Tabelog ratingLA PIE offers a refined French dining experience in Nara, centered around an open kitchen where guests can watch the chef at work. Trained in France and with experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, the chef is known for his precise technique and thoughtful sourcing of local ingredients.
The star of the menu, mentioned in nearly every review, is the bouillabaisse. Made with fresh seafood from nearby Wakayama, it's praised for its deep, complex flavour. Other consistently lauded items include the rich pâté de campagne, house-made sourdough bread, and perfectly cooked fish and meat dishes. Portions are noted as generous; the popular Lunch B course includes both a fish and a meat main. For dessert, the profiteroles are a frequent highlight.
While the food receives universal acclaim, some guests note minor operational issues. The small restaurant often fills up, making reservations hard to secure. Desserts are charged separately, which can be a surprise, and one reviewer noted a dessert contained alcohol without prior warning. Overall, however, criticism is rare.
Reviewers consistently call the lunch excellent value, with the A course recently costing around ¥3,800 and the two-main B course between ¥5,000 and ¥6,000. One guest reported a total lunch bill of ¥7,750 with dessert and drinks. Dinner is a more significant investment, with typical spend between ¥10,000 and ¥14,999.
- Reservations: Booking is highly recommended as the restaurant is small and frequently full. Some reviewers mention successfully booking via Instagram messages.
- Getting There: LA PIE is about a 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, or approximately 870 meters from Kyobate Station.
- Payment: VISA credit cards are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Seating: The counter seats with a view of the kitchen are a highlight, especially for solo diners. There are no private rooms.
- Menu: Desserts are ordered and charged separately. If you prefer a non-alcoholic dessert, it is best to specify when ordering.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking is available.
