Todaiji Emado Chaya — Restaurant in Nara

My partner and I really enjoyed our meal here! Their service was kind, the food came quickly and tasted delicious, and the ambience of the restaurant was wonderful. The glass windows, allowing us to view the deer walking by, was a great vibe. The price is very reasonable, and this restaurant is located away from the main tourist area, so it is more relaxing, and a more "hidden" spot.

The older man served us tea, and I asked in Japanese if we could order, and he immediately grabbed his pen and order form and promptly took our order. I also asked him for water after our meal, and he brought it right away. Their water was refreshing and tasted delicious!

The younger gentlemen who handled our payment asked where we are from, and where else we planned to visit. He was very kind, and was also considerate of my camera, as I wanted to record my meal. He was accommodating, and walked around our table to serve us, making sure to not get in the way of my phone camera. I would not have minded if he got in the shot, but his consideration was very kind!

They have lots of menu options, including dessert options. Kids will enjoy eating meal options such as chicken teriyaki, udon, soba, oyako-don, and they will also enjoy the soft serve as dessert. My suggestion to the chef would be to add sautéed moyashi with the chicken teriyaki Don, and sprinkle Toasted sesame seeds on top. I think the addition of these two ingredients will elevate the flavour, add texture to the dish, and improve the dish! That is only my opinion. :-)

We will definitely love to come back when we visit Nara Deer Park!...

Todaiji Emado Chaya (絵馬堂茶屋) at Nara Park

Todaiji Emado Chaya is a wonderful stop when visiting Nara Park, especially after exploring Todaiji Temple. The restaurant has a cozy and traditional Japanese design, creating a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere.

Location

The restaurant is conveniently located near Todaiji Temple and Nara Park. It’s an ideal place to take a break while enjoying the beautiful surroundings, including the freely roaming deer in the area.

Menu

The menu is quite diverse, offering traditional desserts like grilled mochi, matcha ice cream, as well as light meals such as udon and taiyaki fish-shaped cakes. I was particularly impressed by the grilled mochi – crispy on the outside, chewy and fragrant on the inside, served with a rich, sweet soy sauce.

Additionally, the restaurant serves fragrant and refreshing Japanese green tea, which pairs perfectly with the serene environment.

Service

The staff at the restaurant are very friendly and attentive. Despite the place being quite busy, they always greet you with a smile and provide quick service.

Price

The prices are reasonable and match the quality of the food and the ambiance. This is a big plus compared to other eateries in such a tourist-heavy area.

Overall

Todaiji Emado Chaya is not just a place to enjoy delicious food but also offers a relaxing experience amidst the peaceful scenery of Nara. If you’re looking for an ideal spot to savor traditional Japanese cuisine while exploring Nara, this is definitely worth a visit.

Rating: 5/5 Make sure to stop by and experience it...

Todaiji Emado Chaya is a traditional Japanese teahouse located in Nara, Japan, near the historic Todaiji Temple. This charming establishment offers visitors an authentic taste of regional cuisine, with a particular emphasis on udon noodles and other local specialties. 

The teahouse is renowned for its warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking a genuine Japanese dining experience. The menu features a variety of dishes that highlight the flavors of the region, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. One of the standout offerings is the “Yamato no Chagayu,” a traditional tea porridge that reflects the culinary heritage of Nara. 

In addition to its culinary delights, Todaiji Emado Chaya provides a serene environment where guests can relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty. The teahouse’s proximity to significant cultural landmarks, such as the Todaiji Temple and Nara Park, makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the area’s rich history and natural scenery. 

Visitors have praised the teahouse for its reasonable prices and friendly staff, noting that it offers a pleasant respite from the bustling tourist spots nearby. The combination of traditional cuisine, hospitable service, and a tranquil setting ensures that Todaiji Emado Chaya remains a cherished destination for those seeking an authentic Japanese...