Narisawa — Restaurant in Tokyo

Dining at Narisawa was one of the most memorable culinary experiences I’ve ever had — not just in Japan, but anywhere in the world. It’s not just a meal here, it’s a deeply thoughtful journey through nature, Japanese culture, and artistry on a plate.

From the start, the service was flawless — warm, but discreet. The space is modern and peaceful, with soft lighting and quiet music that sets the tone for what’s to come. Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa’s philosophy of "Innovative Satoyama Cuisine" becomes clear with the very first dish. You’re not just eating seasonal food — you’re tasting forests, rivers, and mountains, quite literally.

The most unforgettable part of the meal was a dish called “Bread of the Forest.” It’s this small dough placed in a warm stone pot and baked tableside — it rises while you watch, and the smell is absolutely incredible. When they opened the lid and served it with butter and moss-infused salt, I actually paused. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel something.

Another standout dish was “Essence of the Forest.” It looked like a forest floor, with edible soil, herbs, and even little twigs — all edible, of course. The taste was earthy but clean, and surprisingly delicate. It felt like walking through the woods in spring.

Everything is hyper-seasonal, so the menu changes often. During my visit, I also had lightly smoked wild boar, a stunning seafood dish with clam foam and coastal herbs, and a delicate dessert with Japanese citrus and pine. Each plate came out looking like art, but the flavors were always the priority — never just for show.

The staff explained each dish clearly but without being overbearing. I felt respected as a guest, not talked down to. The pacing was perfect — unhurried, but never dragging.

As for the price: it’s expensive, no doubt. I paid around 35,000 yen for the tasting menu, plus wine pairing. But I have zero regrets. This is one of those rare restaurants that feels like it actually deserves its Michelin stars and spot on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. It’s food with a soul.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely — if you appreciate subtlety, nature, and a bit of quiet reflection with your meal. This isn’t loud, flashy fine dining. It’s poetic, calm, and...

I've written this as some balance is needed from all these people telling you this place is great. For context I've eaten at a number of World Top 50 and 2 / 3 Michelin star restaurants so that is the standard I'm comparing it to.

Food is ok - its not bad but definetly nothing special. If your saving your $'s for a special dinner I would say avoid as there are many other restaurants at this price point offering much better taste and wow factor. I was sad i couldn't come here almost 10 years ago for the famous Moss Bread to now have it and realise its average. Thinking through the meal now I would say there were virtually no dishes that stand out in my mind despite eating here only a few days ago.

Service was ok but feels a little robotic - this could be though because I am a tourist so understand that. The whole have to rush you through to get you out by 8pm is pretty ordinary especially after the prices you pay to sit and enjoy a meal. You haven't even swalloed your last bite and the bill is put in front of you. The worst part however is the pricing is feels a little deceptive. Don't tell people the price without tax - whats the point?? When drinks pairing prices are advised they should just be stated as the actual total price upfront - not 10% less. And this terrible practice of then loading a 10% service charge on top of the price + tax is poor. We're Japanese and dont want tips - except we do. Terrible practice that is being snuck in more and more.

I love fine dining and wanted to eat here for years. Unfortunately was quite the let down - dont let the hype around the "reputation" you see in other reviews...

My wife and I visited Narisawa to celebrate my birthday and had the pleasure of experiencing their Autumn Collection: Innovative Satoyama Cuisine.

The ambience was simple and zen, providing a calm and elegant setting for the meal. The serving staff were consistently pleasant and friendly, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Our favourite dishes included the Scallop from Hokkaido, cooked to perfection with an exquisitely soft and tender texture, complemented by a delicately rich sauce. The Hairy Crab with Salmon Roe, Hokkaido Sea Urchin, and Rice from Ehime and Kyoto were equally impressive. The rice, prepared much like a risotto, was perfect, and the seafood was handled with such finesse that every bite was a delight. The Langoustine from Kanagawa brought a wonderful taste of the ocean, paired beautifully with a homemade tomato sauce.

A particularly memorable moment was watching the “Bread of the Forest” – Moss being baked right in front of us on a hot stone — a fascinating and delicious touch.

The only slight downside was that the wine introduction felt a bit pushy at the beginning. Otherwise, everything was exceptional. It was also heartwarming to have Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa personally greeting diners, adding a special, personal touch to the experience.

Overall, it was a truly memorable celebration, and we look forward...