Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Kyoto

Kenya is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Kyoto, known for its modern Japanese cuisine that blends traditional techniques with innovative ideas. The chef, Kenya Sakai, emphasizes using seasonal ingredients to create a well-defined course menu. The restaurant offers a warm atmosphere with counter seating and plays curated music to enhance the dining experience. Reviews highlight the quality of the food and the welcoming ambiance.

Kenya: Modern Japanese Dining Experience in Kyoto Sakyo Ward 

Nestled in the serene Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, Kenya offers an exquisite journey into modern Japanese cuisine that beautifully balances tradition and creativity. This intimate restaurant, located on the first floor of a quiet building near Okazaki Tokuseichō, invites diners to indulge in an omakase course that showcases about ten carefully curated seasonal dishes. Each plate reflects chef Kenno Sakai's dedication to highlighting the freshest ingredients while pushing the boundaries of classic Japanese flavors with subtle innovative touches.

Intimate Ambiance and Personalized Service

Kenya’s charm lies in its cozy setting, featuring only eight counter seats that provide an exclusive and engaging dining experience. Guests can watch the culinary artistry unfold right before their eyes, creating a connection between chef, staff, and diner that elevates the meal beyond just food. The atmosphere is peaceful and refined, complemented by carefully selected background music that changes with each dish, enhancing the sensory delight of the evening.

The omakase menu is a thoughtful progression of dishes that celebrate seasonal flavors with sophistication and flair. For example, guests may enjoy delicacies such as mullet roe paired with white radish, grilled sweetfish with accompanying pickled cucumber that cleanses the palate, and a signature dish of honey-drizzled Cantonese-style barbecued pork. The chef's innovative blending of Japanese and subtle Chinese culinary techniques results in a dining adventure that is memorable and unique.

Every aspect of the service is carefully orchestrated to feel natural and welcoming. From the warm greeting by Chef Sakai and his team to the seamless flow of courses and personalized attention, Kenya ensures guests feel valued and relaxed. The establishment is non-smoking and accepts credit cards, making for a comfortable and convenient experience.

Kenya has garnered positive acclaim for its dedication to seasonal ingredients and skillful modern Japanese cuisine. While the restaurant’s creative dishes may challenge traditional expectations, many diners praise the sophisticated flavors, meticulous presentation, and the chef’s sincere hospitality. Due to its limited seating and popularity, reservations are highly recommended to secure your place at this coveted dining spot. An English menu is available, ensuring accessibility for international guests.

What is the price of the omakase course at Kenya?

 The omakase course is priced at 22,000 yen, tax included.

Is smoking allowed inside the restaurant?

 No, Kenya is a non-smoking establishment.

Do I need to make a reservation to dine at Kenya?

Is there an English menu available at Kenya?

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, **Kenno** offers a unique dining experience that transcends traditional Japanese cuisine. This Michelin-starred restaurant, located in a discreet building near Heian Shrine, is helmed by the talented chef Kenno Sakai, who artfully blends modern techniques with classic flavors. The ambiance is intimate, with only eight seats available, allowing for personalized service and a captivating culinary journey.

At Kenno, each dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted to delight the senses. Two standout offerings include the **Fried Spanish Mackerel**, served with a side of seasonal vegetables, and the **Clay Pot Rice**, which is prepared fresh and offers a comforting, hearty flavor. The mackerel is perfectly crispy, while the rice is infused with rich umami, creating a symphony of tastes that reflect the essence of Kyoto.

Deep Fried Eggplant with Freshly Cooked Rice

Sweet Sea Bream and Matsutake Mushroom Soup

One of the most enchanting aspects of Kenno is the experience itself. The restaurant features a unique soundtrack that changes with each course, enhancing the dining experience and creating a delightful atmosphere. Chef Sakai's commitment to excellence is evident not only in the food but also in the service, as he personally greets each guest, ensuring a warm and inviting environment.

: Kenno is renowned for its innovative approach to Japanese cuisine, combining traditional flavors with modern techniques.

: The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients and exceptional service.

: Kenno is conveniently located near Heian Shrine, making it a perfect stop after exploring the beautiful gardens.

