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Nara

NARA NIKON is renowned for its exceptional kaiseki cuisine, attentive service, and serene ambiance. Guests frequently commend the restaurant's dedication to showcasing seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese cooking techniques. The staff's hospitality, despite language barriers, enhances the dining experience, making it memorable for both local patrons and international visitors.

Discover Nara Nikon: A Jewel of Kaiseki Cuisine in Nara, Japan.

Nestled in the tranquil district of Nabeyachō, Nara Nikon offers a refined dining experience deeply rooted in the art of traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine. This gem in Nara, Japan, draws food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike into a world where every dish tells a story of seasonal ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship. From the moment you step inside, the serene ambiance and warm hospitality invite you to savor not just a meal, but the very essence of Japanese culinary tradition.

At Nara Nikon, Chef Shimizu crafts each course with reverence for the present moment, embracing the Zen philosophy embedded in the restaurant's very name. The menu showcases exquisite dishes such as grilled conger eel with plum sauce, cured mackerel nigiri with crispy seaweed, Matsuba crab chawanmushi enriched with crab miso paste, and Yamato beef hobayaki served with delicate rice accompaniments. The vibrant textures and harmonious flavors reflect a mastery that has earned the establishment prestigious recognition, including two Michelin stars.

 define the experience at Nara Nikon. Although the restaurant primarily caters to local guests, the staff's warmth and effort to make international visitors comfortable transcend language barriers. Whether seated at the cozy counter or in a private room, diners enjoy personalized attention that complements the refined cuisine.

The restaurant maintains a smart casual dress code. Guests are encouraged to dress neatly to complement the elegant ambiance but formal attire is not mandatory.

Parking is available but limited, so it is recommended to reserve a spot ahead of time when booking your table.

NARA NIKON strives to accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice, ensuring a tailor-made dining experience for all guests.

The community praises NARA NIKON for its exceptional kaiseki dishes and the dedication to showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. Despite occasional language barriers, visitors consistently note the genuine hospitality and effort from the staff to deliver a memorable dining occasion. Particularly admired are the creative combinations and the elegant presentation of each course, which reflect the chef's deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions and mindfulness in every moment.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Nara, Japan, NARA NIKON is a culinary gem that invites you to experience the rich flavors and artistry of traditional Japanese cuisine. With its serene ambiance and meticulous attention to detail, this restaurant offers a dining experience that transcends mere sustenance, inviting guests to savor each moment. The restaurant's name, derived from a Zen saying meaning "cherishing the present moment," perfectly encapsulates the philosophy behind every dish served here.



As you step inside, the warm wooden interiors and soft lighting create an inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and special celebrations. The chefs at NARA NIKON take pride in using seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets, ensuring that each dish is not only fresh but also a reflection of the region's culinary heritage.

The menu at NARA NIKON is a celebration of seasonal flavors, featuring standout dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. One must-try is the **Matsuba crab chawanmushi**, a delicate steamed egg custard topped with rich crab miso paste, which melts in your mouth and leaves a lingering umami flavor. Another highlight is the **cured mackerel nigiri**, where the fish is expertly prepared, offering a perfect balance of texture and taste, enhanced by the crispiness of the seaweed.

One of the most remarkable aspects of NARA NIKON is its commitment to authenticity. Each dish is crafted with precision, reflecting the chef's extensive training at renowned establishments. A fun fact: the restaurant opened in 2016, and has since garnered a loyal following, thanks in part to its innovative approach to traditional kaiseki cuisine. Guests often rave about the **Hassun**, a beautifully arranged platter that showcases seasonal ingredients, making it not just a meal but a visual feast.

NARA NIKON is celebrated for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine, highlighting seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

Visiting NARA NIKON offers a unique opportunity to indulge in authentic Japanese flavors, crafted with care and presented beautifully.

NARA NIKON is conveniently located near several cultural landmarks, including the famous Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park, making it a perfect stop for food lovers exploring the area.

Whether you are a local or a traveler, NARA NIKON promises an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the essence of Japanese cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the exquisite flavors and artistry that await you. Make your reservation today and immerse yourself in the culinary wonders of Nara.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURRcUpxWUxnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoyQxNIc5AWARsCgMgZt4ljQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURRcUpxWUxnEAE

Had a great and special dinner here after meeting the owners at another Nara restaurant and asking if it was possible to have lunch at their restaurant.

The staff was extremely friendly and did their best to make me feel comfortable altough i did not speak Japanese which isnt the market they aim for.

The lunch was great with grilled conger eel and prume sauce and the cured mackrel nigiri being high points in my book.

