Tabelog ratingIn the city of Kizu, a short trip from Kyoto, ristorante nakamoto (リストランテ ナカモト) offers a highly personal and technical take on European cuisine. It operates as a tasting house, where chef-owner Yusuke Nakamoto builds multi-course menus around precise cooking techniques and seasonal ingredients. The experience is defined by two signatures: a stunning plate of over 30 different seasonal vegetable preparations, and an expert command of fire, using charcoal grilling and low-temperature cooking for proteins.
Guests consistently praise the intricacy and artistry of the food. The seasonal vegetable plate, often presented under a transparent sheet of dressing, is a recurring highlight. House-made pastas, such as bavette or filled agnolotti, are singled out for their excellent texture and flavour. The main courses, featuring expertly cooked fish or meats like local chicken and premium Haibara beef, demonstrate a mastery of heat control. The drink pairings—both wine and a highly developed non-alcoholic tea flight—are considered integral to the meal, designed to elevate each course. Desserts and petits fours are also noted for their high quality.
A few minor points appear in reviews. The restaurant's entrance is described as discreet and easy to miss, and some find the dining room lighting a bit dim. While service is professional, a few guests have found the dish explanations to feel scripted or brisk. The pricing for optional add-ons, like upgrading to beef or opting for larger wine pours, can be confusing if not clarified during booking.
Expect to pay ¥15,000–¥19,999 for lunch and ¥20,000–¥29,999 for dinner. Reviewers in 2024 reported paying around ¥15,400 for a lunch course and ¥22,000 for the dinner omakase. Upgrading the main dish to Haibara beef was a ¥2,500 surcharge. For those seeking a high-craft, memorable meal, it offers excellent value.
- Booking: Reservation is mandatory. Dinner often has a single start time for all guests.
- Access: A 5-minute walk from the West Exit of JR Kizu Station.
- Payment: Accepts credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners), electronic money (Rakuten-Edy, QUICPay), and QR code payments (Rakuten Pay). A 10% service charge applies.
- Children: Children are welcome, but only in the private rooms. Please inquire by phone when booking.
- Parking: The restaurant has no dedicated parking, but the paid Kizugawa City Hall lot is located directly opposite.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.