Embark on a culinary adventure at Kenno, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and artistry. Whether you are a local or a traveler, this restaurant promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3eU1fSnJnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe2nM1mAJAWAR1KELEZh5Cz8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3eU1fSnJnRRAB

京都ミシュラン店。
大変期待してお伺いしましたが、他のお客様には分かりませんが私の口にはちょっと、、、、。
コースの内容ですが、私の意見が合っているかは分かりませんが創作意欲が高すぎて和食なのか中華なのか迷走しているような気がします。
王道の和食を楽しみにされているお客様方にはおすすめしません。
女性スタッフさんの接客も、、、、非常に残念でした。
予約困難店というところも、常連様の方々に助けられているのではないでしょうか。
まだまだ進化途中というイメージでした。
ご馳走様でした。

Kyoto Michelin store.
I came here with high expectations, but I don't know about the other customers, but it was a bit off-putting for me...
As for the content of the course, I don't know if my opinion is correct, but I feel like the creative spirit is so high that I'm confused as to whether it's Japanese food or Chinese food.
We do not recommend it to customers who are looking forward to classic Japanese cuisine.
The customer service of the female staff was also very disappointing.
Even though it is difficult to make reservations, I think our regular customers are helping us.
I had the impression that it was still evolving.
Thank you for the meal.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNUcV96em5nRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe2nM1mAJAWAR1KELEZh5Cz8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNUcV96em5nRRAB

JALの機内食の監修もされている、料理人の酒井さんは、とても誠実なお人柄で、全てのお客さんに丁寧な接客をされていらっしゃいました。 どの料理も素材・見栄え・味ともに素晴らしかったです。 食事に合わせてBGMが変わり、デザートの時に、『君たちキウイ・パパイヤ・マンゴーだね』が流れた時は、思わずクスッとしてしまいました。 最後の2曲が、聖子さんと百恵さんだったのも嬉しかったです。 次回は、是非、明菜さんも宜しくお願いします！ 強行軍で京都迄行った甲斐がありました。

The chef, Mr. Sakai, who also supervises JAL's in-flight meals, has a very sincere personality and served all customers with great care. All the dishes were wonderful in terms of ingredients, presentation, and taste. The background music changes to match the meal, and when the song ``You're Kiwi, Papaya, and Mango'' was played during dessert, I couldn't help but chuckle. I was also happy that the last two songs were Seiko-san and Momoe-san. Next time, please visit Akina-san as well! The forced march to Kyoto was worth it.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqOWZUdEVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe2nM1mAJAWAR1KELEZh5Cz8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqOWZUdEVREAE

「研野」位於東大路，川端警察局附近的一處低調民宅。不知何故，今日營業時間延至8:00（與平常營業時間相異）。抵達時7:50 ，門口已有兩人在等待，不到一會兒，主廚（也是店主）酒井研野先生親自出來掛上暖簾，招呼我們進去。

進門之後，撲鼻而來的是我熟悉的松榮堂薰香「二条」。香氣暗藏玄機，因為這家店其實就在二条附近，店內放著是舒伯特的鱒魚五重奏，給人一種歡快輕鬆的氣氛。才剛坐定點了酒，一瞬間食客全部到齊。板前。總共只有八個位子。

酒井研野先生是天才型料理人。他今年3 4歲，青森人，水瓶座。19歲進入蟬聯多年米三的「菊乃井」研修，在總店工作了8年。27歲就任「菊乃井 無碍山房」的料理長。29歲離開「菊乃井」企業，陸續任職於紐約的「Shoji at 69 Leonard Street」、京都的「LURRA°」（我的愛店）、「京、靜華」。2021年，31歲，在京都創立自己的餐廳「研野」，以「發揚現代日本的料理」為主題，致力追求日本料理界的認同。

「研野」獲得「Best Chef & Restaurant 2021-2022獎」，2023年，獲得米其林一星。另外，他最為人津津樂道的是他創作的多樣料理連續多年獲得RED U-35（挖掘日本年輕主廚的比賽）最優獎。

小店裡，除了主廚，就是他的太太，以及二廚和一個小助手。看過本貓多年來探索京都料亭的朋友應該早就發現，在板前用餐，除了進食本身，整個過程有意識無意識地被塑造成一場秀。今晚，可說是氣氛輕鬆功夫到位充滿趣味的一場秀。根據網路上的資料，研野先生很擅長結合京都和中華料理的手法。另外，很特別的是，我發現他上菜，有配樂！