Thank you for the great lunch @ 21 Sep 2017

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bHFqcy1nRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoyQxNIc5AWARsCgMgZt4ljQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bHFqcy1nRRAB

清水氏は菊水楼、祇園にしかわで修業を積み2016年に同店をオープン。店名は「今この瞬間を大事にする」という意味の禅の言葉だそう。
松葉蟹の茶碗蒸し　蟹味噌餡
慈姑饅頭　白甘鯛　原木椎茸挟み揚げ
氷見のぶり　明石のハリイカ　鯛
鯖寿司
手羽先唐揚げ　こぶともずくの間　あん肝味噌漬け　ニシン子持ち昆布
セコガニ内子ソース　車海老カダイフ揚げ　里芋の子供　むかご芋と卵黄
マナガツオの西京焼き　水菜胡麻和え　蓮根
白子　ほうれん草　海老芋　からすみ　下仁田ネギのすりながし
奈良　富雄　白ごはん　大和牛朴葉焼　じゃこ　粕汁
古都華のゼリー寄せ
栗最中
抹茶
料理はどれも丁寧に作られており美味しい。鯖寿司が海苔がぱりぱりで脂はあるがくどくなくとても好み。八寸は見た目も可愛らしくバラエティに富んでいる。すりながしは中々珍しい感じ。組み合わせが面白かった。ご飯のお供は大和牛の朴葉焼。お肉まで出てきて満足度が高い。デザートの古都華は絶品。これでコース20000円はCPよく大満足。

Mr. Shimizu trained at Kikusuirou and Gion Nishikawa and opened the store in 2016. The store's name is a Zen word that means ``cherishing the present moment.''
Matsuba crab chawanmushi with crab miso paste
Jigu Manju, white sweet sea bream, and fried shiitake mushrooms
Himi Noburi, Akashi squid, sea bream
mackerel sushi
Fried chicken wings between kobmozuku, red bean liver marinated in miso, kelp with herring roe
Seko crab roe sauce, fried tiger prawns, kadaif, taro kids, mukago yam and egg yolk
Saikyo grilled Pomfret with mizuna sesame dressing and lotus root
Milt, spinach, shrimp sweet potato, Karasumi, Shimonita green onion
Nara Tomio white rice Yamato beef Hobayaki Jako Kasujiru
Kotoka's jelly
Chestnut Monaka
Matcha
All the dishes are carefully prepared and delicious. I really like the mackerel sushi because the seaweed is crispy and it's greasy but not greasy. Hassun has a cute appearance and is rich in variety. Surinagashi feels quite rare. The combination was interesting. Accompanying the rice is Yamato beef grilled with Hoba. Even the meat came out and it was very satisfying. The dessert Kotoka is exquisite. With this, the 20,000 yen course has a good CP and I am very satisfied.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzZ08zcFFREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoyQxNIc5AWARsCgMgZt4ljQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzZ08zcFFREAE

2024/11/8初訪問お世話になりました。
予約時カウンターは既に満席で個室になり少しガッカリしましたが、個室もこじんまり良い席でした。
お品書きはありませんのでワクワクが止まりません。
最初出てきたのは勢子蟹と黄身酢で外子が今まで食べたことのない見た目と食感とお味で感動ものでした。
次から次に出てくるお品は手が込んだ手仕事でお味も美味しゅうございました。
また再訪問したいお店が増えました。
お酒はみいさんと二人でとりあえず生ビール中２、おかわり生ビール中２、産土生酒１、みむろ杉生酒１
御馳走様でした。

2024/11/8 Thank you for your first visit.
When I made my reservation, the counter was already full and I had to sit in a private room, which was a little disappointing, but the private room was also a nice, small seat.
There is no menu, so I can't stop being excited.
The first thing that came out was Seko crab and vinegar yolk, and Toko was impressed with the appearance, texture, and taste that she had never eaten before.
The items that came out one after another were elaborately handmade and tasted delicious.
There are more stores that I want to visit again.
For drinks, Mii-san and I decided to have 2 medium draft beers, 2 medium draft beers, 1 local draft beer, and 1 Mimuro Sugi draft beer.
Thank you for the treat.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiX0xhWGl3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoyQxNIc5AWARsCgMgZt4ljQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURiX0xhWGl3RRAB

奈良の和食、予約困難店のお店へ
初訪問。
キャンセル待ちを拾えたお陰で
伺えました。今回はラッキーな訪問でした。

優しいお味でお出汁も美味しかったです。
八寸がとても美しかったです。
大阪にあれば頻繁に通いたいお店

また伺える事を期待して....

Go to Japanese restaurants in Nara that are difficult to reserve.
First visit.
Thanks to being able to pick up the waiting list,
I could hear it. This was a lucky visit.

