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Kyoto

Sojiki Nakahigashi is renowned for its innovative approach to traditional Japanese cuisine, emphasizing the use of seasonal wild plants and local ingredients. The chef's personal engagement with guests and the intimate dining setting are frequently highlighted in reviews.

Sojiki Nakahigashi: A refined kaiseki dining gem in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward 

Nestled in the serene neighborhood of Jōdoji Ishibashichō within Kyoto's historic Sakyo Ward, Sojiki Nakahigashi offers an exquisite Japanese dining experience that captures the essence of seasonal artistry. This Michelin two-star restaurant is celebrated for its elegant kaiseki cuisine, highlighting the vibrant flavors of locally sourced ingredients in a minimalist, tranquil setting.

Sojiki Nakahigashi's menu is a journey through Japan's rich culinary landscape, emphasizing freshness and natural taste. Diners rave about signature dishes such as the richly aromatic matsutake mushrooms, the creamy New York bowl enriched with egg yolk, and the coveted crispy rice crust formed at the bottom of the pot—a delicate feat mastered by the chefs here. Accompanying the meal, Uji tea provides an unexpected salty aftertaste, leaving a lasting impression on guests seeking authentic local flavors.

The restaurant’s sleek, minimalist interior creates a calm and intimate atmosphere perfect for savoring each course in a leisurely 2 to 2.5-hour session. While the setting is elegant and the dress code smart casual, Sojiki Nakahigashi warmly welcomes foreigners, making it a must-visit for discerning food lovers exploring Kyoto. Note that the restaurant operates on a reservation-only basis and accepts credit cards for payment, enhancing convenience for international guests.

 highlight the chef’s deep respect for natural ingredients and the personal engagement that shines through each dish. The grilled Ayu fish and white miso soup are frequently singled out for their exquisite taste. Guests often praise the artful presentation and the serene ambiance that enhances the culinary journey.

 include booking at least two months in advance due to the restaurant’s popularity and limited seating. The absence of parking encourages use of Kyoto’s excellent public transport. Be prepared for a menu focused heavily on vegetables and seasonal ingredients, and enjoy the artistry even if some dishes may not suit every palate. Cash is not required as credit cards are accepted, but the dress code should be respected for an optimal experience.

Frequently asked questions about Sojiki Nakahigashi

How can I make a reservation at Sojiki Nakahigashi?

 Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant directly at +81 75-752-3500. It's recommended to book at least two months in advance due to high demand.

What is the dress code at Sojiki Nakahigashi?

 The restaurant requests a smart casual dress code. Overly casual attire such as flip-flops, beachwear, or gym clothes should be avoided.

Is there parking available at Sojiki Nakahigashi?

 The restaurant does not offer parking facilities. Guests are advised to use public transportation or nearby parking options.

What are the operating hours of Sojiki Nakahigashi?

 The restaurant operates from Tuesday to Sunday, with lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and dinner from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays.

Does Sojiki Nakahigashi accept credit cards?

 Yes, the restaurant accepts major credit cards including VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, and Diners Club.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Sojiki Nakahigashi is a culinary gem that offers a unique dining experience steeped in tradition and artistry. This Michelin two-star restaurant is renowned for its exquisite kaiseki meals that celebrate the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients. The minimalist decor creates a serene atmosphere, allowing diners to focus on the artistry of each dish. With a commitment to sustainability, the restaurant sources its ingredients locally, ensuring that every bite is a reflection of Kyoto's rich culinary heritage.

At Sojiki Nakahigashi, every meal is a journey through the seasons, meticulously crafted to highlight the freshest ingredients. Signature dishes include the fragrant Matsutake mushrooms, which deliver an aromatic experience that transports you to the forest floor, and the New York bowl, a creamy delight enriched with egg yolk that melts in your mouth. Each dish is not just food; it's an art form, presented with a keen eye for aesthetics that reflects the beauty of Japanese culture.

: An aromatic delight that captures the essence of the forest.

: A creamy, rich dish that embodies the restaurant's culinary philosophy.

The chef's philosophy revolves around appreciating nature's bounty, which is evident in every aspect of the dining experience. The meticulous preparation of each dish is a testament to the chef's dedication to showcasing the natural flavors of the ingredients. A fun fact about Sojiki Nakahigashi is that it operates on a cash-only basis, which adds to its charm and exclusivity. Reservations are essential, often requiring multiple attempts to secure a table, reflecting the restaurant's popularity among locals and tourists alike.