還有一點值得一提的是，「研野」不提供任何形式的文字菜單、酒單。全部用言語溝通（今天全部用講日文，但我相信他的英文不錯。）

關於結合中菜技法，第二道一上就看烏魚子和白蘿蔔的黃金組合，奇妙的是烏魚子沒有腥味。而那個像粽子的東西，裡面包的是鱧魚握壽司，吸附了滿嘴的竹葉香氣。這種創意太合胃口。黃瓜卷紅魽也非常的驚艷，有黃瓜的脆甜，卻沒有黃瓜的瓜味，和軟嫩的魚肉口感互補。

很有趣的是，今天有廣式叉燒！上桌的時候，研野露出調皮的微笑，像孩子般做誇張的表情，說「叉燒來了！叉燒來了！」而那刻放的音樂，居然是粵語版的「夜來香」，我說，是夜來香耶，研野先生居然笑著說用很標準的中文說：「是夜來香！」然後問我是從香港來的嗎？我說是台灣。好，我再度成為京都料亭板前唯一的台灣代表。說回叉燒，上桌前淋上蜂蜜，調味偏甜，肥瘦參半。配菜居然是法國葉嬤嬤教我做過的多汁烤大蘑菇。我心裡默默許願，如果有白飯就好了！

而活生生的小香魚被串起來準備去烤的時候，還活蹦亂跳，音響播的竟然是李斯特的鋼琴曲「鐘」，那小尾巴可不像是快速的上下的黑白琴鍵嗎！烤出來的小香魚，層次非常豐富，從魚頭入口，香脆之餘，一開始是從膽囊蹦出來的苦味，而米醋醃黃瓜適時接著洗掉苦味，讓味覺可以再繼續感受剩下的海味和香氣。

最後不例外，來了一鍋吻仔魚蔬菜炊飯，搭配上西京燒真鯛。主廚在攪拌炊飯時配樂是威風凜凜進行曲，好威！我不禁笑了，憋笑到有點內傷。我們水瓶座的腦子就是長得不一樣。其他食客都是日本人，好淡定，不知有無發現這巧思。還有，研野太太居然端出一鍋白飯，問大家要不要配著叉燒吃！你說他們是不是有讀心術？！

最後的甜點，是用草莓做的蕨餅麻糬和新鮮草莓，最後配上深焙咖啡和黃豆粉做的小軟糖，美味時髦，音樂也適時傳來松田聖子的「Sweet Memories 」。

研野先生和太太（也是料理人）以及二廚合作無間，每一步看似特意安排，卻不讓人覺得壓迫。上菜順序非常流暢，適度聊天，卻又非常莊重。冷素麵（就是麵線），是用很清爽的高湯，加上切得薄透的桔類下去調製，私心認為可以學起來回家自己做。

因為全員套餐都一樣，一起開始一起結束。又像是一場成功的團體心理治療，身心舒暢。

"Kenno" is located in a low-key private house on Dongdao Road, near Kawabata Police Station. For some unknown reason, today's business hours have been extended to 8:00 (different from normal business hours). When we arrived at 7:50, there were already two people waiting at the door. Within a short while, the chef (and owner) Mr. Sakai Kenno came out in person to hang up the curtains and invited us in.

After entering the door, the familiar Shoeido incense "Nijo" hits my nostrils. The aroma hides a mystery, because this store is actually near Nijo, and there is Schubert's Trout Quintet in the store, giving it a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere. Just as we sat down and ordered our drinks, all the diners arrived in an instant. Itamae. There are only eight seats in total.

Mr. Kenno Sakai is a talented cook. He is 34 years old, a native of Aomori, and an Aquarius. At the age of 19, he entered the training program of "Kikunoi", which has been ranked the third best for many years, and worked at the main store for 8 years. At the age of 27, he became the head chef of "Kunoi Muzanbo". He left the "Kunoi" company at the age of 29 and worked successively at "Shoji at 69 Leonard Street" in New York, "LURRA°" (my favorite store) in Kyoto, and "Kyo Shizuka". In 2021, at the age of 31, he founded his own restaurant "Kenno" in Kyoto, with the theme of "promoting modern Japanese cuisine" and is committed to pursuing recognition in the Japanese cuisine industry.

"Yanye" won the "Best Chef & Restaurant 2021-2022 Award" and in 2023, received one Michelin star. In addition, what is most talked about is that his various dishes have won the RED U-35 (a competition to discover young Japanese chefs) Grand Prize for many years in a row.

