Okada: Refined Counter Kaiseki

Okada (おか田) offers a classic kaiseki experience in an intimate setting in Nara. With just eight to ten seats at the counter, guests have a front-row view of the chef's meticulous work. This personal interaction, combined with a Michelin star, makes it a sought-after destination.

Reviewers consistently praise the elegant flow of the multi-course meal. Signature moments include the elaborate seasonal appetizer platter (hassun), showpiece dishes like stone-grilled fugu or white cod, and charcoal-seared bonito (katsuo). The meal often concludes with a standout clay-pot rice (donabe), and the balanced flavour of the dashi broth is a point of frequent acclaim. International visitors appreciate that staff often use a tablet with a translator to explain each course, making the refined experience feel warm and accessible.

The restaurant's small size means that seats are scarce and must be booked months in advance. A minority of guests have noted that service can sometimes be slow, with dinners lasting over three hours, or that the wine list feels limited. While most consider it excellent value for the quality, the bill can rise quickly with drinks.

Dinner courses are priced from ¥18,150 (including tax and service). Reviewers who ordered drinks reported final bills ranging from ¥19,000 to ¥43,000. Lunch courses are available from ¥8,000. As an example, one guest noted a 180ml serving of sake was around ¥1,650.

• Booking: Reservations are essential and should be made months in advance via phone or the restaurant's website.
• Getting There: Located on the 1st floor of the Nori Biru Imamikado building, about a 7-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
• Seating: The main seating is at the counter, with a few small private rooms available for parties of 2 or 4.
• Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners, UnionPay) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
• Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
• Parking: There is no dedicated parking, but paid coin parking is available nearby.