La Trace ラ・トラース: A culinary gem in Nara's heart.

Nestled in the historic city of Nara, LA TRACE ラ・トラース offers a vibrant and intimate French dining experience that celebrates the richness of local Japanese ingredients. This cozy restaurant has become a favorite for food enthusiasts, travelers, and digital nomads alike seeking an unforgettable meal in an inviting atmosphere.

Exceptional dining with a personal touch

At the core of La Trace's charm is Chef Ryo Sato, whose humility and meticulous attention to detail elevate every dish into a unique masterpiece. Diners can watch the chef in action at the counter, creating a nine-plate tasting menu expertly paired with superb wines sourced to highlight the flavors of each course. The warm hospitality of the staff, including the perfect maître d', Wakana, adds to the seamless dining experience.

Why La Trace stands out

Authentic French cuisine infused with Japanese seasonal ingredients - each bite tells a story of local flavors and culinary artistry.
Intimate and cozy atmosphere - perfect for a relaxed evening or special occasion in Nara.
Expert wine pairings that enhance the flavors of each course, curated to please even the most discerning palates.
Multilingual and welcoming staff who ensure you feel right at home, speaking French, English, and Japanese fluently.

What visitors love about La Trace

Guests consistently praise the flawless harmony between the culinary team and front-of-house, the chef’s charming humility, and the unforgettable tasting menu. Many highlight the cozy ambiance and attentive service, making La Trace not just a meal, but a cherished memory in Nara. From locals to international travelers, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, positioning La Trace as a top destination for French dining in Japan.

Frequently asked questions

予約は必要ですか？はい、予約が必要です。
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A Historical Overview of La Trace ラ・トラース in Nara, Japan.

Nestled in the heart of Nara, La Trace ラ・トラース offers a unique culinary experience that beautifully blends traditional Japanese elements with French gastronomy. Since its inception, this restaurant has captivated diners with its seasonal dishes crafted from local ingredients, creating a menu that reflects both the richness of the region and the creativity of its chef.

Timeline of Key Events at La Trace.

2016: La Trace opens its doors, introducing a fresh take on French cuisine to the local community.
2022: La Trace is awarded one Michelin star, solidifying its reputation as a top dining destination.
2023: The restaurant once again achieves a Michelin star, showcasing its consistency and culinary excellence.

A Culinary Journey Through History

Since its opening in 2016, La Trace has not just been a restaurant but a cornerstone of Nara's culinary landscape. The establishment prides itself on utilizing fresh, local ingredients that change with the seasons, allowing for a dynamic and evolving menu that delights both the palate and the senses.

The recognition from the Michelin Guide in both 2022 and 2023 has further elevated La Trace's status, attracting food enthusiasts and critics alike. Chef Ryo Sato’s passion for creating unique dishes, combined with his attentive service and charming hospitality, ensures that every visit is memorable. Whether you are seated at the counter watching the chef in action or enjoying a carefully curated meal with wine pairings, La Trace offers an unforgettable experience that resonates with the heart of Nara's rich culinary tradition.

Discover La Trace in Nara: A Michelin Star Culinary Experience

Nestled in the heart of Ōmiyachō, Nara, La Trace is a culinary gem that offers an exceptional dining experience highlighted by its Michelin one-star accolade. This restaurant's charm lies in its masterful use of local, seasonal ingredients that bring the vibrant flavors of the region directly to your plate. The ambiance is warmly inviting, striking a perfect balance between sophistication and homely comfort, ideal for food enthusiasts seeking a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

Highlights of the dining experience

La Trace is renowned for its meticulously crafted dishes that celebrate the essence of Nara’s seasonal produce. Diners can enjoy a multi-course menu expertly paired with wines selected to enhance every flavor note, creating a harmonious and memorable meal. The personalized service by the attentive staff, including a front-of-house team fluent in multiple languages, adds to the intimate and welcoming vibe of the establishment.

Considerations before visiting La Trace

While La Trace delivers an outstanding gastronomic journey, prospective diners should note that reservation is essential to secure a spot, given the restaurant’s limited seating and popularity. Additionally, the operating days are somewhat restricted, so planning ahead ensures you don’t miss out on this unique experience. The restaurant’s intimate setting is designed for adults and does not cater specifically to children or families looking for child-friendly menus.

Why La Trace is a must-visit in Nara

La Trace stands out as a destination for discerning travelers and food lovers eager to indulge in Japanese fine dining with a local twist. The restaurant’s dedication to seasonal freshness, coupled with its Michelin recognition, offers an exclusive taste of Nara’s culinary heritage. Its cozy, home-like atmosphere makes it a perfect retreat after exploring the historic city, promising a dining experience that is both exceptional and authentically Japanese.

Pros : Local ingredients with seasonal flair, Michelin-starred quality, cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Cons : Reservation required, limited days open.

4.4

2-chōme-1-5 Ōmiyachō, Nara, 630-8115, Japan

0742-33-4000

Closed - Opens 6:00 PM

Monday

18:00–22:00

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

18:00–22:00

Thursday

18:00–22:00