Tabelog ratingNara Nicon (奈良 而今) is a celebrated kaiseki restaurant where chef Shogo Kawashima presents a tightly focused omakase menu built around the best of the season. Much of the experience unfolds at the intimate nine-seat counter, offering a view of the charcoal grill where key dishes are finished. The meal is a showcase of technical skill, from visually stunning multi-component appetiser platters (hassun) to signature charcoal-seared pressed sushi.
Guests consistently praise the kitchen's finesse and creativity. Standout dishes mentioned in recent reviews include inventive treatments of abalone and sea urchin (uni), delicate crab custards (chawanmushi), and sashimi of seasonal fish like Akashi sea bream. The signature pressed mackerel sushi (saba-zushi) and the fluffy, perfectly seasoned rice cooked in a traditional clay pot (donabe) to finish the meal are also highlights. Many diners consider the experience worthy of a Michelin star and note that it represents excellent value compared to similar-quality meals in nearby Kyoto.
The main challenge is logistical: securing a reservation is very difficult, often requiring booking months in advance. A small number of diners have reported occasional inconsistencies in service, but these are isolated reports and the overwhelming consensus is positive.
Reviewers in 2024-2026 typically paid between ¥20,000 and ¥30,000 per person for the omakase menu, with many noting a price around ¥25,000. One party reported a bill of ¥24,200 plus service, while another paid ¥43,380 for two. With drinks, a meal can cost around ¥32,000 per person.
- Reservations: Essential and must be made far in advance. The restaurant is reservation-only. Following the restaurant's Instagram account for cancellation announcements is recommended.
- Punctuality: Service begins simultaneously for all guests at a set time (e.g., 6:00 PM). If you are more than five minutes late, your reservation may be cancelled.
- Location: A 4-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
- Seating: The restaurant has a 9-seat counter and private rooms for 2 to 6 guests.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not. Note that some past reviews mention a cash-only policy, so it is wise to bring sufficient cash. A 5% service charge is added to the bill.
- Dress Code: There is no specific dress code.
- Parking: The restaurant does not have its own parking, but paid parking is available nearby.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
