Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Shinjuku

Seika Kobayashi is renowned for its exquisite Japanese cuisine, offering seasonal courses that highlight the freshest ingredients. The intimate setting, featuring private rooms and counter seating, allows guests to witness the chef's culinary artistry firsthand. While the dining experience is on the higher end, patrons often find it to be a memorable and satisfying experience.

Seika Kobayashi: An Exclusive Japanese Culinary Gem in Shinjuku City Tokyo Japan 1600007 Japan Seika Kobayashi MPRC4W Shinjuku City Tokyo Japan Restaurant Point of Interest Food Establishment DineIn Reviews Places ChijuztmdfkmggaRtjq6ganE4c Revi... 

Discover Seika Kobayashi's refined Japanese dining experience in the heart of Arakichō, Shinjuku City.

Tucked away in a quiet back alley of Arakichō, Seika Kobayashi offers a truly exceptional journey into Japanese cuisine that celebrates seasonal and premium ingredients. Since relocating from Roppongi in 2016, this intimate restaurant has become a sanctuary for food enthusiasts seeking carefully prepared traditional dishes with a modern touch.

Owner and chef Yuji Kobayashi's philosophy is rooted in the belief that "there are few things in this world that are truly delicious," and this conviction shines through in every dish, especially those centered on fresh fish. The dining atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with guests encouraged to remove their shoes and relax as they observe the chef's meticulous preparation of each plate.

 with only up to six guests per evening ensuring personal attention.

 that transform traditional Japanese cuisine into a memorable experience.

 with cozy private rooms that foster friendly conversation with the chef.

 reflecting the chef’s dedication to quality and seasonal freshness.

Awarded a prestigious star in the Tokyo 2023 gourmet guide, Seika Kobayashi is a must-visit for those who crave an authentic and luxurious Japanese dining adventure.

Guests can look forward to a stunning variety of traditional Japanese dishes, carefully crafted to highlight the natural flavors of fish and seafood. Signature dishes include the large, crispy-on-the-outside yet fluffy-on-the-inside grilled cutlassfish, the outstanding pickled firefly squid, and rare meat dishes such as beef grilled with aromatic Japanese pepper and sukiyaki-style sauce.

The dining experience culminates with a comforting rice porridge made using sake-steamed soup stock, offering a satisfying and memorable end to the meal. Each dish is served in exquisite bowls and plates that enhance the presentation and the overall dining pleasure.

Visitors praise the beautiful presentation, generous portions, and the intimate, private rooms that make every visit feel like a special occasion. Despite a language barrier, the chef’s thoughtful efforts to communicate enhance the warmth and personalized feel of the experience.

While the price point is on the higher end, many diners find the quality, atmosphere, and attention to detail well worth the investment for a memorable evening in Tokyo’s vibrant Shinjuku district.

Frequently asked questions about Seika Kobayashi

What is the reservation policy at Seika Kobayashi?

 Reservations are required and can be made by phone or through the Pocket Concierge service. The restaurant accommodates up to three groups per day, ensuring an exclusive dining experience.

What is the price range for meals at Seika Kobayashi?

 Lunch courses are priced at 23,000 JPY, while dinner courses are at 28,000 JPY. These prices reflect the use of premium, seasonal ingredients in their dishes.

Experience the heart of authentic Japanese cuisine with unparalleled craftsmanship and hospitality at Seika Kobayashi—where every meal is a celebration of flavor, tradition, and intimacy.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the serene back alleys of Arakichō, Shinjuku City, Seika Kobayashi is a distinguished Japanese restaurant that offers an exquisite dining experience. Known for its carefully-prepared Japanese cuisine, this intimate eatery is the brainchild of Chef Yuji Kobayashi, who emphasizes the importance of high-quality ingredients, particularly fish. With a limited seating capacity, Seika Kobayashi provides a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying traditional Japanese food with close friends or family.

Seika Kobayashi specializes in an array of traditional Japanese dishes, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's menu is designed to provide an authentic taste of Japan, featuring:

Grilled cutlassfish, known for its crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

Pickled firefly squid, a standout dish praised for its exceptional flavor.

Grilled beef with Japanese pepper, served with a luxurious sukiyaki-style sauce.

Sake-steamed black-throated blackthroat head, known for its rich flavor.

Rice porridge made with sake-steamed soup stock, a comforting finish.

Located at 10-17 Arakichō, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Seika Kobayashi is easily accessible and surrounded by the vibrant energy of Shinjuku. After enjoying a meal at this remarkable restaurant, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as:

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a beautiful park perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, offering panoramic views of the city.