: It is renowned for its kaiseki dining experience that emphasizes seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

: Yes, reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

: The dress code is business casual, with a touch of formality expected.

Embark on a culinary adventure at Sojiki Nakahigashi, where each meal is a celebration of Kyoto's rich flavors and traditions. Whether you are a local or a traveler, this dining experience is one not to be missed. Book your reservation today and immerse yourself in the elegance of kaiseki dining.

Sleek eatery in a serene, minimalist space with set-price menus highlighting locally sourced fare.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYMmNuLTJ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJga5LcQEJAWARQ9OxOxh3-m0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYMmNuLTJ3RRAB

A great experience with a Japanese Michelin two-star restaurant. I had the opportunity to explore high-quality Japanese ingredients, featuring fresh and natural flavors.

Memorable dishes:
- Matsutake mushrooms, with an incredibly rich aroma.
- The signature dish, the New York bowl, was creamy and enriched with egg yolk.
- Crispy rice from the bottom of the pot—it sounds simple, but it's actually very difficult to make.
- Uji tea impressed me with its unique, salty aftertaste, which was truly memorable

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqcjRlM0RBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJga5LcQEJAWARQ9OxOxh3-m0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqcjRlM0RBEAE

We were underwhelmed with the food in general. I really identified with what the chef's ideology of appreciating what nature has to provide natural flavors, and thus paid a visit. However, I am not impressed by how good ingredients are used for their natural flavors to shine in a dish. The food ingredients had lots of duplication and similar taste (often too salty) throughout the couses.
While I can tell the good balance the main chef was able to bring for the entire meal via different flavors and sauces ( and the aesthetics were great), I wasn't impressed by the interpretation nor felt that I have tasted freshness of nature from this food experience. Maybe it is the time of the year where the ingredients are limited? I have seen other reviews with more attractive dishes. I do appreciate the efforts and creativity required to constantly updating the menu and design of course, but the spring edition was not impressive.
The additional rice dishes for foreigners were not adding any point. People are coming here for an elevated food experience not just home cooked plain course.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN4cTl1QmNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJga5LcQEJAWARQ9OxOxh3-m0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN4cTl1QmNBEAE

Very elegant Michelin rated dining experience. The dress code is definitely business casual/formal though they do give a lot of slack to foreigners. It’s also a cash only place and required reservations ahead of time. The who dinner takes about 2.5 hours. They try to speak English, but they do provide a written menu which is not always accurate.

This was a 9-10 course menu. Overall the dishes were very vegetable-heavy and very artfully decorated. Wouldn’t say I enjoyed every course, but I did appreciate the the beauty of every course and it definitely reflected many of the traditional themes of Japanese fine dining. Overall, would recommend if you’re in the area and have cash to spare.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN4OE1UTU53EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJga5LcQEJAWARQ9OxOxh3-m0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN4OE1UTU53EAE

I'll start by saying that this experience was great. The service (if you speak Japanese) and food was amazing. With that said, I slightly felt that this getting a reservation at this place was wasted on me. If you don't speak Japanese, you'll miss out a lot on the show, humor, and explanations for what you're being served. It was still extremely delicious, but compared to the other 2 michelin star places I went in Japan, you could tell that this place was more focused on its Japanese guests. This was especially shown by the process of getting a reservation which took nearly 100 calls with busy signals to accomplish.

All that said, I'd still recommend going as everything I ate was delicious but very different than anywhere else I went in Japan.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURBeWFXaDN3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJga5LcQEJAWARQ9OxOxh3-m0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURBeWFXaDN3RRAB

One of the best kaiseki meals we had in Japan. The lunch is of very good value, about 6000+ Yen without drinks. They also offer a veg meal (without dashi) on request. Book well ahead. Keep about 2.0 hours for this experience. It's worth every minute.

Michelin 2-Star Kaiseki Dining at Sojiki Nakahigashi, Kyoto

Sojiki Nakahigashi, established by Chef Hisao Nakahigashi, is celebrated for its 'wild plant cuisine' that honors the bounty of nature. The chef personally harvests wild vegetables and flowers daily, ensuring the freshest ingredients for his dishes.

Sojiki Nakahigashi: A Michelin Star Legacy in Kyoto’s Culinary Scene 

Nestled in the historic city of Kyoto, Sojiki Nakahigashi has carved a distinctive niche in the world of haute cuisine since its inception. This elegant two-star Michelin restaurant is celebrated for its kaiseki dining experience — a refined, multi-course meal emphasizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients that pay homage to the natural flavors of Japan.

