10 Best Restaurants in Nara That Are Worth the Trip
Nara is more than temples, deer, and history. The food here? Incredible. From perfectly grilled wagyu to satisfying bowls of ramen, the best restaurants in Nara know how to serve up a great meal. Some spots keep things deeply traditional, while others add a modern twist to classic flavors.
If you’re wandering through Nara Park, exploring hidden streets, or looking for a meal worth remembering, this list has you covered. Here are the best restaurants in Nara, ready to impress.
10 Best Restaurants in Nara
1. Todaijimonmae Nagomi
Address: 16 Kasuganocho Yumekaze Plaza, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥4,500–¥30,000
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM–7:00 PM
Good steak isn’t hard to find in Japan, but finding great steak near a historic landmark? That’s rare. The cozy interior and friendly service make it a welcoming spot near Todaiji Temple. Their steak set meals are a highlight, served with sides like fresh vegetables and rice. It’s an excellent choice for a satisfying and hearty meal during your Nara visit.
2. Ristorante Borgo Konishi
Address: 24-2 Konishichō, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range:¥6,000-¥15,000
Opening Hours: 11:00 PM–11:00 PM
Italian food in Nara? Absolutely. And it’s not just any Italian food, too. It’s done with precision and Japanese finesse. Ristorante Borgo Konishi is a common choice for big events because of its sophisticated atmosphere and meticulous details. From homemade pasta to perfectly cooked seafood, their seasonal menu emphasizes locally grown, fresh foods. It’s a great option for a remarkable dinner in Nara.
3. Teppanyaki Sanga
Address: 11 Sanjōhonmachi, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥800–¥20,000
Opening Hours: 6:00 PM–9:00 PM
Teppanyaki Sanga is about more than just steak. Actually, it’s a full experience. Here, skilled chefs grill premium wagyu right in front of you. They know exactly how to sear it to perfection while keeping the inside juicy and rich.
Every bite melts in your mouth, and the sides – lightly seasoned vegetables, rice, and a perfectly paired dipping sauce – elevate the meal. If you love a great show with your dinner, this spot delivers.
4. Menya Samurai Dojo
Address: 43-1 Shimosanjocho, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥1,000–¥3,000
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Menya Samurai Dojo presents customers with mazesoba, a strong and savory dry noodle dish loaded with toppings. The vibe is casual and welcoming, the flavors deep, savory, and rich
Can you guess the owner’s other passion? Archery! In fact, he also runs an archery range next door. So, if you’d like to attempt some Samurai archery for a creative diversion as you wait, you’re free to do so.
5. Nikutoieba Matsuda Nara Main Branch
Address: Naizencho, Kashihara, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥10,000–¥15,000
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
Serious about wagyu? This place is a must. Nikutoieba Matsuda Nara serves Yamato beef, a specialty of Nara, and every cut is handled with expert care. The chef? A trained sommelier and meat expert. The dining experience? Thoughtful, refined, and unforgettable. For meat lovers looking for a sophisticated dinner in Nara, this is a meal worth splurging on.
6. Seafood Restaurant Sakura-Chaya
Address: 4 Chome Omiyacho, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥8,000–¥37,000
Opening Hours: 11:45 AM–11:00 PM
Love fresh seafood? This spot does it right. Sakura-Chaya offers a fresh seafood menu including seasonal specials, sashimi, and grilled fish. Perfect for savoring a laid-back lunch following sightseeing, it’s conveniently close to the center Nara. Their seasonal seafood platters highlight the freshest locally caught cuisine and should not be missed.
7. Motsusui Nara-Sanjo Branch
Address: Kamisanjōchō, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥5,000–¥10,000
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM
Hot pot lovers, this one’s for you. Motsusui Nara-Sanjo is particularly good in motsunabe, a filling hot pot meal composed of delicate offal and vegetables. Fresh foods plus a good broth make for a filling and cozy dinner. It’s great for sharing, and the setting is casual but lively. Pair it with a drink, sit back, and enjoy.
8. Kitsune
Address: Ganriincho, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥2,000–¥20,000
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Chef Shusaku Toba – known for his Michelin-starred Tokyo restaurant – brings something fresh to Nara. Kitsune offers a new interpretation of well-known dishes like sukiyaki, a contemporary take on classic tastes. Every item on the menu is unique. And since it’s conveniently close to Kintetsu Nara Station, it’s easy to drop by for a visit.
9. Surugamachi no Okonomiyakiya
Address: 606-8 Sanjocho, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥800–¥1,500
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM
Okonomiyaki is simple, satisfying, and always a good idea. This small, friendly spot makes some of the best in town. The shrimp, squid, and tempura-based okonomiyaki are standouts. The staff is welcoming, and the location? Perfect after a day in Nara Park.
10. Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu
Address: Iyodo, Tawaramoto, Shiki District, Nara, Nara Prefecture
Price Range: ¥5,000–¥15,000
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Ever had a meal built around soy sauce? This restaurant takes the concept and makes it incredible. The house-made soy sauce adds deep umami to every dish. The grilled fish? Perfectly seasoned. The sashimi? Delicate but full of flavor. Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu is a must-try for something different.
Final Thoughts
Nara’s food scene deserves attention. The area offers a delightful culinary journey, blending traditional Japanese flavors with modern twists. Make sure you explore these top restaurants for memorable dining experiences. For more recommendations, check out our other lists on Jasumo!
