NARA NIKON
Nara, Japan
⭐2 Stars
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Shojiro Shimizu is dedicated to showcasing Japanese cuisine to the world. Centuries-old cooking techniques are on full display here, including grilling over a charcoal brazier and cooking rice in a kamado (traditional stove). Appetisers are indispensable here, as they express a sense of season. The restaurant’s name refers to a Zen chant intoned by the Zen master Dogen Zenji (1200–1253). Shimizu’s serious attitude to cooking is encapsulated in the Zen proverb, ‘Do what must be done in this moment in what you must achieve in this moment’.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Immersive Kaiseki Experience with Seasonal Storytelling
NARA NIKON offers more than just a meal; it is an immersive journey through kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and elegant presentation. Each course is crafted to tell a story through flavors and textures, reflecting the chef’s dedication to quality and artistry in a serene ambiance blending traditional aesthetics with modern touches.Centuries-Old Cooking Techniques in Practice
The restaurant prominently features ancient Japanese culinary methods such as grilling over a charcoal brazier (Tosa binchotan charcoal) and cooking rice in a kamado, a traditional stove. This dedication to preserving historical cooking styles is a defining characteristic of NARA NIKON’s approach, connecting diners to Japan’s culinary heritage in an authentic way.Philosophical Inspiration Behind the Name and Approach
The name "NARA NIKON" is inspired by a Zen chant from the Zen master Dogen Zenji (1200–1253), reflecting a deep philosophical underpinning to the dining experience. Chef Shojiro Shimizu’s cooking ethos is captured by a Zen proverb emphasizing mindfulness and precision: "Do what must be done in this moment in what you must achieve in this moment," which shapes the meticulous preparation and presentation of every dish.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant NARA NIKON in Nara are:
- Yamato vegetables: These local vegetables are prized for their freshness and unique flavors, reflecting the rich agricultural heritage of Nara Prefecture. They are used to highlight the natural bounty of the region in various dishes.
- Yamato meats (especially Yamato beef): This high-quality beef is a centerpiece ingredient, featured prominently in hearty meat dishes that showcase the depth and richness of Nara’s local produce.
- Japanese duck: Another celebrated local protein, used to bring distinctive flavors and textures to the menu.
- Persimmons from Gojo City: These add a regional sweetness and seasonal character to dishes, emphasizing local fruit cultivation.
- Miwa somen noodles from Sakurai City: A traditional specialty of the area, these thin wheat noodles are often incorporated into signature dishes, representing Nara’s culinary heritage.
These ingredients are significant because they embody the terroir and cultural history of Nara, allowing NARA NIKON to craft dishes that are both authentic and innovative, deeply rooted in local tradition while offering refined culinary experiences. For example, Yamato beef is used in bold, hearty meat dishes that form the core of the dining experience, while Miwa somen noodles appear in refined preparations that highlight their delicate texture and flavor.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Kaiseki Menu
- Traditional multi-course Japanese meal
Prices
- JPY 26,000 (approximately $230 USD)
Note: Prices may vary depending on the season and availability of ingredients.