Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Stockholm, Sweden

Black Milk Gastro Bar

Gothenburg, Sweden

Brasserie Draken

Malmö, Sweden

Mutantur

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Kenya Safari

with Great Plains Conservation

in Maasai Mara

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

Lucerne

Diners frequently commend the personalized experience, the chef's passion, and the quality of the dishes.

Minamo: An Intimate Japanese Culinary Journey in Lucerne Switzerland's Heartland 

Nestled in the charming city of Lucerne, Minamo offers a truly unique dining experience that transports you to Japan through an artful fusion of local Swiss and authentic Japanese ingredients. This intimate restaurant, located at Haldenstrasse 10, invites just eight guests at a time to savor a multi-course tasting menu crafted by Chef Yutaka, whose passion and precision turn every dish into a masterpiece.

Minamo’s cozy bar setting encourages connection among diners and the chef, creating an atmosphere that’s anything but impersonal or stuffy. Guests often describe the evening as a delightful journey where Chef Yutaka explains each course with meticulous detail, paired expertly by Bodgan — the knowledgeable sommelier specializing in sake. This seamless storytelling elevates the meal beyond food into an immersive cultural experience.

Why Minamo Stands Out Among Lucerne Restaurants

Visitors consistently praise the exquisite balance of flavors and textures in each course, highlighting the skillful blend of traditional Japanese techniques with fresh Swiss ingredients. Beyond the remarkable food, the personalized service and warm hospitality make every guest feel like a valued part of an exclusive culinary event. The extensive sake selection, including non-alcoholic choices, perfectly complements the menu, satisfying both seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers.

A dining space that seats only eight guests ensures privacy and an intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions or thoughtful indulgence.

Impeccable sake selections matched thoughtfully to each course enhance the flavor profile and cultural authenticity.

Chef Yutaka and Bodgan’s dedication to craft and guest experience creates an unforgettable evening that resonates long after the meal ends.

guests rave about the exquisite Japanese cuisine, the intimate setting limited to only eight diners, and the exceptional service that makes every visit truly special. Regular visitors highlight Chef Yutaka’s passion and artistry, noting how each dish reflects thoughtful preparation and authentic flavor. The personalized sake pairings and the warm interaction from the hosts elevate Minamo beyond a meal to a lasting memory.

Minamo accommodates up to eight guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized dining experience.

Is there a dress code for dining at Minamo? 

While there is no strict dress code, smart casual attire is recommended to complement the elegant setting.

How far in advance should I make a reservation? 

Due to limited seating, it's advisable to book several weeks in advance to secure a spot.

Children aged 10 and above are welcome. For younger children, a babysitting service can be arranged.

What is the cancellation policy at Minamo? 

Cancellations made within 48 hours incur a 50% fee of the menu price; within 24 hours, a 100% fee applies.

Europe

Switzerland

Nestled in the heart of Lucerne, Switzerland, Minamo at The Mandarin Oriental offers an **extraordinary culinary journey** that transcends traditional dining. This intimate restaurant, accommodating only eight guests, provides a unique setting where each meal is a meticulously crafted experience. With Chef Yutaka at the helm, diners are treated to a symphony of flavors that harmoniously blend Japanese techniques with local Swiss ingredients.

The dining experience at Minamo is nothing short of spectacular. Guests can expect a **nine-course tasting menu** that showcases seasonal ingredients, each dish presented as a work of art. Highlights include the delicate sashimi, where the fish is sourced from local waters and served with a house-made soy sauce that perfectly complements its freshness. Another standout is the Wagyu beef, seared to perfection, paired with a rich miso glaze that elevates its natural flavors.

Each course is thoughtfully paired with a selection of sake, expertly curated by the sommelier, Viktor. His passion for sake shines through as he shares stories behind each pairing, enhancing the overall experience. The ambiance, characterized by warm lighting and a minimalist design, creates a serene atmosphere that allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the culinary journey.

: With only eight seats, every guest receives personalized attention from Chef Yutaka and his team.

: Each dish is a masterpiece, showcasing the depth of flavors and textures.

: An extensive selection of sake enhances the flavors of each course.

: Minamo is renowned for its intimate dining experience and exquisite Japanese cuisine.

: To experience a unique culinary journey that combines artistry and flavor in a serene setting.

: Minamo is conveniently located near the stunning Lake Lucerne and the historic Chapel Bridge.

