Yanagiya Nishiki: Charcoal-Grilled Game and River Fish

Yanagiya Nishiki (柳家錦) is the Nagoya branch of a legendary Gifu restaurant, bringing its signature mountain-and-river cooking to the city. The heart of the experience is a long, seasonal omakase course cooked over a live charcoal hearth (irori). This gives dishes a pronounced smoky, natural flavour that sets it apart from typical urban kaiseki, focusing on ingredients like wild game, river fish, and foraged mountain vegetables.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the cooking, especially the impeccably handled game, which includes duck, wild boar, and Ezo venison, all served without any unpleasant gaminess. The seasonal ayu (sweetfish) is a highlight, often appearing in multiple forms such as salt-grilled, in a spring roll, or mixed with rice. Other standout dishes noted by reviewers include a rich duck hotpot, grilled eel, and a finishing dish of rice with natural yam (tororo). The generous portions and well-regarded wine and sake pairings are also frequently mentioned.

However, some diners have found the experience has downsides. A minority of reviews mention brusque or high-pressure service, particularly regarding phone calls and cancellations. The seasonal menu can also feel repetitive to some; when ayu is in season, for example, it may feature heavily across the meal. A few guests found fried items oily, and many noted the course is so large they struggled to finish it.

Reviewers recently paid around ¥15,400 for the omakase course, with a typical total spend of ¥15,000–¥19,999 per person before drinks. Most diners feel the price is justified by the rarity of the ingredients and the sheer volume of food, making it good value for adventurous eaters with a large appetite.

• Reservations: Reservations are required for parties of two or more. The restaurant is strict about its cancellation policy.
• Getting There: It's a 10-minute walk from Sakae or Fushimi subway stations.
• Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
• Seating: The restaurant offers counter seats and private rooms. Private rooms are available for groups of four or more.
• Language: Staff have limited English, but a sommelier is on site. Foreign guests report successfully using translation apps.
• Dietary Notes: The restaurant states it can only accommodate requests for allergies, not personal preferences.
• Good to Know: Portions are very large, so arrive hungry. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Mobile phone reception can be weak inside.