15 Restaurants You Should Visit in Nara Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Guide-

Update-date: Apr 05 2024

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

Categories: Nara

Many world heritage sites are located in Nara, but there are also a lot of good restaurants there. Check out these recommended restaurants that are perfect for a meal when you visit Nara for sightseeing.

See full listings of restaurants found in and around Nara.

1. Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu

Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu, a soy sauce brewery in Nara that is over 300 years old, was renovated into an accommodation facility in 2020. Here, guests can experience Japanese food culture and enjoy dishes made with the brewery's special soy sauce.
Maruto Shoyu is made from locally sourced soybeans and wheat from Nara Prefecture, fermented with yeast that has been cultivated for over 300 years. Known for its mild saltiness and rich flavor, it gives off a delightful aroma when freshly produced. To experience this fresh fragrance, it is recommended to pair it with "Otsukuri" (sashimi). In soups and broths, the mild "heated soy sauce" enhances flavors.

Maruto's Takikomi Gohan, infused with moromi (unrefined soy sauce lees), releases a savory soy sauce aroma upon opening the lid. The restaurant's menu highlights Nara's distinct ingredients, including home-grown vegetables, Yamato beef, and Yamato pork, accentuated with various applications of soy sauce. Diners are invited to immerse themselves in the unique flavors exclusive to Maruto.

Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 12:00 pm) / Dinner 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (L.O. 6:30 pm) *Please see the official website for temporary closures.
Closed: Wednesday, the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays
Average price: [Dinner] 13,200 JPY / [Lunch] 5,500 JPY
Access: 10-minute by taxi from Kintetsu Tawaramoto Station
Address: 170, Iyodo, Tawaramoto-cho, Shiki-gun, Nara Map
More Details Reservation

2. Kitsune

Kitsune, a sukiyaki haven just an 8-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, is the creation of Chef Shusaku Toba, renowned for Sio in Yoyogi-Uehara. Indulge in the "Kitsune Full Course," a culinary journey featuring Yamato beef sukiyaki and diverse local dishes. The experience concludes with Tsukigase's Hōjicha tea. With exclusive, fully equipped private rooms, Kitsune is not just a restaurant but an immersive celebration space for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, offering an unforgettable taste of Nara's culinary delights.

Kitsune

Open: Lunch 11:00 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (L.O. 8:00 pm)
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY / [Lunch] 4,000 JPY
Access: 5-minutes walk from Exit 1 of Kintetsu Nara Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line / Past Higashimuki Shopping Street, it's one street back from Sarusawa Pond
Address: Shika Saru Kitsune Building, 22, Ganriin-Cho, Nara-Shi, Nara Map
More Details Reservation

3. Ristorante Borgo Konishi

Guests can savor the culinary delight of the specialty Pici, a hand-rolled pasta tossed in a rich combination of tomato sauce and sauce americaine. The restaurant takes pride in sourcing only the finest ingredients, including organically grown vegetables from nearby Uda City, authentic Ezo venison from Hokkaido through a trusted distributor, and fresh Japanese tiger prawns directly from the port. Ensuring a seamless dining experience, the focus is on providing uninterrupted service that allows guests to relax and enjoy their meal without any disruptions. Join the restaurant and embark on a flavorful journey that transports diners to a world of culinary bliss.

Ristorante Borgo Konishi

Open: [Tuesdays-Sundays/Holidays] Lunch 11:00-15:00 (last order 14:00) / Dinner 18:00-23:00 (last order 21:30)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 6,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: 1 minute walk from Kintetsu Nara station; go straight down Konishi Sakura street, and it will be on your right.
Address: 2F Flats Konishi, 24 Konishi-cho, Nara, Nara

4. Teppanyaki Sanga

Located on the hotel's basement floor, Teppanyaki Sanga boasts panoramic views of Nara, providing a picturesque backdrop for a memorable dining experience. Renowned for their commitment to excellence, the restaurant proudly serves fresh cuts of A4 or higher grade Yamagata Beef, sourced from a select wholesaler along a special route. Indulge in the beautiful marbling of this premium beef, offering a rich, savory flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Yamagata Beef is celebrated for its decadently fatty texture, complemented by a refreshing aftertaste. Emphasizing the use of locally-sourced ingredients, the restaurant takes pride in showcasing the flavors of Yamato Vegetables from Nara prefecture.