Sojiki Nakahigashi was established in 2007 by the visionary Chef Hisao Nakahigashi. From the beginning, the restaurant adopted a unique culinary philosophy centered around 'herbivorous cuisine' — an innovative approach that spotlights wild plants and local vegetables. This dedication to nature’s bounty ensures that each dish encapsulates the freshness and essence of its ingredients, offering diners a memorable and authentic taste of Kyoto’s terroir.

Over the years, Sojiki Nakahigashi has garnered prestigious accolades that reflect its culinary excellence and environmental commitment. In 2019, it proudly received the Michelin Green Star, a distinguished honor recognizing restaurants that demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious practices within the fine dining arena.

Continuing its ascent in Japan’s gastronomic landscape, the restaurant was selected in 2023 for Tabelog's Japanese Cuisine WEST 'Hyakumeiten' list, spotlighting the 100 most distinguished dining establishments in western Japan. This recognition highlights Sojiki Nakahigashi’s status as a culinary beacon in Kyoto’s vibrant food culture.

Dining at Sojiki Nakahigashi is not merely about the food; it is an immersive experience that celebrates Japanese culinary traditions through a modern lens. The sleek, minimalist setting creates a serene ambiance, allowing guests to fully appreciate the artistry and precision of each course. The set-price menus meticulously showcase the best of Kyoto’s seasonal produce, crafting a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal.

 Chef Hisao Nakahigashi launches Sojiki Nakahigashi with a focus on wild plants and local vegetables.

 Awarded for its outstanding commitment to sustainable dining practices.

 Selected for Tabelog's Japanese Cuisine WEST 'Hyakumeiten' 100 best restaurants.

Dine In

Restroom

Reservations

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Accepts Credit Cards

Sojiki Nakahigashi is a sleek eatery in Kyoto, offering a serene, minimalist space with set-price menus that highlight locally sourced fare. This exquisite restaurant specializes in kaiseki, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients in meticulously crafted dishes.

Sojiki Nakahigashi

A daily-changing menu featuring seasonal wild plants, vegetables, and fish, highlighting the flavors of Kyoto's four seasons.

Appetizer Platter

Rice Cooked in Okudo Stove with Roasted Dried Sardines

Crispy Rice

Seasonal Omakase Menu

Seasonal kaiseki menu at Sojiki Nakahigashi in Kyoto Japan.

Discover an exquisite culinary journey with the Seasonal Kaiseki Menu at Sojiki Nakahigashi, a refined Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in the serene Sakyo Ward of Kyoto. This elegant dining experience expertly showcases the natural flavors and artistry of locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing seasonal wild plants, mountain vegetables, and mushrooms that capture the true essence of Kyoto's rich landscape.

Begin your meal with a thoughtfully curated selection of starters designed to highlight freshness and seasonal bounty. The Appetizer Platter offers a vibrant array of seasonal wild plants, mountain vegetables, and delicate mushrooms, providing an earthy introduction to the meal. The White Miso Soup is a comforting blend of creamy white miso and seasonal vegetables, soothing the senses with its subtle umami depths. For seafood lovers, the Carp Tsukuri presents freshly sliced carp paired with seasonal garnishes for a harmonious balance of flavor and texture. Additionally, the Dried Sardines served with seasonal herbs deliver a savory bite that nods to traditional Japanese flavors.

The main courses at Sojiki Nakahigashi are a testament to the kitchen's dedication to seasonal and local ingredients, artfully prepared to elevate natural tastes. The Grilled Ayu is a standout dish featuring delicate Ayu fish infused with fragrant seasonal herbs, delivering a smoky yet fresh flavor profile. The Rice Cooked in the traditional Okudo Stove is infused with seasonal garnishes, showcasing the chef’s mastery over technique to create the perfect texture and aroma. The Crispy Rice with Sansho Oil combines a satisfying crunch with the vibrant, citrusy notes of sansho pepper oil and a sprinkle of rock salt, offering a unique and memorable taste experience.

Conclude your meal with the elegant Sake Sorbet with Grapefruit, a palate-cleansing dessert that harmonizes the gentle sweetness of sake with the tart freshness of grapefruit. Enhanced with dried fig and a touch of dark chocolate, this dessert offers a refined balance of flavors that leaves a lasting impression.