Embark on a culinary adventure at Minamo, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and artistry. Reserve your table today and indulge in an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIMy1ERU1REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCXfH0Kz7j0cR11Tn3-6ozQs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIMy1ERU1REAE

Super interesting dinner experience in a setup (bar) for only 8 people. Chef Yutaka guides you through a large number of courses for you to enjoy while having a conversation with the bar. Very interesting!

The food itself was delicious. With some Japanese and local ingredients. We shared a single sake pairing between the two of us, which was more than enough.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3cF9PNDRRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCXfH0Kz7j0cR11Tn3-6ozQs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3cF9PNDRRRRAB

Not many words can explain this amazing experience. From the beginning until the end every detail is taken care of. The amazing depth of the cuisine and preparation is astonishing. Our Chef Yutako was an incredible host and artist. The atmosphere is perfect and makes you travel to japan. A huge selection of Sake is available, as well as non alcoholic choices. Absolutely delicious and an experience that will always have a place in our heart and mind.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfa0lHODZRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCXfH0Kz7j0cR11Tn3-6ozQs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfa0lHODZRRRAB

Minamo at The Mandarin is an unforgettable experience where every detail is thoughtfully crafted. From the food to the service, it’s clear that both Chef Yutaka and Bodgan are true masters of their craft.

Chef Yutaka’s dishes were simply stunning. Each course was a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and presentation, showcasing his incredible attention to detail. Every bite felt like a work of art, with layers of thought and care that elevated the entire dining experience.

Bodgan, with his deep knowledge and passion for sake, added an entirely new dimension to the evening. His pairings were impeccable, and the way he explained the stories and complexities of each sake was engaging and inspiring. His ability to connect the sake to the food made the whole experience even more immersive.

What really stood out was the dedication of both Chef Yutaka and Bodgan to ensuring every detail was perfect. Their passion and precision made for a seamless and unforgettable night. Minamo is not just a meal – it’s an experience that lingers with you long after you leave.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyOWZTb0lBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCXfH0Kz7j0cR11Tn3-6ozQs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyOWZTb0lBEAE

We had a wonderful experience with Chef Yutaka and Viktor.  Far from a stuffy, impersonal dinner that sometimes comes with high cuisine, they made us feel comfortable and welcome.  The evening began with small talk amongst the 8 patrons, Chef, and Viktor (the evening's sommelier).  They were genuinely interested in us and our preferences and quickly made it clear that they aim to please.  Each course was a delightful and delicious surprise as Chef explained his approaches.  While he then assembled our dishes, Viktor would speak about the sake pairing for that particular course.  Both men were knowledgeable, interesting, and engaging and we thoroughly enjoyed out evening.  On this trip, we ate at three Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as a couple of Michelin-recommended.  This was our favorite and we would love to visit again.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3bmVxbG1RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCXfH0Kz7j0cR11Tn3-6ozQs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3bmVxbG1RRRAB

Last night my wife and I experienced the 9-course Japanese dining experience at Restaurant Minamo at the Mandarin Oriental in Luzern.  From the amazing food, to the experience of seeing Yutaka prepare the food, to Max's incredible service and expert Saki pairing, it was a true tour de force of dining.  Thanks for the incredible evening!!

Savor Exquisite Japanese Cuisine at Minamo, Luzern

Minamo is Lucerne's first omakase restaurant, offering an intimate dining experience with a focus on traditional Japanese cuisine.

The Rich History of Minamo in Lucerne, Switzerland.

Nestled in the picturesque city of Lucerne, Minamo is not just a restaurant; it is a culinary journey that seeks to introduce diners to the fine art of Omakase. This exclusive dining experience prioritizes traditional Japanese cuisine, showcasing meticulously crafted dishes that speak of the chef's passion and expertise. With its unique location at the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Minamo has quickly become a standout destination for food enthusiasts in Switzerland.

2023: Minamo opened its doors at the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Lucerne, introducing the Omakase dining concept to the city.

2024: Received 15 points from Gault Millau Switzerland for excellent cuisine and outstanding service.

2025: Featured in Falstaff's Restaurant of the Week, highlighting its exceptional offerings.

Restroom

Live Music

Reservations

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

At the heart of Lucerne, amidst the enchanting landscape that frames this Swiss gem, lies Minamo. This captivating restaurant effortlessly marries the charm of traditional Swiss architecture with a contemporary flair, inviting locals and travelers alike to experience its inviting atmosphere. The culinary offerings at Minamo are a celebration of local ingredients, artfully crafted into dishes that reflect both innovation and tradition. As evening descends, the ambiance transforms into a cozy haven, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Minamo serves not only as a culinary destination but also as a social hub where laughter and live music fill the air.

Minamo

An eight-course traditional Japanese omakase menu featuring seasonal ingredients and classic Japanese techniques.

