With its opening in Nice, Le Yen invites guests to discover a refined vision of Japanese fusion cuisine, blending tradition, creativity and subtle Mediterranean influences. Located on boulevard Jean Jaurès, just steps from Place Masséna, the restaurant offers a warm and contemporary dining experience inspired by the spirit of travel and Asian hospitality.
A harmonious blend of modernity and tradition
From the moment you enter, Le Yen immerses visitors in a calm and elegant atmosphere. Light wood, black accents and stylized Asian elements such as Japanese lanterns and rice-paper fans create a balance between serenity and sophistication.
The space is thoughtfully designed with several ambiances: large communal tables, more intimate alcoves, a sushi counter and an open teppanyaki area that naturally draws the eye. The result is an environment that feels both lively and soothing, ideal for sharing and discovery.
Inspired by the Japanese izakaya tradition, Le Yen combines gastronomy and conviviality in a relaxed yet refined setting.
A globetrotting chef and a fusion-inspired menu
At the heart of Le Yen’s culinary identity is Chef Irfan Lesmana, originally from Bali. Trained in French cuisine and enriched by years of travel, he brings together Japanese techniques with influences from Thailand, Vietnam and the Mediterranean.
The menu speaks to both lovers of classic Japanese dishes and those eager to explore new flavors. Sushi, sashimi, maki, gyoza, yakisoba and ramen sit alongside more creative plates, where textures and seasonings are carefully balanced.
Precision on the plate and a touch of spectacle
Among the signature dishes, the ramen with anchovy tempura and soy-marinated soft-boiled egg, created exclusively for Nice, stands out for its surprising yet harmonious flavors. Other highlights include the “Crying Tiger” Black Angus beef fillet, the citrus-lacquered duck with sweet potato purée, and the revisited okonomiyaki, the famous Japanese “pizza,” enriched with cheese and bonito flakes.
Fresh herbs, Thai spices, edible flowers, locally sourced bluefin tuna and Scottish Label Rouge salmon reflect the care given to ingredients and preparation.
At the teppanyaki, cooking becomes a visual experience. On the hot plate, fish, meat and vegetables are seared with precise, almost choreographed movements, filling the room with enticing aromas.
A refined bar and delicate desserts
Le Yen’s bar completes the journey with a curated selection of Japanese whiskies, sakes and umeshus, alongside signature cocktails featuring yuzu, ginger and citrus notes. The Matcha Martini offers a smooth, vegetal elegance, while the Kaneki, made with Roku gin, delivers a fresher, more vibrant profile.
Desserts explore a Franco-Japanese sensibility: yuzu cheesecake, chocolate fondant with black sesame, ice-cream mochis and seasonal creations that favor balance and finesse over excess.
A special collaboration with Maison Kaviari
To celebrate its arrival in Nice, Le Yen introduces select creations developed in collaboration with Maison Kaviari. Caviar, bottarga and ikura subtly enhance dishes such as miso-yuzu glazed black cod, teriyaki salmon with salmon roe, and sea bass carpaccio with bottarga and satay powder.
Practical information
📍 Address: 54 boulevard Jean Jaurès, 06000 Nice
🕒 Opening hours: Daily from 12:00–2:00 pm and 7:00–11:00 pm (Friday and Saturday until 11:30 pm)
💶 Prices:
– Sushi platters: €25.50–70
– Ramen: €17–19.50
– Okonomiyaki: €14.80–18.50
– Main dishes: €23–39
– Desserts: €7–14
– Cocktails: €13
🚋 Access: Tram line 1 (Masséna), Masséna parking
📞 Contact: +33 4 97 14 89 52
Le Yen Nice offers an elegant escape where Japanese tradition meets global inspiration, inviting guests to enjoy a flavorful and immersive dining experience in the heart of the city.