Kagurazaka Ishikawa: Exquisite Kaiseki Dining in Tokyo's Heartland

Nestled in the charming streets of Kagurazaka, Shinjuku City , Kagurazaka Ishikawa is a beacon of traditional Japanese culinary craftsmanship. This Michelin 3-star restaurant offers an immersive kaiseki tasting experience where every dish reflects the delicate balance of seasonal flavors and artistic presentation.

A Journey Through Seasonal Elegance

At Kagurazaka Ishikawa, the kaiseki tasting menu showcases refined techniques such as grilling, steaming, frying, and simmering that coax out the subtle essence of premium ingredients. From exquisitely prepared meat and fresh seafood to the exceptional rice served at the end of the course, every bite is thoughtfully crafted to honor the tradition of washoku.

Guests enjoy their meal served on traditional mino-yaki pottery and lacquerware, sipping from vintage Baccarat crystal glassware, all within a serene and minimalist setting. Whether seated at the coveted centuries-old hinoki wood counter or in a private room, the ambiance perfectly complements the exquisite cuisine.

Exceptional Service and Ambiance

Chef-owner Hideki Ishikawa personally ensures each guest feels welcomed and valued, often engaging in warm conversations. The staff’s cheerful and enthusiastic service adds to the overall memorable dining experience. The restaurant also boasts a thoughtfully curated sake list, frequently featuring the coveted Juyondai.

Location : 1f Takamura Building, 5-chōme−37 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan.
Cuisine : Authentic traditional kaiseki washoku with seasonal ingredients and artistic plating.
Ambiance : Minimalist, serene, with seating options including a historic hinoki counter and private rooms.
Service : Attentive, friendly, with the chef greeting guests personally.
Sake Selection : Includes rare vintage options like Juyondai.

Frequently asked questions

What is the price of the kaiseki tasting menu? The kaiseki tasting menu is priced at ¥64,000 per person.
Is a reservation required? Yes, reservations are essential and can be made through the restaurant's official website.
What are the operating hours? The restaurant operates from 5:30 PM to 12:00 AM, closed on Sundays and national holidays.
What payment methods are accepted? Accepted payment methods include cash and major credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, and Diners Club.
Is the restaurant accessible for wheelchair users? Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

Community sentiment

Highly acclaimed for its exceptional kaiseki cuisine and attentive service, Kagurazaka Ishikawa is celebrated by food enthusiasts and critics alike. Diners appreciate the harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation, the meticulous preparation, and the warm, personal atmosphere created by the chef and staff.

A shining beacon of traditional Japanese haute cuisine in Tokyo, Kagurazaka Ishikawa has carved an illustrious path marked by culinary excellence and dedication to kaiseki artistry.

Founded by the visionary Chef Hideki Ishikawa, this acclaimed restaurant has become synonymous with the refined tradition of washoku, Japan’s celebrated culinary heritage. Since its inception, Kagurazaka Ishikawa has epitomized the art of kaiseki — a multi-course dining experience that harmonizes seasonal ingredients with meticulous preparation and elegant presentation.

Milestones in Excellence

Kagurazaka Ishikawa’s journey is distinguished by sustained recognition from the prestigious Michelin Guide. It proudly earned its first set of three Michelin stars in 2009, a testament to Chef Ishikawa’s unwavering commitment to culinary perfection. This elite status has been maintained through the years, reaffirmed in 2016 and again projected into 2025, underscoring the restaurant's consistent delivery of exceptional dining experiences.

Tradition and Ambiance

Kagurazaka Ishikawa offers more than just exquisite flavors; it immerses guests in a serene and minimalist setting, reflecting traditional Japanese aesthetics. The use of artisanal mino-yaki ceramics and lacquerware enhances the visual harmony of each dish, while vintage Baccarat crystal glassware elevates the beverage experience. Diners can choose the intimacy of a centuries-old hinoki wood counter or a private room, where the attentive and joyous service complements every course.

2009: Awarded three Michelin stars, marking its arrival among the world’s culinary elite.
2016: Successfully maintained its coveted three Michelin star status through rigorous standards.
2025: Projected continuation of its three Michelin star excellence, reflecting its enduring culinary legacy.

A Destination for Discerning Food Lovers

For those seeking an authentic and elevated Japanese dining experience in Tokyo, Kagurazaka Ishikawa remains a pinnacle destination. The restaurant’s timeless dedication to showcasing seasonal ingredients with subtlety, precision, and artistry ensures that every visit is a memorable journey into the heart of Japanese culinary tradition.

Discover the refined charm of Kagurazaka Ishikawa in Tokyo

Nestled in the historic Kagurazaka neighborhood of Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Kagurazaka Ishikawa offers an exquisite kaiseki dining experience that epitomizes traditional Japanese cuisine. This Michelin 3-star restaurant, consistently acclaimed since 2009, specializes in artfully crafted multi-course meals highlighting seasonal, high-quality ingredients. Beyond exceptional taste, the presentation on elegant mino-yaki and lacquerware, paired with fine vintage Baccarat glassware, elevates every dish into a sensory delight.

Exceptional culinary artistry and intimate ambiance

Kagurazaka Ishikawa’s dishes may appear deceptively simple, whether grilled, steamed, fried, or simmered, but they reveal a masterful coaxing out of subtle seasonal flavors and textures. The chef-owner, Hideki Ishikawa, personally engages with guests, ensuring a welcoming and enthusiastic service experience. The restaurant’s intimate setting, featuring a centuries-old hinoki wood counter and elegant private rooms, complements the meticulous culinary craft, making every visit feel exclusive and refined.

What to know before you go

While the restaurant excels in quality and service, prospective diners should be aware of certain considerations. The price point is notably high, reflecting the premium ingredients and craftsmanship involved. Seating capacity is limited, which means reservations are essential and must be made well in advance to secure a spot. Additionally, the venue does not offer takeout or delivery options, emphasizing an in-person, immersive dining experience.

Highlights that set Kagurazaka Ishikawa apart

Exceptional kaiseki cuisine showcasing seasonal flavors with precision and finesse.
Attentive and personalized service from chef Hideki Ishikawa and his team creates a warm dining atmosphere.
Intimate and elegant setting featuring traditional Japanese aesthetics and historic woodwork.
Consistent Michelin 3-star rating reflecting outstanding quality and recognition since 2009.