English
Nakamura
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/ Price RangeKyoto
Japanese: Kaiseki
Nakamura Description
Nakamura is a renowned Japanese restaurant located in Kyoto, Japan. This establishment has been recognized for its excellence in cuisine, receiving the prestigious Bronze Award from The Tabelog Awards in 2023. With a rating of 3.86 out of 5 stars and 96 reviews, Nakamura has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with over 11,775 people saving it as a must-visit restaurant.
What sets Nakamura apart is its commitment to preserving the traditional flavors of Kyoto cuisine. Stepping through the white noren curtain, guests are greeted by a serene atmosphere, with stone-paved paths that have been sprinkled with water, creating a sense of tranquility. The restaurant has a rich history, dating back to the cultural and political era of Bunka-Bunsei, where it began by transporting ingredients such as gujiya and mackerel from Wakasa to Kyoto via the Saba Kaido road, serving them to nobles and aristocrats. For six consecutive years, Nakamura has been awarded three Michelin stars, solidifying its status as a world-renowned dining destination.
At Nakamura, guests can indulge in the 'omakase' experience, allowing the chef to select and prepare a variety of seasonal delicacies. The menu showcases the mastery of traditional Kyoto flavors, with signature dishes such as 'guji no sakeyaki' (grilled salted tilefish) and 'shiro miso zoni' (white miso soup with rice cakes) representing the essence of Nakamura's culinary heritage. The attentive and personalized service ensures that each guest feels welcomed and cared for, creating a memorable dining experience.
In conclusion, Nakamura is a culinary gem in Kyoto, offering a taste of authentic Kyoto cuisine in a serene and elegant setting. With its rich history, commitment to tradition, and exceptional flavors, Nakamura stands out as a must-visit restaurant for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Japan.
What sets Nakamura apart is its commitment to preserving the traditional flavors of Kyoto cuisine. Stepping through the white noren curtain, guests are greeted by a serene atmosphere, with stone-paved paths that have been sprinkled with water, creating a sense of tranquility. The restaurant has a rich history, dating back to the cultural and political era of Bunka-Bunsei, where it began by transporting ingredients such as gujiya and mackerel from Wakasa to Kyoto via the Saba Kaido road, serving them to nobles and aristocrats. For six consecutive years, Nakamura has been awarded three Michelin stars, solidifying its status as a world-renowned dining destination.
At Nakamura, guests can indulge in the 'omakase' experience, allowing the chef to select and prepare a variety of seasonal delicacies. The menu showcases the mastery of traditional Kyoto flavors, with signature dishes such as 'guji no sakeyaki' (grilled salted tilefish) and 'shiro miso zoni' (white miso soup with rice cakes) representing the essence of Nakamura's culinary heritage. The attentive and personalized service ensures that each guest feels welcomed and cared for, creating a memorable dining experience.
In conclusion, Nakamura is a culinary gem in Kyoto, offering a taste of authentic Kyoto cuisine in a serene and elegant setting. With its rich history, commitment to tradition, and exceptional flavors, Nakamura stands out as a must-visit restaurant for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Japan.
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Nakamura Overview
Access
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5 minute walk from Miike Station (Subway)
15 minute walk from Sanjo Station (Keihan Kyoto Line)
Operating Hours
Sun: Closed
Mon: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Tue: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Wed: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Thur: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Fri: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Sat: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Mon: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Tue: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Wed: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Thur: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Fri: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Sat: 12:00PM-2:00PM, 5:00PM-7:30PM
Payment Methods
Cash, Visa, Master Card, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB
Restaurant Features
Reservations Accepted
Wine List
Family-friendly
Private Dining Room
Non-smoking
Sake Selection
Nakamura Reviews
Nakamura Google Average Rating
4.3
5
Google
The experience at Nakamura is excellent. We were welcomed at the door, and then lead into a series of corridors by two ladies impecably dressed in beautiful kimonos until we entered our own private room. Delicately decorated and simple in a very Japanese way.
The service was excellent at all times, yes they didn't have the best english in the world, but then again we are in Japan and I don't speak any Japanese so there.
The food was excellently presented, very well cooked and tasty, and as a restaurant it deserves praise for everything they do, the quality of the ingredients is excellent and every thing else is excellent as well.
My criticism is that even though every thing is excellent, it lacks a bit of spark, excitment and even daring touches. The elaborations and presentations just feel safe rather than pushing the envelope.
I have been lucky enough to have visited several Michelin starred restaurants throughout Europe and this was my first experience of them in Japan and even though I wasn't disappointed, it did lacked the extra wow factor.
It is deserving of its 3 stars for the quality of ingredients, expertly cooked, the amazing establishment itself and the extraordinary service but it risks losing a bit in the future if it doesn't start challenging itself.
The service was excellent at all times, yes they didn't have the best english in the world, but then again we are in Japan and I don't speak any Japanese so there.
The food was excellently presented, very well cooked and tasty, and as a restaurant it deserves praise for everything they do, the quality of the ingredients is excellent and every thing else is excellent as well.
My criticism is that even though every thing is excellent, it lacks a bit of spark, excitment and even daring touches. The elaborations and presentations just feel safe rather than pushing the envelope.
I have been lucky enough to have visited several Michelin starred restaurants throughout Europe and this was my first experience of them in Japan and even though I wasn't disappointed, it did lacked the extra wow factor.
It is deserving of its 3 stars for the quality of ingredients, expertly cooked, the amazing establishment itself and the extraordinary service but it risks losing a bit in the future if it doesn't start challenging itself.
5
Google
I have been eating Japanese food at various places for 30 years or more. After having lunch here, I really don't understand that one star review. Although our daughter and I did not like the mustard miso soup much, my wife loved it. It was a 2-hour lunch, with all sorts of very interesting things, some I had had before and some I had not. Everything was of the highest quality and gracefully served. Although the staff were operating in traditional old-time Japanese mode, they also spoke English and were quite friendly and willing to chat with us. As I told the chef when we left, I think he certainly deserves all of his Michelin stars.
5
Google
Every dish is beautifully and delicately presented. Service is top-notch: the staff was already at the porch welcoming us when we arrived and during lunch explained in detail what each dish was. Definitely an experience in and of itself.
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Explore the refined world of Japanese fine dining with our comparison of Kaiseki and Omakase. Uncover the artful presentation, seasonal focus, and cultural significance of these exquisite dining styles. Understand how Kaiseki provides a structured culinary journey, while Omakase delights with chef-driven surprises. Ideal for food enthusiasts keen to grasp the nuances of Japan's premier dining experiences.
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