The Dish
‘Kaced x Matsuyama’ is a collection of individual culinary elements, presented on a plate specially designed and handmade by Lana to work in harmony with Sofiane’s food. Its rectangular shape is based on a traditional artist’s canvas, with warm white glazing adding colour to the food without overwhelming it. Lana’s plate mirrors forms found in and around the hotel, such as the light strips in the pavement in front of the studio and the scale-like ‘C’ motif found on the tiles in the Art Yard restaurant. Lana has gouged a groove in the plate to house the apple and cherry blossom sauce for the lamb, meanwhile, Sofiane has included edible flowers inspired by those in the restaurant’s courtyard and micro shiso leaves to mirror the harmonious and dynamic composition reminiscent of Lana’s paintings.
The mixing of the pair’s culinary heritage is demonstrated by, a courgette flower stuffed with creamy goats’ cheese deep fried in tempura batter, a classic Japanese preparation. The lamb, cooked in a traditional French manner, shuns the usual mint sauce accompaniment in favour of shiso oil, which references Japan. Its vivid green colour also acts as a contrast between the plate and the accompanying courgette.