Housed in an Arcachon villa with blue shutters, set back from the waterfront, Ko Sometsuke offers a cohesive and distinctive blend of Chinese, Japanese, Khmer, and French influences. The décor—featuring woodblock prints, a wall of blue-and-white porcelain, and a courtyard shaded by an old grapevine—captivates from the moment you walk in. In the kitchen, that ambition is fully realized. The house-made dim sum, with its translucent wrappers and refined fillings, enhanced by a sesame sauce, are among the highlights. “Tiger’s Tears”—marinated beef with Khmer tamarind sauce—has a lively kick, while the tapioca with coconut milk and mango rounds out the meal on a fresh and simple note. The service is led by a dedicated server—the chef’s son—who is courteous and knowledgeable, explaining the dishes and attending to every guest despite the crowd. The wine list, short but carefully curated, showcases fine Bordeaux wines, complemented by a welcome selection of wines by the glass.