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

Update-date: Mar 25 2025

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

Categories: Nara

15 Best Restaurants You Should Visit in 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. Kamameshi Chazuke GRANCHA

Kamameshi Chazuke GRANCHA, located in the charming Higashimuki Shopping Street, offers a sophisticated Japanese-style space on the second floor. Here, you can enjoy Kamameshi, rice cooked in an iron pot with the finest rice and dashi broth, prepared to order. When you lift the lid, the rice is fluffy and shiny, with steam rising from the pot. The rich aroma and sweet flavor of the rice will warm you up. Finish your meal with aromatic Yamato tea poured over the rice, accompanied by housemade pickles. The restaurant also offers spacious, reservation-only private rooms, ideal for banquets, business gatherings, or family meals.

Kamameshi Chazuke GRANCHA

Open: [Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday] Lunch 11:00 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 3:00 pm) / Dinner 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm (L.O. 7:00 pm), [Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] 11:00 am - 8:00 pm (L.O. 7:00 pm)
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 1,500 JPY / [Lunch] 1,500 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station
Address: 2F, GRANCHA, 22, Higashimukinaka-machi, Nara-shi, Nara Map
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2. GRANCHA Koufukusaryou

At GRANCHA Koufukusaryou, enjoy the rich flavors of Yamato Tea, grown in Nara’s unique climate. A must-try is the 'Koufuku Mochi and Yamato Matcha Set,' featuring mochi with different matcha intensities, paired with smooth cream. The shop offers an extensive drink menu and the unique experience of preparing your own tea. With its modern Japanese-style setting and warm hospitality, it's the perfect place to relax and savor Nara’s tea culture after shopping or sightseeing.

GRANCHA Koufukusaryou

Open: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm (L.O. 5:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 1,000 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station
Address: 22, Higashimukinaka-machi, Nara-shi, Nara Map
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3. Motsusui Nara-Sanjo Branch

Motsusui, nestled between Kintetsu-Nara and Nara Stations, is known for its hormone dishes and specialties. It offers kushiyaki skewers with fresh horumon and beef, and Motsunabe made with special beef bone broth, ideal for cold seasons. Complement the meals with a variety of drinks, like pickled lemon sour. With a spacious and stylish interior, Motsusui is perfect for dates, banquets, or dinner parties with out-of-town guests, promising a delightful culinary experience.

Motsusui Nara-Sanjo Branch

Open: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,500 JPY
Access: 6-minute walk from Nara Station on JR Lines, Kintetsu-Nara Station on Kintetsu Line
Address: 34, Shimosanjo-cho, Nara-shi, Nara Map
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4. 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
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5. 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
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6. 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
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7. Ristorante Borgo Konishi

The restaurant serves hand-rolled, thick pici pasta, tossed in a rich tomato and sauce americaine combination. They use locally grown organic vegetables from Uda City, authentic Ezo venison from Hokkaido, and the freshest Japanese tiger prawns directly from the port. Focused on creating a relaxed dining experience, the restaurant has counter seating at a beautiful lacquered bar, with terrace seating available when the weather’s nice. Guests can enjoy their meal while overlooking the serene Nara skyline.

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 Map
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8. 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
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9. Koiki dishes Manso

Koiki Ryori Manso is a one-star Michelin restaurant that specializes in serving the freshest seasonal tastes. It sources its ingredients meticulously, with vegetables shipped directly from Soni Village in Nara Prefecture and seafood sourced seasonally from across the country. The menu, crafted by owner and chef Mr. Nagata, changes weekly, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. Guests not only enjoy the meals, but also appreciate the chance to converse with Mr. Nagata. This beloved establishment has loyal customers spanning three generations. The 25,000 yen course is a special custom-made dish, served at a counter exclusively rented for the guest.

Koiki dishes Manso

Open: Other 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
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10. Sen no mame

Situated in a renovated 50-year-old traditional Japanese house, this restaurant provides private rooms for a relaxed and comfortable dining experience. The owner, Mr. Sato, was raised in a family of restaurateurs and honed his skills at Kyoto's luxury traditional restaurants, ryotei. The signature dish is handmade tofu, prepared on demand using high-quality "Fukuyutaka" soybeans from Hokkaido. Its rich flavor creates a lasting impression. Fresh Kyoto vegetables are sourced from trusted local suppliers. The extensive menu, which always includes the handmade tofu, is especially popular among women.