Teppanyaki Sanga

Open: [Tuesday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY
Access: On the B1F of Piazza Hotel, immediately from the front exit of JR [Nara Station]
Address: B1F, Piazza Hotel, 11-20 Sanjo Honmachi, Nara city, Nara Map

More Details Reservation

5. Yakiniku Shinjo

With its spacious and versatile layout, the restaurant offers accommodations for various gatherings, including large banquets of up to 250 people, multi-generational families, and couples seeking an intimate dining experience. The establishment boasts a range of seating options, including box seats featuring food delivery through two linear lanes, table seats that can serve as semi-private rooms for larger parties, and exclusive private rooms with sunken kotatsu seats, ensuring a relaxing ambiance for all guests. Indulge in the satisfying "Shinjo Set," a hearty menu featuring all the essential Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) items. For special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays, the "Dessert Plate with Message" is a highly sought-after choice, adding a touch of elegance and glamour to the celebration.

Yakiniku Shinjo

Open: 11:00 am - 11:00 pm (L.O.10:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,800 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: 20 minutes by car from Kashiba IC or Horyuji IC
Address: 812-1, Hirao, Koryo-cho, Kitakatsuragi-gun, Nara Map
More Details Reservation

6. Dining Kappo Nishida

Recognized in the prestigious Michelin Guide Nara 2022 Special Edition, Dining Kappo Nishida goes above and beyond in delivering a culinary experience that surpasses mere deliciousness. With a deep-rooted commitment to the fundamentals of Japanese cuisine, the skilled chefs pour their heart and soul into every dish. Meticulously selecting the finest seasonal ingredients, the master chef crafts creations that not only tantalize the taste buds but also add vibrant colors to the dining table. Each visit to the restaurant promises a new and delightful culinary adventure, as the menu evolves with fresh and innovative flavors. While perfect for banquets and business entertainment, Dining Kappo Nishida warmly welcomes families, making it an ideal destination for shared meals and cherished moments.

Dining Kappo Nishida

Open: Lunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 14,000 JPY / [Lunch] 7,500 JPY
Access:
Address: 2-9-4, Horai, Nara-shi, Nara

7. Shunkai Jaya Fukuda

Nestled in Gojo, Nara, Shunkai Jaya Fukuda is a beloved Japanese restaurant adored by locals. With over 45 years of expertise in handling fresh fish, the owner's culinary prowess highlights the finest flavors of seasonal seafood. The heart of the restaurant lies in the daily delivery of freshly caught fish from the market, ensuring an authentic and unparalleled taste experience. Immerse yourself in the true essence of fresh fish through a variety of delectable options, including the abundant and artfully presented Fresh Sashimi Platter, the ever-changing seasonal delights of Kaiseki Dishes, and the satisfying indulgence of the Yokozuna Chanko Hotpot.

Shunkai Jaya Fukuda

Open: [Tuesday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 3,500 JPY
Access: 3 minutes drive from the Gojo Interchange on the Keinawa Expressway. Head south past the A Co-op (supermarket) at the Denen 2-chome intersection, and the restaurant is immediately on the right side.
Address: 3-9-7, Denen, Gojo, Nara Map
More Details Reservation

8. Trattoria Piano

The establishment presents a culinary experience to savor with its signature Seasonal Roasted Fish. Meticulously chosen fresh fish from Tosashimizu, along with locally sourced ingredients from Nara, converge in this delightful dish. The Yamato duck, raised in Gose, captivates guests with its harmonious blend of lean and fatty meat, offering a mild flavor that even those who typically shy away from duck can appreciate. Complemented by seasonal elements like radish and spinach, the dish undergoes a captivating transformation that mirrors the changing seasons. Guided by a commitment to highlight the best of each season's offerings, the menu is a result of passionate experimentation by the devoted team. Embark on a culinary journey that pays homage to the beauty of seasonality.

Trattoria Piano

Open: 1F Lunch 11:00 - 15:00 (last order 14:30) / 1F Dinner 15:00 - 24:00 (last order 23:00) [Sunday and Last Day of Long Holidays] 15:00 - 23:00 (last order 22:00). 2F Lunch 11:00 - 15:00 (last order 14:30) / 2F Dinner 17:00 - 23:00 (last order 22:00)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,500 JPY / [Lunch] 1,300 JPY
Access: 5 minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line, the building to the east of the Nanto Bank Headquarters.
Address: 15-1 Hashimoto-cho, Nara, Nara

9. Nihonryori Kagariya

Experience the essence of traditional Japanese cuisine at Nihonryori Kagariya/ Located in the heart of Nara, this esteemed restaurant immerses guests in the rich culinary traditions that define Japanese gastronomy. The ambiance reflects the beauty and elegance of Japanese culture, providing a captivating backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. Expert chefs meticulously craft each dish, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets. From impeccably prepared sushi and sashimi to artfully designed kaiseki courses, the menu presents a symphony of flavors and textures.

