Tabelog ratingShin Zen Bi (眞善美) has earned its reputation as one of Nagoya's most difficult reservations for a reason. Chef Shinya Mizukami applies sophisticated Sichuan techniques to a curated selection of Japan's finest seasonal ingredients. The result is a unique and deeply personal style of Chinese cuisine, served as a single tasting menu at an intimate 12-seat counter.
Two elements receive near-universal praise: the soups and the Beijing duck. The kitchen is famed for its multi-hour 'yakuzen' medicinal soups and a crystal-clear chicken 'chintan' broth that reviewers describe as unforgettable. The Beijing duck is a showpiece, carved expertly at the counter. Other consistently lauded dishes include rich shark fin (fukahire) preparations, often paired with truffle fried rice; delicate spring rolls filled with sweet corn and caviar; and expertly roasted char siu pork.
The experience is not without its challenges. The high price point, with bills sometimes exceeding ¥40,000 per person, leads some to find it expensive. The main point of friction, however, is the reservation system—a monthly phone lottery for seats several months out that requires significant persistence. A few guests have also noted that the small room can feel bustling at times.
Dinner is a set tasting menu, which reviewers in 2024–2026 reported was priced around ¥33,000, with tax and a 10% service charge often added. Note that signature items like the Beijing duck are charged as a supplement, with guests paying around ¥1,650–¥1,760 per portion. For those seeking a top-tier, ingredient-focused Chinese dining experience, it is widely considered worth the cost and effort.
- Reservations: Essential and extremely difficult to secure. Bookings are taken by phone only, on the first of each month for a date approximately three months ahead. Walk-ins are not accepted.
- Location: On the 2nd floor of the M's GARDEN building in Higashisakura, Nagoya. There is no prominent sign at street level. It's a 5-minute walk from Takaoka Station.
- Seating: 12 counter seats only. There are no private rooms.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners, UnionPay) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Dress Code: Smart casual. Shorts, sandals, and strong fragrances are not permitted.
- Age Restriction: Guests must be university students or older.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid car parks nearby.
