Tabelog ratingJapanese cuisine Tekisui (日本料理 滴翠) offers a uniquely serene dining experience in Nara. Located near the famous Nara Park, its defining feature is that all seating is in private or semi-private rooms, most of which look out onto a beautifully maintained Japanese garden. This tranquil setting, combined with attentive and welcoming service, makes it a popular choice for those seeking a peaceful escape from the city's bustle.
Guests consistently praise the lunch sets for their remarkable value. The baked curry set (‘和漢の香り 焼きカレー’) and the tempura rice bowl (tendon) set are frequently mentioned, with reviewers in 2024 paying around ¥2,000 for a complete meal that includes a distinctive dessert—a creamy pudding called ‘飛鳥のなめらかプリン’ served under a persimmon-leaf lid. While the lunch sets are the main draw for value, more elaborate multi-course kaiseki lunches are available, such as a mid-range set for ¥3,800 and the 'Tekisui Gozen Hasu' course for ¥5,500. Dinner is pricier, with sets reported around ¥5,000.
While the vast majority of reviews are positive, a few guests have noted occasional inconsistencies, finding a tempura dish too heavy or a course's seasoning to be slightly off. However, the overall consensus points to a high-quality experience that is well worth the price, especially for lunch. Staff have also been noted for accommodating dietary needs, and some English is spoken.
- Booking: Reservations are highly recommended. While walk-ins are possible, some menus sell out and waits of up to an hour have been reported.
- Location: In the Takabatakecho district of Nara, a pleasant walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
- Seating: All 68 seats are in private or semi-private rooms, suitable for groups of 2 to 30 people. Ask for a window-facing room for the best garden view.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners), electronic money (Suica, etc.), and QR code payments (PayPay, etc.) are all accepted.
- Families: Children of all ages, including babies in strollers, are welcome. A kids' menu is available.
- Accessibility: The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and has free Wi-Fi.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking, but a designated smoking area is available outside.
- Parking: Free parking is available for up to 10 cars.
