Kappo Matsuki — Restaurant in Nara

We booked our reservation at Matsuki based on a glowing recommendation from the Shisui Hotel, and while we are by no means experts in Japanese cuisine, we have had the pleasure of dining at a variety of Kappo and Kaiseki restaurants across Japan, from Kyushu to Hokkaido. Yet, Matsuki was truly an unforgettable and singular experience.

From the moment we entered, we were welcomed with genuine warmth and kindness by both the hostess and the chefs. Their hospitality set the tone for what would be an exceptional meal. The quality of the ingredients were excellent, and the precision and artistry in their preparation truly distinguished each dish. Every course was not only delicious but meticulously crafted, with a harmonious balance of flavours. The attention to detail given to each ingredient was evident in every bite.

Despite the language barrier, the team at Matsuki made an extraordinary effort to explain the significance of each dish. They even brought out a book with English translations to help us understand the cultural context of certain dishes and the symbolic meaning of the traditional Japanese ingredients used. This thoughtful gesture allowed us to appreciate not only the chef’s culinary artistry but also the rich history behind each component. We were deeply grateful to witness their passion and dedication to their craft.

The following day, we dined at a 3-Michelin-star Kaiseki restaurant in Osaka. While the experience was undeniably luxurious, it did not compare to the quality, mindfulness, and deliciousness found at Matsuki. At a fraction of the price, Matsuki delivered a significantly more memorable experience. I am looking forward to returning to Nara and visiting again soon. I would recommend it to anyone seeking a deeply inviting, thoughtful and delicious exploration of...

One of the best meals of my life. The food was incredible, service was attentive and focused, but the part that made it special was the time with the chef. Our interactions with him and watching him prepare his dishes with such care was fantastic. Learning about him, his restaurant, and his passion for cooking was my favorite experience in Japan. With each dish we shared his favorite sakes and had a meal we will...

As our first kaiseki experience I cannot emphasize enough how great it was. Each dish had high quality ingredients with an extensive range of different flavors and textures. Sake recommendations were really helpful and correct. The cook and head chef were especially kind and made the experience even...