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GUIDE MICHELIN
Kyoto, Japan
Discover the exquisite charm of Sushi Rakumi in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward.
Nestled in the heart of Miyoshichō, Sushi Rakumi offers an intimate dining experience that captivates food enthusiasts and travelers alike. This renowned sushi restaurant is celebrated for delivering a world-class omakase journey, combining impeccable craftsmanship with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally and beyond.
An intimate setting with a personal touch
With only eight counter seats, Sushi Rakumi ensures a cozy and exclusive atmosphere where the chefs engage personally with guests. Despite language barriers, the staff's warmth and humor shine through, making every meal feel like a special occasion. The dining experience is thoughtfully paced, even accommodating guests who arrive late without compromising the quality or flow of the omakase courses.
Exceptional culinary craftsmanship and fresh ingredients
Sushi Rakumi's menu showcases a balance of cooked and raw offerings, highlighting delicacies such as uni and snow crab that delight the palate. Each dish reflects the chef’s mastery, emphasizing the natural flavors and seasonal freshness of top-quality ingredients. Pair your meal with an exclusive selection of sake to elevate the experience further.
Essential information for your visit
- What is the price of the omakase course? The omakase course is priced at approximately $295.90 per person.
- How many seats are available at the restaurant? The restaurant has 8 counter seats.
- Is a reservation required? Yes, reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.
Guest impressions and atmosphere
Sushi Rakumi is highly praised for its exceptional omakase experience, fresh ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere.
Guests often highlight the head chef Nomura san’s friendly nature, the superb quality of seasonal flavors, and the rare sake selections available. Many consider it one of Kyoto's top Michelin-level dining experiences, leaving visitors eager to return.
Sushi Rakumi: A Michelin Star Journey in Kyoto's Culinary Scene
Nestled in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, Sushi Rakumi opened its doors in January 2019, quickly establishing itself as a beacon of exquisite Japanese culinary artistry. This intimate sushi restaurant, celebrated for its refined omakase experience, has captivated food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike with its dedication to quality and seasonality.
Historical milestones of sushi rakumi
Since its inception in 2019, Sushi Rakumi has distinguished itself through a commitment to authentic sushi craftsmanship combined with an inviting atmosphere. In just one year, the restaurant earned a prestigious Michelin star in the "Michelin Guide Kyoto 2020," a testament to its culinary excellence and meticulous attention to detail.
Experience and offerings
Sushi Rakumi offers an exclusive omakase menu featuring a balance of fresh raw fish and expertly cooked delicacies. With a limited seating of just eight guests, this intimate setting allows chefs to engage personally, crafting a memorable journey through seasonal flavors and premium ingredients. The restaurant's reputation is further enhanced by its curated sake selection, complementing the meal with rare and unique varieties.
Why sushi rakumi stands out in kyoto
- Intimate dining experience with only eight seats, fostering a personalized connection with the chefs.
- Michelin-starred quality recognized for exceptional omakase and culinary craftsmanship.
- Seasonal and fresh ingredients curated daily for authentic, flavorful sushi.
- Warm and engaging chefs who make each meal a delightful and memorable experience.
Discover Sushi Rakumi in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward
Nestled in the historic heart of Kyoto at 332-6 Miyoshichō, Sushi Rakumi offers an extraordinary omakase dining experience that captivates sushi lovers and culinary adventurers alike. This Michelin-starred gem is renowned for its commitment to using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, showcasing seasonal flavors with masterful precision. The intimate setting, featuring just eight seats around a sleek counter, creates a personalized and engaging atmosphere where the chefs' skill and passion shine.
What makes Sushi Rakumi stand out
Exceptional omakase experience with more cooked courses than raw fish, offers a delightful twist on traditional sushi dining. The chefs’ warmth and humor transcend any language barriers, making every visit feel like a unique, friendly gathering rather than just a meal. Diners have frequently praised the special sake selection, allowing guests to savor rare and exquisite varieties that complement each course perfectly.
With attentive service and a focus on seasonal ingredients like uni and snow crab, Sushi Rakumi promises a gastronomic journey that honors Kyoto’s culinary heritage. The 8-seat counter design fosters an intimate experience where the head chef often personally interacts with guests, making the dinner light-hearted and memorable.
Considerations before your visit
While Sushi Rakumi stands out for its culinary excellence and intimate ambiance, there are some practical aspects to keep in mind. The high price point, approximately 250 USD per person, reflects the premium quality and exclusivity but may not suit all budgets. Reservations can be challenging due to the limited seating, and walk-ins are not accommodated. Additionally, the restaurant does not accept cash payments, so having credit card options ready is essential.
- Limited seating and reservations may require planning well in advance to secure your spot.
- No cash payments accepted so be prepared with a credit card.
- No private rooms available which could impact privacy for some diners.
Final thoughts
For those seeking an authentic and high-end sushi adventure in Kyoto, Sushi Rakumi delivers a world-class experience that justifies its premium price and exclusivity. The combination of expertly crafted dishes, intimate seating, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination for foodies and travelers who appreciate refined Japanese cuisine. Planning ahead and understanding the few limitations will help ensure your visit is as seamless and memorable as the exquisite flavors served.
Closing Soon - Closing 7:00 PM
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
17:00–19:00, 19:30–21:30
Wednesday
17:00–19:00, 19:30–21:30
Thursday
17:00–19:00, 19:30–21:30
Friday
17:00–19:00, 19:30–21:30
Saturday
17:00–19:00, 19:30–21:30
Sunday
Closed
Aggregated Ratings 4.4
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