Chawanmushi with Shiitake mushrooms and Shiso

Miso soup with Kombu, fried tofu, and Sanchopfeffer

Tuna tartare with crème fraîche, Japanese mayonnaise, caviar, and Yuzukosho

Six types of Nigiri

Swiss Wagyu beef with grilled asparagus, black garlic, and sesame

Grilled pineapple with spices, Thai basil, and lime sorbet

Chocolate dessert

Omakase Menu

Nestled in the heart of Lucerne, Minamo offers an exquisite dining experience centered around its renowned Omakase menu. This eight-course traditional Japanese feast masterfully blends seasonal Swiss and Japanese ingredients with time-honored culinary techniques, delivering a journey of flavors that captivates every sense.

Chawanmushi with Shiitake Mushrooms and Shiso

 – A silky egg custard delicately infused with earthy shiitake mushrooms and fragrant shiso leaves, setting the tone for the meal with its refined simplicity.

Miso Soup with Kombu, Fried Tofu, and Sanchopfeffer

 – This comforting starter combines umami-rich kombu seaweed broth with crispy fried tofu and a hint of aromatic Sanchopfeffer pepper, inviting warmth and depth.

Tuna Tartare with Crème Fraîche, Japanese Mayonnaise, and Caviar

 – A luxurious blend of fresh tuna, creamy crème fraîche, and savory Japanese mayonnaise, crowned with exquisite caviar, yuzukosho pepper, and a touch of edible gold leaf to elevate the dish visually and gastronomically.

 – Showcase of the ocean’s bounty with pristine Swiss salmon, tender Japanese sea bass, succulent shrimp, and sweet scallops, complemented by fresh wasabi and pickled ginger for a balanced palate.

Swiss Wagyu Beef with Grilled Asparagus, Black Garlic, and Sesame

 – A decadent dish featuring tender Swiss Wagyu beef paired with charred asparagus, enhanced by the rich complexity of black garlic and the nutty crunch of sesame seeds.

Grilled Pineapple with Spices, Thai Basil, and Lime Sorbet

 – A vibrant and refreshing finale that combines the caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple with exotic spices and the cooling freshness of Thai basil and tangy lime sorbet.

 – A rich, indulgent chocolate treat that perfectly rounds out the meal with its smooth texture and deep cocoa flavors.

Complement your meal with a carefully curated selection of sake, expertly paired by Minamo’s knowledgeable sommelier to enhance each course’s unique flavors. Non-alcoholic options are thoughtfully available to ensure a memorable dining experience for all guests.

Exquisite Japanese culinary craftsmanship meets Swiss seasonal ingredients

 creating a truly unique omakase experience.

Intimate dining setting for personalized interaction with Chef Yutaka

 offering insight into each dish’s thoughtful preparation.

Sake pairings expertly matched to enhance the intricate flavors of the meal

 curated by the knowledgeable sommelier for a perfect harmony in every sip.

Savor authentic Swiss cuisine at Minamo in Lucerne! Indulge in delightful dishes with a scenic lake view. Book your table today!

Minamo Restaurant in Lucerne - Scenic Lake Views

Luzern Municipality

An eight-course traditional Japanese omakase menu served to all diners at the same time, showcasing seasonal ingredients and classic Japanese techniques.

Omakase dining experience

Minamo Restaurant in Lucerne Switzerland - Authentic Japanese Omakase Experience at The Mandarin Oriental Luzern 

Nestled in the heart of Lucerne at Haldenstrasse 10, Minamo offers an exclusive and intimate dining journey that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine with a Swiss touch. This unique restaurant features a cozy bar seating for only eight guests, allowing an up-close and personal experience with Chef Yutaka as he expertly crafts each dish before your eyes. Known for its sophisticated and immersive omakase dining, Minamo stands out among Luzern’s culinary scene as a destination for food lovers seeking authentic, artfully prepared Japanese fare.

At Minamo, every detail is thoughtfully curated to deliver an unforgettable culinary journey. The highlight is the eight-course Omakase menu, priced at 150 CHF, which features seasonal and locally inspired ingredients blended with traditional Japanese techniques. Each course is served simultaneously to all diners, encouraging a communal and conversational atmosphere as Chef Yutaka narrates the story behind every dish. The artistry, precision, and depth of flavor in each plate make this dining experience truly special and immersive.

