Kushi Zukushi: Refined Kushiage Courses

Kushi Zukushi (串づ串) offers a fine-dining take on kushiage, the art of deep-fried skewers, from a small counter in Nara's Yanagimachi district. The experience is built around set courses of either 11 or 16 skewers, showcasing an unusually thin and non-greasy batter that has won consistent praise from diners. The chef serves each item personally, explaining the ideal condiment and timing to enjoy it, turning a sequence of fried morsels into a guided tasting.

Guests repeatedly highlight the light, crisp texture of the batter and the perfect cooking of ingredients like kuruma-ebi (prawn), sea bream with shiso, conger eel, and scallops. The friendly owners are also a key part of the appeal, often providing English explanations for international visitors. While most appreciate the guidance, a few diners have found the chef's running commentary a bit too prescriptive. The skewers are not large, so some guests with bigger appetites felt the course could leave them wanting more.

The restaurant is widely considered to offer excellent value for the quality of its ingredients and preparation. Reviewers in 2023–2025 frequently cited the 16-skewer 'Mikasa' course at around ¥5,500–¥6,000. An 11-skewer 'Asuka' course was noted at ¥3,500 in older reviews. A la carte skewers are available as add-ons, with prices from ¥160 to ¥630. A glass of beer is about ¥630.

• Reservations: Booking is required, as the small restaurant is often full. The restaurant asks that you do not call during service hours (5:00 PM–8:00 PM).
• Getting There: Kushi Zukushi is on the ground floor of the Wada Building, a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara or JR Nara stations.
• Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
• Seating: The space is intimate, with about 10 counter seats and a small table for four.
• Children: Children are welcome, but those of elementary school age and older are required to order a full course.
• Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
• Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but there are paid parking lots nearby.