The flavor was gentle and the soup stock was delicious.
Eight inches was very beautiful.
Shops you'll want to visit often if you're in Osaka

I look forward to seeing you again....

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYaE5qTmZnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJoyQxNIc5AWARsCgMgZt4ljQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYaE5qTmZnEAE

2019年住宿旅館幫忙臨時預約的懷石料理。 餐點精緻，服務熱情。

這間餐廳後來得到米其林二星肯定。將來如果能預約到位置的話，會再回訪。

In 2019, the hotel helped make a temporary reservation for Kaiseki cuisine. The food is exquisite and the service is warm.

The restaurant later received two Michelin stars. If I can make a reservation in the future, I will visit again.

Dine at Nara Nikon: Exquisite Japanese Cuisine in Nara

Established in 2016 by Chef Shojiro Shimizu, NARA NIKON has quickly risen to prominence in the culinary world, earning two Michelin stars for its dedication to traditional Japanese cuisine and innovative presentations.

Nara Nikon: A Culinary Journey Rooted in Tradition and Excellence 

Located in the heart of Nara, Japan, NARA NIKON stands as a beacon of refined Japanese cuisine, blending time-honored traditions with innovative culinary artistry. Established in 2016 by the visionary Chef Shojiro Shimizu, this intimate restaurant has swiftly gained acclaim among food enthusiasts, digital nomads, and discerning travelers seeking authentic yet inventive dining experiences.

 marked the birth of NARA NIKON, when Chef Shojiro Shimizu opened its doors with a Zen-inspired ethos that emphasizes cherishing the present moment. This vision quickly translated into meticulously crafted dishes that celebrate the essence of seasonal ingredients and regional flavors, setting the foundation for the restaurant's soaring reputation.

 NARA NIKON earned its first Michelin star, a testament to Chef Shimizu's dedication to excellence and authentic craftsmanship.

 the restaurant's culinary prowess was further recognized with a second Michelin star, solidifying its place among Japan's most prestigious dining destinations.

NARA NIKON's menu is a carefully curated journey through Japanese culinary art, featuring exquisite seasonal ingredients such as Matsuba crab, sea bream, and Yamato beef. Guests relish the delicate balance of flavors in dishes like mackerel sushi with crispy seaweed and the impressive Yamato beef grilled with Hoba leaves. The restaurant’s atmosphere, with its friendly staff and intimate seating, often fully booked, creates a memorable and exclusive dining adventure.

 Chef Shimizu’s background training at renowned establishments like Kikusuirou and Gion Nishikawa elevates every plate to an art form.

 The small, refined setting provides personalized service and a tranquil atmosphere for a truly unique dining experience.

 The menu continuously evolves, showcasing the best of Nara’s local ingredients with delicate, innovative flavors that delight the palate.

Restroom

Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Nara, NARA NIKON beckons with an irresistible allure that intertwines modern dining with the rich tapestry of Japanese culture. The menu is a delightful celebration of local flavors, emphasizing seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby markets, each dish a culinary art piece that pays homage to the region’s heritage. NARA NIKON isn't just a restaurant; it’s a destination that embodies the spirit of Nara, inviting travelers to explore the intersection of culture and cuisine while relishing the warm hospitality that Japan is celebrated for.

NARA NIKON

Experience a meticulously crafted kaiseki menu that highlights the freshest seasonal ingredients, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Grilled Conger Eel with Plum Sauce

Cured Mackerel Nigiri

Matsuba Crab Chawanmushi

Saikyo Grilled Pomfret

Fried Chicken Wings with Kobu Mozuku

Seko Crab Roe Sauce

Fried Tiger Prawns with Kadaif

Taro Kids

Mukago Yam and Egg Yolk

Kotoka's Jelly

Chestnut Monaka

Matcha

Seasonal Kaiseki Menu

Seasonal kaiseki menu at NARA NIKON in Nara, Japan.

Discover the exquisite world of kaiseki dining at NARA NIKON, nestled in the heart of Nabeyachō, Nara. This Michelin two-star restaurant offers a seasonal kaiseki menu that artfully showcases the freshest local ingredients, inviting food enthusiasts and discerning travelers to savor a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Begin your culinary journey with delicately prepared starters that highlight the ocean's bounty and seasonal treasures. The Matsuba Crab Chawanmushi offers a silky egg custard infused with the rich sweetness of matsuba crab, setting an elegant tone for the meal.

The main courses at NARA NIKON are a celebration of Umami and culinary craftsmanship. Highlights include the Grilled Conger Eel glazed with a tangy plum sauce that perfectly balances smoky and sweet flavors, and the Cured Mackerel Nigiri, revered for its vinegared rice and tender fish with just the right hint of crisp seaweed.