Sojiki Nakahigashi offers a serene, minimalist atmosphere where diners can immerse themselves in the art of Kaiseki dining. While the menu does not list cocktails, guests can enjoy carefully selected beers, wines, and authentic Uji tea, known for its unique, slightly salty aftertaste that perfectly complements the meal’s natural flavors. Reservations are recommended to experience this two-star Michelin restaurant's remarkable dedication to seasonal Japanese cuisine.

 Seasonal wild plants, mountain vegetables, and mushrooms that celebrate the forest’s offerings.

 A delicately grilled fish paired with seasonal herbs for a fresh, smoky flavor.

 Crunchy rice enhanced with the zesty aroma of sansho pepper and rock salt.

 A refreshing dessert blending sake’s sweetness with citrusy grapefruit and dark chocolate accents.

Indulge in exquisite culinary delights at Sojiki Nakahigashi in Kyoto. Experience authentic Japanese flavors in an enchanting setting. Reserve your table now!

Sojiki Nakahigashi: Kyoto's Exquisite Dining Experience

Sakyo Ward Municipality

A set menu featuring seasonal dishes, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

Lunch Course

An extended set menu with additional courses, showcasing a wider variety of seasonal ingredients.

Dinner Course

sojiki nakahigashi - a refined kaiseki dining experience in kyoto's sakyo ward 

Nestled in the tranquil neighborhood of Jōdoji Ishibashichō within Kyoto’s historic Sakyo Ward, Sojiki Nakahigashi offers discerning food lovers a sublime plunge into authentic Japanese haute cuisine. This Michelin two-star establishment is celebrated for its masterful kaiseki cuisine, which showcases the elegant harmony of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in meticulously crafted multi-course meals.

an intimate and minimalist setting for true food connoisseurs

Sojiki Nakahigashi impresses with its sleek, minimalist interior design, creating a serene atmosphere that allows guests to fully appreciate the artistry of their meals without distraction. The restaurant offers two private tatami rooms, perfect for those seeking a refined, intimate dining experience away from the bustle. For travelers interested in an engaging culinary journey, the 12-seat counter provides a front-row seat to the chef’s skillful preparations and personalized hospitality.

signature dishes and flavors that captivate the senses

The culinary experience here is a celebration of Japan’s rich natural bounty. Diners frequently praise the exquisite matsutake mushrooms, noted for their intense and fragrant aroma. The restaurant’s signature "New York bowl" delights with a creamy texture enhanced by a luscious egg yolk topping. An often-highlighted element is the expertly crafted crispy rice from the pot’s bottom—a deceptively simple dish that demands precise technique. Complementing these flavors is the unique Uji tea, appreciated for its unexpected salty aftertaste—a memorable finish to each course.

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal emphasizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, creating an authentic and ever-changing dining adventure.

Two exclusive tatami rooms available for tranquil and personal dining experiences, ideal for special occasions or business meetings.

Twelve seats at the counter invite guests to witness the chef’s culinary mastery firsthand, creating a memorable, interactive dining encounter.

Reservations are essential to secure a spot at this highly sought-after destination. The dining experience typically spans around 2.5 hours, encompassing an elegant 9 to 10 course menu. While the restaurant primarily caters to Japanese-speaking guests, English menus are provided, though they may not always reflect the latest offerings. Payment by credit or debit card is accepted, but note that the ambiance encourages business casual or formal attire to match the restaurant’s refined vibe.

why sojiki nakahigashi stands out in kyoto

Sojiki Nakahigashi is not just a meal—it’s an immersive journey through Japanese culinary tradition, blending the essence of natural flavors with artistic presentation. Food enthusiasts and travelers seeking an authentic, elegant kaiseki experience will find this spot a must-visit gem in Kyoto. The restaurant’s dedication to seasonal ingredients and meticulous care creates an unforgettable dining story that honors Japan's rich gastronomic heritage.

Discover Kyoto's Sojiki Nakahigashi, a Michelin two-star restaurant offering innovative wild plant cuisine using seasonal ingredients. Reserve now!

Kyoto's Sojiki Nakahigashi - Exceptional Wild Plant Cuisine

Enjoy a traditional Kyoto Kaiseki meal at Sojiki Nakahigashi, famed for its seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and intimate atmosphere. Book today!

Kyoto Sojiki Nakahigashi - Kyoto's Premier Kaiseki Experience

Experience the best of Kyoto's culinary scene at Sojiki Nakahigashi, a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in wild, seasonal ingredients and elegant dishes.

Michelin 2-Star Kaiseki Dining at Sojiki Nakahigashi, Kyoto

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