if we’d like the pizzas served one at a time. However, unable to contain our excitement, we asked for them together. Before us lay the beautiful “Margherita and Marinara Half & Half” and the famed “Umami Pizza.”
I started with the Marinara from the half & half. The harmony of tomato acidity, garlic punch, basil fragrance, and oregano was simply divine. Simple, yet profoundly flavorful, it made me sigh with satisfaction. Next, the Margherita. The rich umami of the mozzarella cheese filled my mouth, and the classic combination with tomato sauce and basil was a testament to timeless deliciousness. Tasting these two alone made it clear why Pizza Marumo is a top Ebisu pizza recommendation. Honestly, I was already planning a return visit.
An Encounter with the World-Renowned “Umami Pizza”
Finally, the moment of truth: the “Umami Pizza.” Its appearance alone was unique, topped with dried mackerel. The first bite was a revelation. The distinct umami of the mackerel fat spread through my mouth, with absolutely no fishiness. This was a taste I’d never experienced before. Japanese ingredients like bonito flakes, kelp, green onions, and sesame seeds masterfully harmonized the pizza dough and the dried mackerel. A touch of soy sauce seemed to tie all the flavors together, while dried shiitake mushrooms added depth of umami. And here too, the mozzarella played its part beautifully. It was, quite simply, incredible. I devoured it in no time.
The dough at Pizza Marumo is exceptional. The crust is fluffy and fragrant, while the center is perfectly textured – not too crispy, but with a satisfying chew. This dough is undoubtedly why one can keep eating slice after slice. If I’d been hungrier, I could have easily eaten 1.5, or even 2 pizzas by myself.
As I savored the pizza, Jay-Z and Kanye West’s “Murder To Excellence” started playing in the background. The hip-hop rhythm seemed to amplify the deliciousness of the pizza. Such details showcase the restaurant’s impeccable taste.
The Off-Menu Dessert Experience: A Sweet Secret
With afternoon work commitments, I reluctantly prepared to leave. Just then, a staff member approached. “We have some off-menu desserts today, would you be interested?” Tiramisu, Cheesecake, and Affogato were the offerings. The magic of “off-menu,” coupled with the allure of Tiramisu and Cheesecake, was irresistible. Of course, we had to try them.
Sesame-Scented Cheesecake for the Adult Palate
First came the cheesecake. It was generously topped with black and white sesame seeds and served with a crispy sesame biscuit. The subtly sweet cheesecake paired wonderfully with the nutty aroma of the sesame. The rich flavor and texture that filled my mouth made it a sophisticated dessert, perfect for an adult palate.
Fluffy Tiramisu with a Hidden Rich Chocolate Sponge
Next was the Tiramisu. Pistachios scattered on top added a splash of color and a delightful crunch. But the real surprise lay beneath the fluffy mascarpone cream: a moist, rich dark chocolate sponge. This contrasted beautifully with the less sweet mascarpone, creating a complex and deeply satisfying flavor. The quality, right down to the last bite, never failed to impress.
Warm Hospitality and a Vow to Return
Lunch at Pizza Marumo was more than just eating delicious pizza; it was an experience. The staff were always smiling, kindly checking in on us several times, allowing us to relax and enjoy our meal thoroughly. Beyond the exceptional quality of the food, this warm hospitality is surely another reason why this establishment is so beloved.
The ranking in “Time Out world’s best pizza” is well-deserved. The “Umami Pizza,” in particular, is a unique masterpiece you can only savor here. Discovering that mackerel pizza could be this delicious was a delightful revelation. For those seeking a stylish lunch in Ebisu or the ultimate pizza experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Pizza Marumo. Next time, I plan to enjoy these marvelous pizzas and desserts with a beer or sparkling wine. Reservations are a must, but it’s absolutely worth it. It was a truly memorable meal!
Official Website: https://pizza-marumo.com/
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