In the small shop, apart from the chef, there are his wife, the second chef and an assistant. Friends who have watched this cat explore Kyoto ryotei over the years should have discovered that when dining in Itamae, apart from the eating itself, the entire process is consciously or unconsciously shaped into a show. Tonight, it can be said that it is a show with a relaxed atmosphere, good kung fu and full of fun. According to information on the Internet, Mr. Kenno is very good at combining Kyoto and Chinese cuisine. In addition, what is very special is that I found that he served the food with a soundtrack!

Another point worth mentioning is that "Yanye" does not provide any form of text menu or wine list. All communication is done verbally (all in Japanese today, but I believe his English is pretty good.)

Regarding the combination of Chinese cooking techniques, the second dish is the golden combination of mullet roe and white radish. The amazing thing is that mullet roe has no fishy smell. And the thing that looks like a rice dumpling is filled with snakehead nigiri sushi, which absorbs the aroma of bamboo leaves in your mouth. This idea is so palatable. The red dumplings rolled with cucumber are also very amazing. It has the crunch and sweetness of cucumber, but without the melon flavor of cucumber, which complements the texture of the soft and tender fish meat.

Interestingly enough, there is Cantonese style barbecued pork today! When it was served, Yanye showed a naughty smile, made exaggerated expressions like a child, and said, "The barbecued pork is here! The barbecued pork is here!" And the music playing at that moment was actually the Cantonese version of "Tuberose", I said , it’s tuberose. Mr. Yanye actually smiled and said in very standard Chinese: “It’s tuberose!” and then asked me if I’m from Hong Kong? I said Taiwan. Well, I am once again the only Taiwanese representative in Kyoto Ryotei Itamae. Speaking of barbecued pork, honey is drizzled on it before serving. The seasoning is sweet, with a mixture of fat and leanness. The side dish turned out to be the juicy grilled mushrooms that Grandma Ye taught me to make in France. I silently made a wish in my heart, it would be great if I had white rice!

And when the live sweetfish was skewered and ready to be grilled, it was still jumping around. The sound playing on the stereo was Liszt's piano music "Bell", and the little tail didn't look like a black and white piano key moving up and down quickly! The grilled sweet fish is very rich in layers. From the fish head, it is crispy and has a bitter taste coming from the gallbladder at first. The pickled cucumbers with rice vinegar wash away the bitter taste in time, allowing the taste buds to continue to experience the rest. Sea flavor and aroma.

Finally, there was no exception. I had a pot of squid and vegetable rice, paired with Saikyo-roasted real sea bream. The chef is stirring the rice while the soundtrack is majestic marching music, so majestic! I couldn't help but laugh, and it hurt me to hold back my laughter. Our Aquarius brains just look different. The other diners are all Japanese, so calm. I wonder if they noticed this ingenuity. Also, Mrs. Yanno actually brought out a pot of rice and asked everyone if they wanted to eat it with barbecued pork! Do you think they can read minds? !

The final dessert was warabi mochi made with strawberries and fresh strawberries, and was topped with dark roasted coffee and small fudge made from soybean powder. It was delicious and trendy, and the music was "Sweet Memories" by Seiko Matsuda at the right time.

Mr. Kenno, his wife (who is also the cook), and the second chef work seamlessly together. Every step seems to be specially arranged, but it does not feel oppressive. The food order was very smooth, moderately chatty, but very dignified. Cold somen (noodles) are made with a very refreshing broth and thinly sliced ​​oranges. I thought I could learn how to make it at home.

Because the package is the same for all members, they start and end together. It's like a successful group psychotherapy, where you feel relaxed physically and mentally.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURaaUtLMTZ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe2nM1mAJAWAR1KELEZh5Cz8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURaaUtLMTZ3RRAB

ずーっと楽しみにしていた昨日の晩ごはん、平安神宮近くの超予約困難店『日本料理 研野』さんの貸切会に念願叶って連れていって頂きました(´∀｀)

京都駅からバスでコトコト北向きに、通り過ぎてしまうくらい景観にマッチした“ひっそり”とした佇まいですが、扉を開けるとお出迎えしてくれる“和”の雰囲気と青森ご出身の若き店主さん、和食の概念にとらわれ無い絶品コースのセットリストはこちら♡