Golden Gai, famous for its narrow alleys filled with tiny bars and nightlife.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfMXFUY2dBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuztMDfKMGGARTjq_6GAnE4c/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfMXFUY2dBRRAB

Savor the sophisticated flavors of carefully-prepared Japanese cuisine
Since opening in Roppongi in 2009, the prestigious Japanese cuisine restaurant Seikakobayashi has relocated to a quiet back alley in Arakicho in 2016.

The owner chef Yuji Kobayashi is extremely particular about the ingredients, believing "there are few things in this world that are truly delicious," and offers a menu centered on fish. Reservations are limited to two parties for a maximum of six people every evening. After taking off their shoes and entering the cozy restaurant, guests can observe the chef carefully preparing the food entirely by himself.

Here you can spend a wonderful evening filled with a stunning variety of traditional Japanese cuisine and friendly conversation with the chef. The cozy atmosphere will make you feel at home and is recommended for dinner with close friends.

※ Awarded 1 star on world-renowned gourmet guide Tokyo 2023

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNSajZDZkJREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuztMDfKMGGARTjq_6GAnE4c/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNSajZDZkJREAE

The food along with the presentation and the dishes they were served on were beautiful.  We had a beautiful private room to ourselves, which made it very intimate.  The food was delicious and plentiful!  We were very comfortably full by the time dinner was over.  Although we didn't speak Japanese, the chef went out of his way to translate using his mobile app and we appreciated the extra effort he went through.  I would highly recommend and it is on our list of places to return to if we come back to Japan.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM0NkpITTlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuztMDfKMGGARTjq_6GAnE4c/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM0NkpITTlnRRAB

素晴らしい料理を素敵な器で提供してくれる和食店。
予約は昼夜合わせて１日３組までとのことで、訪問時は貸し切りだった。
店主を独り占めで色んな話ができるのため、会話をしながら料理を楽しみたい方にはおすすめ。
特に気に入った料理は以下。
太刀魚の焼き物はかなり大きなサイズで外側がサクッとしていて中はふわふわ。魚の焼き物にふわふわという表現が使えることに驚く一品。
ホタルイカの沖漬けは抜群。今までで食べた中で断トツにうまい沖漬け。
和食店では珍しいお肉料理は、牛のあぶりに花山椒をたっぷりのせたものをすき焼き風のたれで。かなり贅沢な料理。
ノドグロのお頭は、焼いた後酒蒸しに。こちらも大きなサイズなので身が少ないイメージのお頭とは違いたっぷりと身がついていた。最後の〆は酒蒸しの出汁を使った雑炊。
値段は結構高いのでそう頻繁には行けないけど、また季節が変わったら訪れたい。

A Japanese restaurant that serves great food in beautiful bowls.
Reservations can be made for up to three groups per day, including day and night, and at the time of my visit, it was reserved for private use.
You can have the owner all to yourself and talk about all kinds of things, so it's recommended for people who want to enjoy their food while having a conversation.
Below are some of my favorite dishes.
The grilled cutlassfish was quite large, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. This is a surprising dish that can be used to describe grilled fish as fluffy.
The pickled firefly squid is outstanding. By far the best Okizuke I've ever eaten.
The meat dish, which is rare at a Japanese restaurant, is grilled beef topped with plenty of Japanese pepper and served with a sukiyaki-style sauce. Quite a luxurious dish.
The head of the black-throated blackthroat is grilled and then steamed with sake. This one is also large in size, so unlike the head which gives the impression that it doesn't have a lot of body, it had a lot of body. The final dish is rice porridge made with sake steamed soup stock.
The prices are quite high, so I don't go there often, but I'd like to visit again when the seasons change.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURjd051d1R3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuztMDfKMGGARTjq_6GAnE4c/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURjd051d1R3EAE

お昼に訪問し、広い個室で貸し切り状態。なんだかお忍びできてる雰囲気でとても良かったです。笑

お値段は少し高いですが、どのお料理も美味しくて満足でした。
昼に行ったので、次は夜にも行ってみたいです。

I visited at noon and had a large private room reserved for myself. It was really nice to have the atmosphere of being incognito. lol

Although the prices are a little high, all the dishes were delicious and satisfying.
Since I went during the day, I would like to go at night next time.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNDbXM2WEdnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuztMDfKMGGARTjq_6GAnE4c/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNDbXM2WEdnEAE

一つ一つがしっかりとしたボリュームと味でおいしくいただきました。
ごちそうさまでした。

Each one was delicious with a solid volume and taste.
Thank you for the meal.

Experience Award-Winning Japanese Cuisine at Seika Kobayashi, Shinjuku

Seika Kobayashi, established in 2009, has been recognized for its dedication to high-quality Japanese cuisine, earning a Michelin star for its exceptional offerings.

