SHIORI — Restaurant in Nikko

In preface—I lived in Japan for 4yrs and am conversational in Japanese (speaking and reading/writing). I have been dehumanized and turned away (overtly and covertly) from establishments in Japan for over three decades. However—in 2025–I never expected to be turned away from an empty restaurant (see photo) because I didn’t have a “reservation”(which, according to the staff out front, was only available via calling the restaurant—even though they don’t have a WhatsApp or WeChat number—nor via an online reservation app). We were not the only ones—the staff was making a group of Cantonese speakers grovel for seats in broken Japanese and English. Further, I went past the restaurant 2hrs later and it was equally empty. Actually ran into this covert exclusionary tactic in a few places in Nikko and Tohoku. The real irony—probably 80% of the overnight stayers in Nikko were NOT Japanese! I didn’t actually get to eat here—didn’t get through the door. I learned a long time ago I can’t change Japan and obviously I can’t tell anyone what to do but we as consumers must show these establishments this behavior is NOT tolerated in 2025! Please do not support this racist and...

Our dining experience here was truly one of the standout moments of our visit to Japan. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The menu offers something for everyone, whether you're a meat or fish lover, vegetarian, or vegan. They’ve expertly adapted traditional recipes so that everyone can enjoy them. We sampled the "En" menu, both the vegan and regular versions, as well as the tonkatsu menu. The "En" menus were exceptional — the staff took great care to ensure the vegan version came with all its extras, with no mix-ups between the dishes. The tonkatsu was delicious and hearty, while the "En" menu was both refined and satisfying, featuring a wide variety of carefully crafted dishes, including the best yuba we had during our entire trip. This meal was, without a doubt, the best we’ve had in a long time. The staff went above and beyond to assist us when we encountered an issue with our train booking, showing incredible kindness and resourcefulness. A heartfelt thank you for the amazing dinner and the outstanding support. We will cherish this experience for...

I ordered the miyabi set, which introduces the Nikko's traditional dish, yuba, as well as local vegetables, fish and grain. Added on the 3 set sake comprising Nikko's sake.

Food: Very good, very oriental. Good mix of light-tasting yuba coupled with a robust entree of chicken and fish. I personally enjoyed the grilled fish and sashimi, although the chicken is great too.

Advice: The miyabi set will ensure that you will leave with full stomach. If u just want to try the yuba dishes, the en set should suffice.

Service: Exceptional service despite low manpower. Dishes are served one at a time and staff took the effort to explain the dish with limited English. English menu available, lunch sets available for dinner. However, you have to make reservations or come at opening time, as they only accept a limited number of guests. Card and cash OK.

Atmosphere: It is a posh Omakase experience that I would charge at least 3 times as much in my country.

Overall, I enjoyed the experience and would definitely recommend it if you...