Sen no mame

Open: [Weekday,Sunday,Saturday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (last order 8:30 pm) / Lunch 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (last order 1:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 3,520 JPY / [Lunch] 1,650 JPY
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11. Irodori kako Fukumura

Irodori kako Fukumura a promising new restaurant, opened its doors on February 19, 2021. The chef personally handpicks seasonal ingredients from the market to create dishes enjoyed in a casual setting. The restaurant offers a grand menu available year-round, supplemented with a weekly changing recommended menu. Winter offerings include crab, pufferfish, grouper, and hot pot dishes. Their selection of shochu, whiskey, and sake caters to all alcohol enthusiasts. Their flexibility in accommodating food and drink requests is an additional advantage. Ideal for dates or after-work drinks, the evolving Japanese Izakaya plans to install a live fish tank, promising an exciting future.

Irodori kako Fukumura

Open: [Sunday,Tuesday - Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm (last order 11:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
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12. Yamatoji Yushinka Kippoan Sakurai main branch

10. Yamatoji Yushinka Kippoan Sakurai main branch

Yamatoji Yushinka Kippoan Sakurai main branch is a traditional Japanese sweets shop with a 50-year history. It relocated in 2019 and added a café in February 2020. The café offers sweets like made-to-order "Kuzukiri", "Warabi Mochi", and "Roll Cake". Seasonal menus include "Summer Ice" with Nara strawberries and winter's "Amazake Shiruko" with ginger paste. Sweets emphasize original flavors and textures. Located inside a traditional sweets shop, it's an ideal stop during shopping. ips.

Yamatoji Yushinka Kippoan Sakurai main branch

Open: [Sunday - Tuesday,Thursday - Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Other 9:00 am - 7:00 pm[Other] 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (last order 4:30 pm)
Closed: Wednesday
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13. Nihon ryori Hitoshizuku

Nihon ryori Hitoshizuku is found in Naramachi, an area known for its ancient city charm. The restaurant, featuring a warm wood interior and just seven counter seats, offers high-quality Japanese cuisine. Lunch courses are priced at 2,000 yen and 3,500 yen. A reservation for dinner provides an omakase course starting at 8,000 yen. Each dish showcases selected ingredients from various parts of Japan. An array of reasonably priced sake and Japanese wine is available to complement the umami-rich broth, making for a unique dining experience.

Nihon ryori Hitoshizuku

Open: Dinner 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm (last order 8:00 pm) / Lunch 11:30 am - 2:00 pm (last order 2:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPY
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14. Japanese cafe & bar Comfy

Comfy is a café that embodies its name, offering a comfortable environment and delightful dishes. Frequently visited by customers dining alone, it provides a casual Japanese dining experience during lunch hours. Meals are prepared daily with fresh vegetables from contracted farmers and ingredients from Nara Prefecture. During the café's evening hours, patrons can enjoy a variety of drinks paired with Japanese cuisine. The menu is designed to be universally accessible, regardless of nationality, age, or gender. The relaxing atmosphere of "Comfy," complemented by conversations with friendly staff, ensures a truly comfortable visit.

Japanese cafe & bar Comfy

Open: [Sunday - Wednesday,Friday,Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 1:00 am (last order 12:00 am) / Lunch 11:00 am - 3:00 pm (last order 2:00 pm) / Other 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm (last order 5:00 pm)
Closed: Closed: Every Thursday, every other Friday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
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15. Senzu Bizin

Just a 3-minute walk from Kintetsu Yamatoyagi Station, this conveniently located izakaya offers delicious, affordable dishes starting at 220 yen. Enjoy excellent appetizers and a la carte dishes, including fried foods, paired with satisfying drinks. The unique menu includes dishes like collagen-rich "Tosaka no Shioyaki (Salt Grriled)" and fluffy, creamy "Dashi Maki". With an all-you-can-drink offer for 888 yen (excluding tax) for up to 100 minutes and all drinks priced at 250 yen (excluding tax), it's perfect for parties. Partitioned tables and semi-private rooms ensure privacy.

Senzu Bizin

Open: 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (last order 11:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY / [Lunch] 3,000 JPY
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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.