・茄子の揚げ浸し〜食前炊き立てご飯〜
・紹興酒漬けのお漬物
・チャーシューとエビ芋の唐揚げ
・かますとセロリの南蛮漬け〜トマトジュレ〜
・明石の真鯛
・甘鯛と松茸のお吸い物
・お口直しの秋のフルーツ〜いちぢくと柿〜
・サワラのフライ
・飛騨のなめこと菊菜と菊花のおひたし
・炊き立て土鍋ご飯〜３種のおばんざい〜
・味噌漬け鮭といくらの親子丼
・チャーシューの親子丼
・真鯛漬け納豆醤油ごはん
・へしこ茶漬け
・冷やし月見うどん
・紅茶ゼリーとフルーツのソルベ
・すはまとコーヒー

上記のコースに合わせていただくお酒とBGMはおまかせなペアリング、土鍋で炊かれた白ごはんの開封時にはすっかり研野さんファンになっている自分に乾杯です(*´Д｀*)笑

どれをいただいても手抜かりなくそして満足感に比べると“お値段以上”な内容♡

本当に幸せな時間を過ごすことができました！

予約が難しいのはわかっておりますがどうしてもこちらのお店も再訪をお願いしたいです。。。

Last night's dinner, which I had been looking forward to for a long time, my wish came true and I was taken to a private party at "Japanese Cuisine Kenno", a restaurant near Heian Shrine that is extremely difficult to reserve (´∀｀)

It's a ``quiet'' building that matches the scenery so well that you can easily walk past it by bus from Kyoto Station, but when you open the door, you'll be greeted with a ``Japanese'' atmosphere and a young owner from Aomori, offering Japanese cuisine. Click here for the set list of exquisite courses that are not bound by the concept of ♡

・Deep fried eggplant ~Pre-meal freshly cooked rice~
・Pickles marinated in Shaoxing wine
・Fried pork and shrimp
・Kamasu and celery pickled in Nanban ~Tomato jelly~
・Akashi red sea bream
・ Sweet sea bream and matsutake mushroom soup
・Autumn fruits to cleanse your palate: figs and persimmons
・Fried Spanish mackerel
・Hida Nameko, Kikuna and Chrysanthemum Ohitashi
・Freshly cooked clay pot rice ~3 types of obanzai~
・Oyakodon with miso-marinated salmon and salmon roe
・Charshu oyakodon
・Sea bream pickled natto soy sauce rice
・Heshiko Chazuke
・Chilled Tsukimi Udon
・Tea jelly and fruit sorbet
・Suhamato Coffee

The alcohol and BGM that go with the above courses are a perfect pairing, and by the time I open the box of white rice cooked in an earthenware pot, I'm toasting to myself that I've become a fan of Mr. Kenno (*´Д｀*) lol

No matter which one you get, you won't be disappointed, and the content is "more than worth it" when compared to the satisfaction you get ♡

We had a really happy time!

I know that it is difficult to make reservations, but I would like you to visit this restaurant again. . .

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNaellqNTVRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJe2nM1mAJAWAR1KELEZh5Cz8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNaellqNTVRRRAB

日本料理 研野
⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯
京都の人気日本料理屋さん♡
前からずっと行きたかったお店を
やっといけましたぁ～～
めっちゃ感謝︎💕︎

⋯
まずは1品1品から音楽が変わります🎶
なぜか料理によってダジャレこみで笑笑
しかし料理は本気でこのギャップがたまらん！
店構えはバリバリだけどお客さんとの距離を
縮めるにはもってこいです(笑)
⋯
鮎の冷汁みたいなんからスタート！
次に自家製チャーシュー♪♪
蛸のジュレがけ
メバル刺身、
どれもこれもおかわりしたくなる味(^^)/
素晴らしい味つけです、
⋯
椀物に焼き魚
そしてトウモロコシの春巻き？
神美味でやんした~~~
そしてオクラにバリ美味の牡蠣フライが
タルタルソースがバチ美味やねん😋
⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯
次に〆のパレードが始まりました🤗
いままで食べた土鍋の白ご飯では
1番かもしれません、それをつかって
しらすご飯やら鯖のへしこ茶漬け、
鮪丼、そして葱そばやらを堪能させてもらいました✋
人間力のある大将にスタッフ＼(^o^)
味、値段、クオリティー全部美味かったです
ご馳走様でしたぁ～～

Japanese cuisine Kenno
⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯
Popular Japanese restaurant in Kyoto ♡
A store I've always wanted to go to
I finally made it!
Thank you so much︎💕︎

