Fukuoka boasts an array of dining experiences, but few match the intricate beauty and culinary finesse of Chiso Nakamura. This two-star Michelin restaurant offers more than just a meal; it is a journey through Japanese culture, traditions, and artistry, all harmoniously wrapped up in the enchanting ambiance of Sukiya-zukuri architecture.
Established originally in Kitakyushu, Chiso Nakamura was already a celebrated name, but its relocation to Fukuoka in March 2016 marked a new chapter of innovation and excellence. The entrance greets visitors with mesmerizing seasonal decorations, a testament to the restaurant's unwavering dedication to details. Look around mid-meal, and you'll find that every nook and cranny of the restaurant echoes the changing seasons.
Kyoto architect Akira Sugihara has masterfully crafted the restaurant's space. As you make your way through the stone-paved pathway and enter the restaurant, it's as if you've transcended space and time, finding yourself in a Kyoto tea room. The meticulous use of materials like Juraku clay, stone pavements, and pillars epitomizes the restaurant's ethos – a mountain abode nestled in the heart of the city.
The dining experience itself is a masterpiece. The meal commences with a handwritten menu, a stroke of calligraphy artistry under the guidance of Reiko Kai. Each dish, whether it's an appetizer capturing the essence of the season or an entrée perfectly balancing dashi stock with seasonal produce, is an embodiment of Nakamura's philosophy – every element should shine, without one overshadowing the other.
Accompanying the food is an extensive collection of 250 to 300 different types of tableware, varying by season. From tea ceremony-inspired pieces to Mino and Kutani ware, every dish offers a sensory experience that intertwines taste with aesthetics.
With just 14 seats, including 7 at the counter and 2 private rooms, Chiso Nakamura offers an intimate and immersive experience. It stands as a beacon, preserving the intricate dance of kaiseki cuisine and traditional festivals, ensuring they remain vividly alive in the modern age.
