Reminiscence: Narrative Modern French

At Reminiscence (レミニセンス), chef Masaki Kuzuhara presents a modern French tasting menu as a complete narrative. The meal unfolds across several 'chapters'—such as recollection, creation, and memory—that weave together seasonal ingredients from the local Tokai region into a cohesive story. This thoughtful concept is executed with precision, earning the restaurant a reputation as one of Nagoya's top gastronomic destinations.

Guests consistently praise the kitchen's precise control over heat and its ability to build layered, complex flavours. Signature dishes that appear in reviews include an amuse-bouche of fresh uni on a crispy kudzu chip, a remarkably clear and flavourful Nagoya-Kōchin chicken soup named 'Ama-no-Iwato', and a perfectly white-grilled eel served with creative sauces. The experience is complemented by a calm, minimalist white dining room, excellent bread from a collaboration with the famed Tran・Bleu bakery, and polished, attentive service. The wine pairings are also highlighted as being particularly well-chosen.

While overwhelmingly positive, a few minor critiques appear. Some diners have noted inconsistent pacing, with plates either cleared too quickly or with long gaps between courses. A small number of guests felt the presentation was somewhat understated for the price point, and that dish explanations could be brief. However, these are occasional comments rather than widespread complaints.

Expect to pay around ¥20,000–¥29,999 for lunch and ¥30,000–¥39,999 for dinner. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying ¥21,780 for a lunch course and ¥24,200 for a dinner menu. Wine pairings add substantially to the bill, with a short three-glass option at a reported ¥9,800 and a standard pairing at ¥16,800. Total bills often fall between ¥26,000 and ¥45,000 per person, including a 12% service charge. For a special-occasion meal focused on high-quality local ingredients and refined technique, it offers strong value.

• Reservations: Reservations are required and should be made well in advance.
• Getting There: The restaurant is a 4-minute walk from Kurumamichi Station (Exit 2) on the Sakura-dori Line.
• Payment: Major credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
• Seating: The restaurant has 32 seats, with tables and private rooms available. Private rooms can accommodate 4 to 10 guests; fees may apply for smaller parties.
• Age Restriction: Children of elementary school age and older are welcome.
• Dress Code: A smart casual dress code is enforced. Please refrain from wearing shorts, sandals, or strong fragrances.
• Languages: Some staff speak English, Chinese, or Korean. Allergy and dietary restrictions are handled well if communicated at the time of booking.
• Smoking: The restaurant is non-smoking. Smoking is permitted on the terrace of the second-floor private room.
• Parking: There is no dedicated parking, but paid parking lots are available nearby.