Seika Kobayashi History and Legacy in Tokyo's Culinary Scene 

Seika Kobayashi stands as a beacon of refined Japanese gastronomy, proudly rooted in Tokyo's vibrant culinary landscape. Since its establishment in 2009, this distinguished restaurant has consistently captivated food enthusiasts with its meticulous approach to traditional Japanese cuisine. The founder and owner chef, Yuji Kobayashi, is renowned for his rigorous selection of ingredients and his philosophy that there are few things in this world truly delicious, a principle that permeates every dish served.

Seika Kobayashi's journey began in the bustling district of Roppongi, Tokyo, where it quickly earned a reputation for excellence.

 This initial phase laid the foundation for the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity.

 Seika Kobayashi was established in Roppongi, Tokyo, marking the beginning of its acclaimed culinary journey.

 The restaurant relocated to a quiet back alley in Arakicho, Shinjuku City, enhancing its intimate and authentic dining experience.

 Seika Kobayashi was honored by being selected for the prestigious Tabelog Japanese cuisine TOKYO 'Hyakumeiten', a testament to its exceptional culinary artistry.

Distinctive Features and Dining Experience

Seika Kobayashi is well-known for its exclusive reservation policy, catering to only two parties with a maximum of six guests each evening. This exclusivity ensures a personalized and serene dining atmosphere. Guests are invited to remove their shoes and step into a cozy setting where they can witness Chef Kobayashi masterfully preparing dishes with precision and care. The menu primarily highlights premium fish selections, prepared with an artistry that honors traditional Japanese culinary techniques.

 Awarded a Michelin star, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence.

 The limited seating and private ambiance create a unique dining experience perfect for close friends or special occasions.

 Dishes are crafted with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques, with a special focus on quality fish.

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Good for Children

In the vibrant heart of Shinjuku, where the pulse of Tokyo beats strongest, Seika Kobayashi beckons food enthusiasts with its tantalizing offerings and inviting ambiance. This gem, tucked within the charming streets of Arakichō, promises a culinary journey that pays homage to Japan's rich culinary heritage while embracing contemporary flair. As you step through the doors, the allure of wonderfully crafted dishes fills the air, revealing a fine balance between tradition and innovation. The decor, adorned with warm wood tones and delicate nuances, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Here, every meal tells a story, from the meticulously prepared sushi, delicate and fresh, to the robust flavors of ramen that warm even the coldest days. In a bustling city where many establishments boast a menu, Seika Kobayashi stands out with its focus on seasonal ingredients. The chefs pride themselves on sourcing locally, ensuring that each bite reflects the freshest aspects of Tokyo’s diverse environment. As you savor exquisite bites, feel the rhythm of the city surrounding you, with Shinjuku’s iconic neon lights barely whispering through the windows. This is more than just a place to eat; it’s a haven for the senses. The symphony of sizzling sounds from the kitchen, the vibrant colors of the dishes, and the tantalizing aromas create a melange that wraps around you, inviting you to linger. Seika Kobayashi is not merely a restaurant but an experience—one that captures the essence of Japanese dining and highlights the delight of exploring Shinjuku's culinary landscape, making it a must-visit in the city where tradition and modernity dance hand in hand.

Seika Kobayashi

Experience exquisite Japanese cuisine with seasonal courses at Seika Kobayashi.

Lunch Course

Dinner Course

Seika Kobayashi Menu

Seika Kobayashi Menu Overview in Shinjuku Tokyo Japan Kitchen Excellence at Its Finest 

Nestled in a serene back alley of Arakichō, Shinjuku City, the prestigious Seika Kobayashi offers an intimate dining experience that celebrates the art of traditional Japanese cuisine. Chef Yuji Kobayashi meticulously crafts each dish with a passion for the finest ingredients, particularly emphasizing fresh fish and seasonal flavors. The menu is a refined journey through Japan’s culinary heritage, presented with elegance and precision.

Begin your meal with exquisite appetizers highlighting seasonal seafood delicacies, including the renowned pickled firefly squid (hotaru ika okizuke), acclaimed as one of the best renditions of this traditional dish. Each starter is thoughtfully prepared to awaken your palate and set the tone for the culinary journey ahead.

The main courses at Seika Kobayashi are a masterclass in Japanese culinary craftsmanship. Signature dishes include the large grilled cutlassfish, which surprises with its crispy exterior and incredibly fluffy interior — a rare textural delight. For those seeking a luxurious touch, the grilled beef adorned with a generous sprinkle of Japanese pepper and served with sukiyaki-style sauce offers a savory richness uncommon in traditional Japanese menus. Another standout is the black-throated blackthroat fish head, expertly grilled then steamed with sake to reveal succulent, abundant meat. Each dish is a celebration of seasonality and balance, promising a memorable dining experience.

Conclude your exquisite meal with delicately crafted Japanese desserts that complement the savory flavors. The menu occasionally features seasonal sweets designed to provide a subtle, refreshing finish to the dinner course, rounding out the experience with elegance and grace.