Nihonryori Kagariya

Open: [Monday, Wednesday ~ Sunday, Holidays, Day Before Holidays] Lunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (L.O. 1:30 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm)
Closed: There are other irregular holidays, and the year-end and New Year holidays may be closed due to group acceptance.
Average price: [Lunch] 2,300 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Nara Station on the JR Yamato Line.
Address: 1-58 Aburasaka-cho, Nara City, Nara

10. Shiki no aji Tsuboi

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Experience the essence of each season's flavors at Shiki no aji Tsuboi. With over 30 years of expertise, Chef Wakiyama ensures that every dish reflects the highest level of taste and quality. From satisfying lunch options to creative dinner courses and flavorful hot pot dishes, there is something to please every palate. The inviting interior offers a range of seating options, including cozy sunken kotatsu seats and welcoming counter seats. Whether it's a casual meal or a special occasion, Shiki no aji Tsuboi provides a delightful dining experience for all.

Shiki no aji Tsuboi

Open: Lunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: ※ Closed on New Year's Day only
Average price: [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: 12-minute walk from Eigan Station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line.
Address: 600-1 Tokiwa-machi, Kashihara City, Nara

11. Sukiyaki and Beef Mabushi Momoshiki Nara Main Store

9. Sukiyaki and Beef Mabushi Momoshiki Nara Main Store

With a deep love for the serene land of Nara and heartfelt gratitude towards its people and visitors, Momoshiki aims to share the discoveries and experiences found in Nara with as many individuals as possible. Inspired by the bygone era of Nara's status as an ancient capital, our establishment seeks to recreate the lavish feasts once enjoyed in the imperial court with a modern touch. At the heart of our menu is the exquisite "Momoshiki Special Sukiyaki," a luxurious dish featuring prized ingredients from Nara, including the renowned "Yamato Beef." Renowned since the Kamakura period, this premium A4-grade Wagyu beef boasts a tender texture and exceptional flavor, allowing guests to savor the finest culinary indulgence Nara has to offer.

Sukiyaki and Beef Mabushi Momoshiki Nara Main Store

Open: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: 1st Monday / Others (December 6, 2021, January 11th and 12th, 2022, February 7th)
Average price: [Lunch] 1,500 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Stion on the Kintestu Nara Line/
Address: 2F Asakawa Harvest Bldg., 5-1 Higashimukai-Nakamachi, Nara City, Nara

12. Ubusuna no Sato TOMIMOTO

Ubusuna no Sato TOMIMOTO is a luxurious establishment that has transformed the more than 100-year-old ancestral home of Kenkichi Tomimoto, the first living national treasure recognized in 1955. Located in a prestigious space adorned with the revered calligraphy of "Gofu Jyuuu" bestowed by Ono Genmyo, the head priest of Horyuji Temple, this venue offers the opportunity to savor exquisite kaiseki cuisine while admiring the changing seasons of the ancient capital, Yamato. The master chef, who has been serving since the restaurant's inception, prioritizes the allure of the ingredients, dynamically expressing the daily "omakase course" without being bound by conventions.

Ubusuna no Sato TOMIMOTO

Open: [Monday, Wednesday ~ Sunday, Holidays] Other 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

[Monday, Wednesday ~ Sunday, Holidays] Other 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

[Wednesday ~ Sunday,Holidays] Dinner from 5:00 pm

Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Lunch] 3,000 JPY
Address: 1442, Higashi Asu, Asu-machi, Ikoma-gun, Nara

13. Aji no Tabibito Roman (Nara-shi Tsurumai Higashi-machi, Japanese Cuisine)

4. Aji no Tabibito Roman (Nara-shi Tsurumai Higashi-machi, Japanese Cuisine)

With its rare circular counter seats, diners are able to experience not just the taste and smell of the food, but they can also see and hear the owner chopping away with his knife in the kitchen. Here, they serve lunch and dinner courses (lunch 5,400 JPY, dinner 10,800 JPY) that usually change every month. There are 2 items in the courses that are especially popular - the [Egg Somen], which is a dish that took the owner over 5 years to perfect, and their [Pudding], made with special milk from a Kyoto farm, wasanbon (a type of high-quality sugar), and eggs from Tenri, Nara. The restaurant has many fans who visit from far-off places every month to try these courses. It's definitely a place you wouldn't want to miss out on!