Other standout dishes include Saikyo Grilled Pomfret, featuring a luscious miso paste glaze that enhances the delicate fish; Fried Chicken Wings paired with kobu mozuku, offering a delightful contrast of crispy and savory textures; the luxurious Seko Crab Roe Sauce that bathes tender seafood in rich umami; and Fried Tiger Prawns wrapped in kadaif, combining crispness with succulent prawns to tantalize your palate.

Conclude your meal with a selection of exquisite desserts that blend traditional Japanese ingredients with refined technique. Delight in the sweetness of Taro Kids drizzled with syrup, the unique Mukago Yam paired with rich egg yolk, and Kotoka's Jelly—a light and refreshing gelatin made from seasonal Kotoka fruit.

For a classic finish, savor the Chestnut Monaka, where crisp monaka shells encase sweet chestnut paste, or enjoy a traditional cup of Matcha, perfectly sweetened to cleanse the palate and complement the flavors of the meal.

NARA NIKON offers a curated selection of drinks including local draft beers and premium sakes that perfectly accompany the seasonal dishes. While the menu varies with the seasons and chef’s inspiration, guests can always expect a thoughtfully designed experience that cherishes the present moment.

 Matsuba Crab Chawanmushi with egg custard infused with rich crab flavor.

 Grilled Conger Eel with Plum Sauce, Cured Mackerel Nigiri, Saikyo Grilled Pomfret, Fried Chicken Wings with Kobu Mozuku, Seko Crab Roe Sauce, and Fried Tiger Prawns with Kadaif.

 Taro Kids with sweet syrup, Mukago Yam and Egg Yolk, Kotoka's Jelly, Chestnut Monaka, and Matcha for a traditional Japanese finish.

Savor authentic Japanese cuisine at Nara Nikon in Nara. Immerse yourself in flavor and culture—reserve your table today for an unforgettable dining experience!

Nara Nikon: Authentic Japanese Dining in Nara, Japan

Nara Municipality

A multi-course traditional Japanese meal showcasing seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry.

Kaiseki Dining

Intimate dining spaces available for special occasions or private gatherings.

Private Dining Rooms

Hands-on sessions to learn the art of kaiseki cooking from the chef.

Cooking Classes

Discover the Art of Kaiseki at NARA NIKON

Nestled in the historic heart of Nara, Japan, NARA NIKON offers an unforgettable dive into the exquisite world of 

, the pinnacle of traditional Japanese cuisine. This culinary experience is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship that will captivate food enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Exquisite Multi-Course Meals for the Discerning Palate

, where each course reflects a harmony of seasonal flavors and artistic presentation. From delicate crab chawanmushi to perfectly grilled Pomfret with mizuna sesame dressing, every dish is crafted to delight your senses and honor the moment.

Private Dining and Personalized Experiences

For those seeking intimacy and exclusivity, NARA NIKON provides 

, perfect for romantic dinners or special gatherings. These spaces offer tranquility and personalized service for an immersive dining journey, priced at 5,000 JPY per room.

 led by the expert chef, who trained at prestigious establishments like Kikusuirou and Gion Nishikawa. For 15,000 JPY, gain insider knowledge of traditional techniques and elevate your culinary skills while embracing the philosophy of cherishing the present moment.

 that highlight local ingredients such as Matsuba crab, Yamato beef, and fresh seafood.

 in an intimate and elegant setting that makes every guest feel special.

 like grilled conger eel with prune sauce and mackerel nigiri that have earned the restaurant two Michelin stars.

Located at 3 Nabeyachō in the enchanting city of Nara, NARA NIKON is a must-visit for food lovers and culture seekers. Reservations are recommended to secure your spot at this popular dining gem. The establishment accepts credit and debit cards, serves beer and wine, and offers dine-in experiences with thoughtfully maintained restrooms, though it does not have outdoor seating or cater to children.

Embark on a journey of taste and tradition at NARA NIKON, where every meal is a celebration of the present moment and culinary excellence.

Indulge in exquisite kaiseki dining featuring seasonal ingredients and attentive service at NARA NIKON. Reserve your table for an unforgettable culinary journey!

Experience Luxurious Kaiseki at NARA NIKON, Nara

Plan your visit to NARA NIKON with insider tips on dining reservations, must-try dishes, and nearby attractions in Nara. Make the most of your culinary adventure!

Explore NARA NIKON: Tips & Itinerary in Nara

Discover the history and accolades of NARA NIKON, a Michelin-starred restaurant celebrated for exceptional kaiseki cuisine and serene dining ambiance.

Dine at Nara Nikon: Exquisite Japanese Cuisine in Nara

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