Seika Kobayashi offers a refined selection of sake and Japanese whiskey to perfectly accompany their sophisticated menu. Carefully chosen beverages enhance the delicate flavors of each dish, making for a harmonious and elevated dining experience. Beer and wine selections are also available to suit diverse palates.

Seika Kobayashi features exclusive lunch and dinner courses that showcase the best seasonal ingredients with meticulous preparation. The lunch course offers a lighter yet sophisticated experience, while the dinner course delivers a fuller, immersive indulgence in traditional Japanese flavors. Both courses are thoughtfully designed to highlight the chef’s philosophy that few things in this world are truly delicious, elevating each bite into a memorable celebration of taste and texture.

 Experience a refined selection of seasonal dishes that capture the essence of Japanese culinary tradition in a serene setting.

 Indulge in an extensive multi-course feast where every dish is a testament to seasonal freshness and masterful technique.

Savor authentic Japanese cuisine at Seika Kobayashi in Shinjuku. Experience delicious flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Book your table now!

Seika Kobayashi: Authentic Japanese Dining in Shinjuku

Shinjuku City Municipality

Two private rooms available for intimate dining experiences.

Private Rooms

Six counter seats offering a direct view of the chef's culinary artistry.

Counter Seating

Seika Kobayashi: refined japanese dining in shinjuku city tokyo japan  you must experience this culinary gem 

Nestled in the tranquil backstreets of Arakichō, Shinjuku City, Seika Kobayashi is a distinguished Japanese restaurant that promises an exclusive and unforgettable dining experience. Renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and a menu that celebrates the finest fish and seasonal ingredients, this culinary gem embodies the essence of traditional Japanese haute cuisine. Since relocating from Roppongi in 2016, the restaurant has cultivated an intimate ambiance where every meal is a personal journey guided by owner and chef Yuji Kobayashi.

intimate seating options for a unique culinary journey

Seika Kobayashi offers two exclusive private rooms, ideal for those seeking an intimate setting to enjoy their meal with close companions. These rooms provide a peaceful retreat from the city buzz, perfect for private dinners and special occasions. For guests fascinated by the art of Japanese cuisine, six counter seats line the kitchen, offering an unobstructed view of Chef Kobayashi's expert preparation. This seating arrangement transforms dining into a captivating performance, where you can witness the delicate techniques and passion that go into each dish.

With a philosophy that few things in the world are truly delicious, Chef Yuji Kobayashi carefully selects premium ingredients to craft each dish with precision and reverence. The menu features exquisite traditional Japanese dishes, with a special emphasis on fish, including standout items like crispy yet fluffy grilled cutlassfish and perfectly pickled firefly squid. The rare inclusion of grilled beef with Japanese pepper in a sukiyaki-style sauce adds a luxurious twist to the offerings.

Guests have praised the stunning presentation and generous portions served in beautiful Japanese bowls, enhancing the dining experience. The cozy, home-like atmosphere encourages friendly conversation with the chef, making each dinner not just a meal but a memorable cultural exchange. Non-Japanese speakers will appreciate the chef’s thoughtful efforts to communicate using translation apps, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment.

 with only two parties served each evening to maintain an intimate atmosphere.

 focusing on fresh fish and seasonal, rare delicacies.

Beautiful private rooms and counter seating

 that let you interact with the chef and savor every moment.

Awarded 1 star in the Tokyo 2023 gourmet guide

Located at 10-17 Arakichō in the vibrant Shinjuku district of Tokyo, Seika Kobayashi is the perfect destination for food lovers seeking a refined and authentic Japanese dining experience. The restaurant is open for dinner only and welcomes reservations to maintain its exclusive and cozy setting. Guests can enjoy a full-service bar featuring select beers and wines that complement the exquisite dishes. Credit card payments are accepted for your convenience.

Please note that Seika Kobayashi does not provide takeout or delivery services, and the serene space does not accommodate children or pets, ensuring a tranquil and focused dining environment. Restroom facilities are available on-site for guest comfort.

Tokyo

Experience the art of Japanese cuisine at Seika Kobayashi in Shinjuku! Enjoy intimate dining with seasonal menus & personalized service. Reserve now!

Seika Kobayashi: Exquisite Japanese Dining in Shinjuku

Plan your visit to Seika Kobayashi with practical tips! Discover meal prices, reservation info, and must-try dishes for an unforgettable dining experience.

Seika Kobayashi Itineraries & Tips for Dining

Explore the history of Seika Kobayashi, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Learn about its unique offerings and intimate atmosphere.

Experience Award-Winning Japanese Cuisine at Seika Kobayashi, Shinjuku

Dining & Culinary Delights

Location & Nearby Attractions