Exceptional Sake Pairings and Beverage Selection

Complementing the exquisite cuisine is Minamo's curated sake pairing option, available at 50 CHF. The knowledgeable sommelier Bodgan guides guests through a thoughtfully selected array of sakes, chosen to enhance and harmonize with each course. This pairing elevates the dining experience, offering a deeper appreciation for sake's nuanced flavors and its perfect marriage with Japanese culinary craftsmanship. Non-alcoholic options are also available, ensuring all guests find a perfect match to their meal.

What Makes Minamo a Must-Visit in Lucerne

— seating for only eight guests ensures a personalized and engaging experience.

— Chef Yutaka’s precision and passion bring each course to life with exquisite detail and balance.

— Bodgan’s insightful selections create an immersive and educational sake experience.

— The setting evokes a genuine Japanese dining experience right in the heart of Switzerland.

— Warm, knowledgeable staff ensure your evening is seamless and memorable.

Minamo is the perfect destination for discerning travelers and locals alike who crave an exceptional Japanese dining adventure in Lucerne. 

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, seeking a sophisticated night out, or simply eager to explore authentic flavors paired with exquisite sake, Minamo promises a captivating experience that lingers long after the last bite. Reservations are recommended given the intimate setting and high demand for this exclusive culinary gem.

Minamo restaurant lucerne switzerland dining experience review overview and insights 

Nestled within the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Palace in Lucerne, Minamo offers an intimate Japanese dining experience that captivates food lovers seeking culinary artistry and exclusivity. With seating limited to just eight guests, the restaurant invites diners into a cozy, personalized setting where Chef Yutaka crafts an exceptional omakase journey. Guests can expect a meticulously curated series of courses blending authentic Japanese techniques with local Swiss ingredients, resulting in an extraordinary fusion of flavors.

Exceptional culinary craftsmanship and intimate atmosphere

Minamo stands out for its dedication to precision and artistry, with Chef Yutaka guiding guests through a diverse array of delicately prepared courses. This is complemented by the expertise of Bodgan, the sommelier, who offers thoughtfully paired sake selections that deepen the dining experience. The atmosphere evokes a sense of traveling to Japan itself, enhanced by the attentive and engaging service that ensures every detail is flawlessly executed. Recognized by esteemed guides such as Michelin and Gault Millau, the restaurant has earned a reputation for excellence in Japanese haute cuisine.

 with only eight seats ensuring personalized attention and a close connection with the chef and staff.

 showcasing a thoughtful balance of flavors, textures, and presentation.

Highly skilled and passionate chef and sommelier team

 who engage guests with detailed explanations and expert sake pairings.

 thoughtfully curated to complement each course, including non-alcoholic options.

Exclusive setting within the Mandarin Oriental Palace

 offering a luxurious and serene atmosphere perfect for special occasions.

While Minamo delivers an unforgettable dining journey, prospective guests should be aware of several practical considerations. The experience comes at a high price point, reflective of its exclusivity and extraordinary quality, which may not suit all budgets. Additionally, the very limited seating means reservations must be made well in advance to secure a spot. Unlike some restaurants, Minamo does not offer a la carte options or lunch service, focusing solely on a full omakase dinner experience. This focused approach may limit flexibility but ensures a cohesive and complete culinary narrative.

Key takeaways for food lovers and travelers

Minamo is a destination for those seeking a deeply immersive and refined Japanese dining experience in Lucerne. Its intimate setting and chef-led courses create a personalized culinary adventure, enhanced by expert sake pairings and attentive service. While the exclusivity and price may pose barriers, the restaurant’s accolades and guest testimonials highlight a memorable journey that food enthusiasts and connoisseurs will appreciate. Planning ahead and embracing the full omakase format will reward diners with a seamless and artistic evening that celebrates Japanese cuisine’s elegance and innovation.

Luzern-Stadt

Discover Minamo in Luzern, Switzerland, the first omakase restaurant offering authentic Japanese cuisine with seasonal ingredients and chef interactions.

Minamo Swiss Omakase Restaurant, Lucerne - Experience Exclusive Japanese Cuisine

Enjoy an intimate eight-course Japanese omakase at Minamo in Luzern, featuring seasonal ingredients, chef interaction, and premium sake and wine pairings.

Minamo Lucerne: Fine Japanese Dining, Seasonal Menus & Sake Pairing

Learn about Minamo, the pioneering Japanese omakase restaurant in Lucerne, offering exclusive culinary experiences with a focus on traditional Japanese techniques.

Discover the Omakase Menu at Minamo

Starters

Mains

Desserts

Drinks and Specials

Stiefels Hopfenkranz

Lucide Restaurant

Restaurant Maihöfli » Fleisch | Vegan | Fisch | Vegetarisch