In July 2022, Chef Virgilio Martínez of the award-winning restaurant Central in Lima, Peru, opened his first overseas restaurant in Tokyo. Maz is headed by Martínez’s former creative chief Santiago Fernandez and honours the philosophy of its home base while indulging in the bounty of Japan’s landscapes.
Like the menu at Central, Maz’s tasting course is organised in altitudes, starting from sea-level and ascending. As one dives into the journey, the exquisite preparation of seafood dishes is as mesmerising as its sourcing, honouring the rich maritime traditions of both Japan and Peru.
Moving from sea to land, the menu transports patrons to the Andean highlands, exploring the vast range of tubers, herbs and grains that populate this region. In the course ‘Fresh Water’, Fernandez serves tuber yacon and dragon fruit as a side to grilled catfish.
Meanwhile, the 'Extreme Altitude' course catapults you 4,200 metres above sea level, with tender Wagyu beef that has been aged and gently smoked to be served with exotic herbs like huacatay. Here, the Japanese art of simplicity and the Peruvian celebration of earthiness come together. The potatoes are sourced from the cool, mountainous regions of Nagano and prepared using techniques perfected in the Andean plateaus, resulting in a feast that's beautifully balanced.
These ingredients, painstakingly sourced and thoughtfully combined, result in dishes that elevate the dining experience to new heights – quite literally.
Maz’s impressive dessert offerings descend closer to sea level. The Amazonian-inspired ‘750-meter’ dessert – a concoction of exotic Peruvian fruits like macambo and copoazu– is a perfect ending to this gastronomical ascent and descent.
To pair with these dishes, Maz offers an extensive selection of fine wines and inventive cocktails. The sommelier’s recommended pairings are thoughtfully selected to accentuate each course's unique flavours.
In essence, Maz is a fascinating embodiment of Virgilio Martínez's vision that beautifully weaves together Peruvian and Japanese culinary threads. The altitude-themed menu, guided by Fernandez’s innovative approach, strikes a perfect balance between homage and invention. Maz is more than just a dining destination – it's a culinary adventure that deserves to be experienced.