...
First of all, the music changes with each item 🎶
For some reason I end up making a lot of puns depending on the food lol
But when it comes to cooking, this gap is irresistible!
The store looks great, but the distance between you and the customers is important.
It's perfect for shrinking it (lol)
...
Start with something like cold sweetfish soup!
Next, homemade char siu ♪♪
Octopus with jelly
Rockfish sashimi,
All of them have a taste that makes you want a second helping (^^)/
It's a great flavor,
...
Grilled fish in a bowl
And corn spring rolls?
It was divinely delicious~~~
And delicious fried oysters with okra
The tartar sauce is so delicious😋
⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯
Next, the final parade began🤗
The clay pot white rice I've eaten so far...
It might be number one, use that.
Whitebait rice, mackerel heshiko chazuke,
I enjoyed the tuna bowl and green onion soba✋
A general and staff with great human skills＼(^o^)
The taste, price, and quality were all delicious.
Thank you for the meal.

Michelin-Starred Japanese Cuisine Kenno in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward

Kenya is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Kyoto, known for its modern Japanese cuisine that blends traditional techniques with innovative ideas. The chef, Kenya Sakai, emphasizes using seasonal ingredients to create a well-defined course menu. The restaurant offers a warm atmosphere with counter seating and plays curated music to enhance the dining experience.

Kenya: a modern japanese culinary gem in Kyoto's sakyo ward.

Nestled quietly in the scenic Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, Kenya offers a refined dining experience that perfectly blends traditional Japanese culinary craftsmanship with contemporary innovation. Since its opening in March 2021, this intimate restaurant has captivated food enthusiasts by focusing on seasonal ingredients through its acclaimed omakase course.

a rising star with prestigious recognition

Despite its relatively recent establishment, Kenya quickly earned a reputation for excellence. By 2023, it was selected for the coveted Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST 'Hyakumeiten' list, highlighting it among the region's top hundred Japanese restaurants. This accolade underlines Kenya's dedication to quality, creativity, and authentic flavors that resonate with both locals and travelers searching for an exceptional Japanese dining journey.

intimate ambiance and meticulous craftsmanship

Kenya prides itself on offering an exclusive dining setting with only eight counter seats available. This intimate layout fosters a personal connection between the chef and guests, allowing diners to fully appreciate the artistry and care poured into each dish. The seasonal omakase menus are thoughtfully crafted to celebrate the freshest ingredients, presenting an evolving tasting experience that reflects Kyoto's rich culinary heritage while embracing modern techniques.

: Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST 'Hyakumeiten' in 2023.

Kenya is a delightful restaurant located in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward, offering a unique taste of authentic Japanese cuisine in a charming setting. The restaurant features a warm atmosphere that reflects the artistry of Kyoto, with a menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors.

Kenya

季節の食材を活かした全10品程度のコース。

おまかせコース

Discover the exquisite flavors of Kenno in Kyoto Japan's culinary gem Kenno offers a sophisticated omakase course that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients with masterful precision and creativity each dish tells a story blending traditional Japanese techniques with subtle hints of innovative Chinese influences creating an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Kyoto Sakyo Ward Okazaki Tokuseichō area 

At Kenno the highlight is the carefully curated omakase course composed of approximately ten exquisite dishes that evolve with the seasons ensuring freshness and a vibrant palette of flavors From delicate appetizers to elegantly prepared mains this menu caters to diners seeking a refined and immersive Japanese dining journey 

Begin your meal with imaginative starters like pickles marinated in Shaoxing wine and fried pork and shrimp offering a harmonious blend of umami and crisp textures The cold sweetfish soup delivers a refreshing introduction while handmade char siu and octopus in a delicate jelly showcase the chef's skillful fusion of flavors 

The mains are a celebration of Kyoto and seasonal delights with standout dishes including Akashi red sea bream and sweet sea bream paired with matsutake mushroom soup Experience the delightful textures of grilled fish complemented by corn spring rolls and savor fried Spanish mackerel alongside seasonal vegetable preparations such as Hida nameko mushrooms and chrysanthemum greens 

Kenno is renowned for its inventive use of ingredients and striking presentations such as the golden combination of mullet roe and white radish a dish that surprises with its clean flavors and absence of fishiness The unique bamboo leaf-scented nigiri sushi wrapped like a rice dumpling and the crunchy cucumber rolls filled with tender red snapper represent the chef’s playful creativity A memorable Cantonese style barbecued pork glazed with honey adds a savory sweet finish to this section 

