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

Update-date: Oct 08 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. 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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2. 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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3. 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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4. Yakiniku Kappo Bimi

Yakiniku Kappo Bimi, a reservation-only restaurant, is renowned for its "Omakase Yakiniku Kappo Course" priced at 7,500 yen. This course highlights the delectable taste of whole-purchased Japanese Black Beef. As a reservation-only establishment, they offer customized banquet menus, accommodating a wide range of requests. From large gatherings of up to 250 people to intimate dinners for couples, they serve all generations. The menu features a variety of rare yakiniku cuts, including marbled and lean cuts, and horumon (offal meat) from whole-purchased Japanese Black cattle. Feel free to contact them with inquiries.

Yakiniku Kappo Bimi

Open: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 7,500 JPY
Access: 13-minute by car from the Horyuji IC Exit
Address: 812-1, Hirao, Koryo-cho, Kitakatsuragi-gun, Nara Map
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5. 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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6. 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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7. 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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8. Nihon Ryori Arigatou

Nihon Ryori Arigatou, located near the station in Gakuen-Kita, Nara city, is run by Mr. Ikejima and his wife, both experienced in Japanese cuisine. They serve a variety of dishes featuring seasonal ingredients and creative flair. Guests can enjoy a course meal including visually appealing "Sakizuke" (appetizers), "Yakimono" (grilled dishes), "Owan" (soup dishes), and "Ko-nabe" (small hot pots) with flavorful broth. The restaurant boasts a wide selection of sake, always stocking over ten types from various regions, to complement the dishes. The cozy wooden interior and eight-seat counter create a homely atmosphere perfect for dining with someone special.

Nihon Ryori Arigatou

Open: Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm / Lunch 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Closed: *Please inquire at the time of reservation
Average price: [Dinner] 17,000 JPY / [Lunch] 10,000 JPY
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9. 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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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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11. 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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12. 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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13. 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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14. 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 (last order 10:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: 20 minutes by car from Kashiba IC or Horyuji IC
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15. 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
Address: 2-9-4, Horai, Nara-shi, 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.