Aji no Tabibito Roman

Open: [Monday,Tuesday] Other 11:00 - [Sunday,Thursday - Saturday,Holidays] Other 18:30 -
Closed: It will be two days off to prepare for the changeover of the menu at the beginning of the month or the end of the month.
Average price: [Dinner] 8,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,050 JPY
Address: 2F VIV Bldg., 2-13 Tsurumai-Higashimachi, Nara City, Nara

14. Ristorante La casa mia (Nara-shi Nimyohirano, Italian)

6. Ristorante La casa mia (Nara-shi Nimyohirano, Italian)

Here, you can enjoy Italian food made with local Nara vegetables and meat, seafood from Seto region, and ingredients imported from Italy. Do try their [Tagliatelle with Porcini Tossed in Seasonal Truffle] (reservations required). Their homemade tagliatelle made with Hokkaido wheat and egg yolk of Nara jidori (local chicken) is chewy and full of flavor. Paired with the aromatic Porcini mushrooms and seasonal truffle, it becomes an absolutely delectable meal. With the jazz music playing in the background and the sophisticated atmosphere, it's a great place to enjoy quality Italian food.

Ristorante La casa mia

Open: [Weekday,Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 18:00 - 22:30 (last order 20:30)Lunch 11:30 - 15:30 (last order 14:00)[Sunday] Dinner 18:00 - 22:00 (last order 20:00)
Closed: 【We will correspond on the whole day, there may be a day off if there is no reservation. Please make a reservation for the menu.
Average price: [Lunch] 4,000 JPY
Access: 20-minute walk from Tomio Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line.
Address: 1-1699-1 Futana Hirano, Nara City, Nara

15. Torisetsu Gakuen-mae Branch (Nara-shi Gakuen Kita, Izakaya)

10. Torisetsu Gakuen-mae Branch (Nara-shi Gakuen Kita, Izakaya)

This restaurant is really particular about selecting and using the best chicken in its dishes, one of which is the Kyo Aka ji-dori (Kyo Aka chicken). Their [Omakase Yakitori 5 Skewers] (680 JPY) (selection of 5 chicken skewers) is a must-try dish. Each of the different chicken cuts used is from different types of chicken that have been carefully selected from various places around the country. Himalayan salt is then used to further bring out the flavor of the grilled chicken. Drop by this restaurant with a trendy modern Japanese atmosphere and lose yourself in the delightful chicken dishes that they serve!

Torisetsu Gakuen-mae Branch

Open: Dinner 17:00 - 00:00 (last order 23:00)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,500 JPY
Access: 2-minute walk from Gakuenmae Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line.
Address: 1F Wako Bldg., 1-1-12 Gakuen Kita, Nara City, Nara Prefecture

16. Ristorante L'incontro (Nara-shi Yakushido-cho, Italian)

14. Ristorante L'incontro (Nara-shi Yakushido-cho, Italian)

Ristorante L'incontro is a restaurant that only serves course meals for customers visiting for the first time (lunch from 2,500 JPY, dinner from 6,000 JPY). For appetizers, you'll be able to sample various items, starting with luxurious ham, in the [Home Made Processed Meat] that's been carefully made by the chef to retain as much of the meat's natural flavor as possible. You can also try [Gibier Dishes] here! Meat such as wild boar and deer procured from hunters and ducks hunted by the chief feature in the dish. This restaurant is housed in a 100-year-old machiya (old merchant's house) with a relaxing environment, making it a lovely place to enjoy some Japanese-influenced Italian cuisine!

Ristorante L'incontro

Open: [Sunday - Tuesday,Thursday - Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 18:00 - 22:00 (last order 22:00) / Lunch 11:30 - 14:30 (last order 14:30)
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Lunch] 3,000 JPY
Access: 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line.
Address: 9 Yakushido-cho, Nara City, Nara

How do they sound? The food is delicious of course, but many of the restaurants are stylish and have a great atmosphere too. With 15 to choose from, you'll definitely be able to find one that suits your mood on any given day!

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.