A Hidden Gem in Palermo: Himitsu Kichi by Esteban Leira
If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable sushi experience in Buenos Aires, look no further than Himitsu Kichi—a high-end yet warmly welcoming restaurant led by renowned sushiman Esteban Leira. Known for serving celebrities, Esteban brings both precision and passion to every dish, blending traditional Japanese techniques with a distinctive Argentinian twist that sets his creations apart.
I’ve been to Himitsu Kichi more than three times, and what keeps me coming back is the flavor. Every bite is fresh and vibrant—the kind that lingers in your memory long after the meal. One standout? The soy sauce gelato with sesame oil. Totally unforgettable.
Each plate showcases Leira’s meticulous attention to detail, from the artful presentation to the perfect balance of flavor and texture. This isn’t just sushi—it’s a mind-blowing culinary experience.
The restaurant itself has an intimate, upscale vibe. Upstairs, there’s a private party room with panoramic views of the city, making it a stunning venue for special celebrations. Plus, they offer cash deals, which is a welcome bonus considering the exceptional quality.
As someone with family members who have disabilities, I truly appreciated the accessible restroom—an often-overlooked but essential feature, especially in Argentina’s fine dining scene.
Himitsu Kichi is more than a restaurant; it’s a reflection of Esteban’s creativity and heart. Whether you’re a devoted sushi lover or simply seeking a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Palermo, this spot is absolutely worth a visit.
Reservations are available in advance, walk-ins are welcome, and they even offer gift certificates—a perfect present for any food lover...
Read moreHimitsu Kichi stands out as an exceptional restaurant in Buenos Aires. While traditional Japanese cuisine is not on the menu, the restaurant showcases Chef Esteban's unique interpretation of Japanese-inspired dishes, inviting diners to experience his culinary artistry through the 'omakase' menu. Comprising a series of small dishes, each thoughtfully crafted with high-quality, fresh, seasonal ingredients, the menu is a testament to the chef's ability to create balanced, savoury, and innovative flavours. In addition, Himitsu Kichi goes beyond good customer service by embracing the principles of 'omotenashi,' a hallmark of Japanese hospitality culture. During our visit, the staff meticulously explained each dish, and Chef Esteban generously shared insights into the restaurant's origins and concept. Moreover, our visit to the restaurant's bar, Amaterasu, was a delightful highlight. The skilled bartenders, Mati and Nico, showcased their expertise in mixology, offering in-depth explanations of ingredients and techniques. In summary, this restaurant offers a remarkable dining experience that I recommend to locals and visitors who appreciate...
Read moreFirst the good: the food was very tasty, we liked the different rolls, the surprising dishes. The wine list was also good - but enough with the QR codes already. The space and experience: unfortunately, the point of having a bar/Omakase experience, is so you can see the chefs and have an interaction. The height of the table and chairs, just didn't allow to see anything at all. When we commented on that with a smile, the chef(?) Said we could see the reflection in the Water machine on the side of us(which ironically was blocking another woman's view of the preparation). So, you don't see anything. It seemed all the food was prepared in the kitchen behind closed doors? Not sure why they chose to do it this way, but seemed like a wasted opportunity unfortunately! Maybe roof mirrors and a lower bar height would fix this? The ambiance just didn't feel very intimate or high end (poor lighting, poor chairs and height), and no view. For the price, I don't think I will return...
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