End your dining experience with seasonal desserts like the delightful warabi mochi made from fresh strawberries topped with dark roasted coffee notes and a small fudge made from soybean powder This modern twist on traditional sweets perfectly balances texture and flavor bringing a fashionable and satisfying close to your meal 

Kenno offers an intimate dining setting with only eight seats where the atmosphere is enhanced by carefully selected background music that changes with each course elevating the sensory experience Complement your meal with an excellent selection of sake beer and wine perfectly paired to highlight the vibrant flavors of each dish The restaurant’s dedication to hospitality and culinary innovation makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers exploring Kyoto 

 featuring about ten thoughtfully prepared dishes that showcase Kyoto’s local ingredients.

 that blends Japanese culinary tradition with creative Chinese cooking techniques.

 with only eight seats ensuring personal and attentive service in a relaxed atmosphere.

 where the background soundtrack shifts to complement each dish enhancing your overall sensory enjoyment.

Savor authentic Japanese cuisine at Kenya in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward. Enjoy unique flavors and warm ambiance. Book your table today!

Kenya Restaurant: Authentic Japanese Dining in Kyoto

Sakyo Ward Municipality

kenno japanese cuisine in kyoto japan dining experience overview 

Nestled in the tranquil Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, Japan, Kenno offers a captivating journey into modern Japanese haute cuisine. Set in the discreet and elegant Shōgo-in Building near the iconic Heian Shrine, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a haven for culinary adventurers seeking an exceptional omakase experience. Chef Kenno Sakai, a prodigy trained at the prestigious Kikunoi and seasoned in New York and Kyoto's top kitchens, leads the kitchen with passion and innovation.

unique dining experience and culinary artistry 

Kenno is renowned not only for its exquisite dishes but also for the immersive atmosphere created by carefully curated background music that changes with each course. This thoughtful pairing elevates the dining journey, engaging all the senses. The intimate setting with only eight counter seats fosters a connection between guests and the culinary team, making every visit feel like a private performance.

Innovative fusion of Japanese and Chinese culinary techniques

 shines through in dishes like mullet roe paired with white radish and Cantonese-style barbecued pork drizzled with honey. Each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation, surprising even the most discerning gourmets.

The highlight for many visitors is the seasonal omakase course priced at 22,000 JPY, featuring approximately 10 meticulously crafted dishes that showcase Kyoto’s freshest ingredients. This carefully designed menu offers a balanced progression of flavors and textures, from delicate cold sweetfish soups to rich claypot rice dishes and innovative sushi creations. The chef’s commitment to quality and creativity ensures a memorable meal that celebrates the best of Japanese culinary tradition with a modern twist.

what to expect and practical information 

Kenno operates with a focus on intimate, attentive service provided by the chef himself and his close-knit team including his wife and second chef. Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand. The restaurant accepts credit cards and offers dine-in only, emphasizing a tranquil and refined atmosphere without outdoor seating or live music. While the menu does not cater specifically to vegetarians or children, it is perfect for adults seeking a sophisticated dining experience paired with carefully selected wines and beers.

 – 1F, Shōgo-in Building, Okazaki Tokuseicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan (postcode 606-8351) 

 – Modern Japanese with creative influences from Chinese cooking techniques

 – Seasonal 10-course omakase priced at 22,000 JPY

 – Intimate, refined, with bespoke music pairing and chef’s attentive service

 – Essential, due to limited seating and popularity

Experience innovative Japanese dining at Kenya in Kyoto, blending seasonal ingredients with a warm atmosphere, curated music, and a refined course menu.

Kyoto Modern Japanese Cuisine at Kenya - Michelin Starred Restaurant

Discover Kenya in Kyoto, a top-rated chef-driven restaurant offering exquisite kaiseki courses, private ambiance, and a unique musical dining experience.

Kenya Kyoto - Exclusive Kaiseki Experience & Artistic Dining

Visit Kenya in Kyoto for a memorable modern Japanese culinary journey with seasonal dishes, curated music, and a cozy counter seating setting.

Michelin-Starred Japanese Cuisine Kenno in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward

Dining & Culinary Delights

Signature Highlights

FAQs

Visit Kenno today!

Hyotei

Bistro Yanagihara

LURRA°