NaraExplorer

Enjoy Nara’s great food selection

magazine

Nara Explorer is Nara's first and only English tourist magazine.

Our inaugual first issue will be published in June.

For further information,click here.

Café Cachette: (Central Nara/Café & Bar); A relaxing moment in a stylish "hide-out"

<Overview>: A stylish café and bar where diners can visit and enjoy anytime of the day for a cup of coffee, lunch, dinner and a drink at the bar. As its name "Cachette" signifies, (meaning "hide-out" in French), this cozy café is situated at the end of very narrow lane and is the perfect place to relax in comfort. They directly import fine quality coffee beans from Italy and their espresso is definitely worth a try. Also their "Latte art" is a must-try with its pretty design on the cappuccino's milk foam. The Lunch plate of the day is reasonably priced yet offers generous servings. A variety of cocktails and other alcoholic drinks are available. Stop by at Cachette and enjoy your time in the hide-out.

<Recommended Items>: Lunch plate of the day: 980 yen / Select lunch set: 980 yen / Dinner plate of the day: 1,580 yen / Espresso: 320 yen / Draft beer: 500 yen / Cocktails: from 580 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-3700; On the south side of Sakura Street; enter a narrow lane next to Arte Bldg. (west side) to the end; Open: 11:30-24:00 (L.O.: 23:30); Closed: Tues.

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TORITAMURATTE: (Central Nara/Yakitori skewered chicken); Nara's popular Yakitori restaurant's new branch

<Overview>: This fashionable Yakitori restaurant looks like an Italian bar. Yakitori is grilled chicken speared on skewers. All the various parts of the chicken (thighs, skin, liver, etc.) can be used for yakitori. From typical yakitori items to modern western styles using cream cheese, for example, a variety of new yakitori creations are available at TAMIRATTE. Nara's locally brewed sake, wine, beer, and cocktail options are all available. Sake tasting set (choose 3 kinds of sake from the list) is recommended. There are some terrace seats, so enjoy a break and warm yourself up with hot sizzling yakitori and hot sake in the cold winter air.

<Recommended Items>: Yakitori: from 120 yen/skewer / Pizza Margarita: 500 yen / Beer: 480 yen / Japanese sake: from 450 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-7739; From Kintetsu Nara Sta., enter the Higashimuki Shopping Arcade and turn right (west) at the first corner, on the left side; Open: 17:00-23:00 (L.O.: 22:00); Closed: irregularly

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DRINK DRANK: (Central Nara/Smoothies & Café); Healthy organic vegetable dishes and fruity smoothies

<Overview>: Drink Drank is a pretty, cozy café where diners can savor delicious dishes using organic vegetables and smoothies. Their lunch is a must-try. Choose one from two options of rice bowls (topped with a variety of vegetables) which comes with side dishes, rice and dessert. All vegetables are fresh, locally grown and organic. Simple cooking accentuates the natural taste of the ingredients. Another attractive menu item is smoothies, one of their specialties since they opened. One glass of smoothie is full of juicy fruits and taste so good (a whole apple is used for one glass). During winter, the Asuka Ruby (Nara's special strawberry) smoothie is especially recommended.

<Recommended Items>: Matcha green tea & banana smoothie: 680 yen / Asuka Ruby strawberry smoothie: 680 yen / Vegi Vegi meal plate: 950 yen *All smoothies are OK for take-out (100 yen off from regular prices).

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-27-6206; On the south side of Sanjo, one minute walk south from Sarusawa Pond; Open: 11:00-20:00 (L.O. 19:30); Closed: Wed.

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Tenpyo-an: (Central Nara/Japanese sweets & cafe); Have a break with Japanese sweets originating in the old village of Nara

<Overview>: Tenpyo-an specializes in traditional Japanese sweets using fine ingredients. A number of delicious and seasonal Japanese and other sweets are waiting for you in the shop on the 1st floor. Tenpyo-an's best recommendation is Yamato Sanzan, a very soft pancake with sweet red bean paste inside. There is a café on the 2nd floor where visitors can relax and enjoy a tea break with a tempting variety of sweets: a set of matcha green tea and beautiful sweet dumpling, matcha green tea parfait, etc.. It is also OK to buy sweets downstairs and bring them to the café (at least one drink order necessary).

<Recommended Items>: Matcha green tea & fresh sweet dumpling: 800 yen / Matcha green tea parfait: 800 yen / Yamato Sanzan pancake with sweet red bean paste: 157 yen / Somen noodle lunch set: 1,000 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-25-5525; Across from Nara National Museum, a 15-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta. (in the Yume-Kaze Plaza); Open: Shop:10:00-19:00, Café: 10:00-18:30 (L.O.: 18:00)

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Sakura Burger: (Central Nara/Burger); Delicious, original burger from Nara!

<Overview>: The owner of Sakura Burger has loved burgers since he was a kid and finally opened his burger shop in Nara. This is one of just a few restaurants in Nara that specializes in burgers. The best recommendation is Sakura Burger, the same as their restaurant's name. Homemade thick bacon and juicy pate is flavored with salt, pepper and tartar sauce. Add ketchup and mustard as you like. A smaller Momiji Burger uses a 100% beef pate with their original demi-glace sauce and onion. Seasonal special burgers and other varieties using Nara's local ingredients are also available. Choose additional toppings from their variety of options (baked egg, smoked cheese, etc.)!

<Recommended Items>: Sakura burger: 950 yen / Momiji burger: 500 yen / Cheese burger: 920 yen / Avocado burger: 950 yen / Chili burger: 950 yen / Topping (baked egg, avocado, homemade bacon, etc.): from 100 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-31-3813; Across from Kintetsu Nara Sta., about 5 min. walk in the Higashimuki Kita Shopping Street; Open: 11:00-21:30 (L.O.); Closed: Wed.; http://sakuraburger.com/

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Kawahara Sanjo-ya: (Central Nara/Eel cuisine); Unagi, Japan's unique delicacy

<Overview>: Traditionally, one of Japanese people's special favorite dishes is unagi, or eel dishes. A fresh eel is cleaned and cut into pieces, and then grilled over a charcoal fire while adding a sweet soy sauce-based sauce. The aroma of the sauce and soft eel meat makes it a perfect delicacy. Kawahara uses only Japanese fresh unagi (including wild eels) for their dishes. Recommended menu item is hitsumabushi, rice topped with pieces of eel served in a wooden container. First, try just the eel to savor the flavor. Next, enjoy it with rice. And for the last stage, serve it in a small bowl with broth and eat together like a rice soup. Take-out menu is also available.

<Recommended Items>: Hitsumabushi: 2,700 yen / Una-don (rice bowl topped with pieces of eel): from 1,680 yen / Weekday lunch set (pieces of grilled eel, rice, soup, egg roll): 1,370 yen / Rice ball with eel pieces: 680 yen (take-out)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-1138; A 3-min. walk from JR Nara Sta., on the north side of Sanjo; Open:1?1?:?0?0?-?1?4?:?3?0?(L.?O.:1?4?:?0?0?),?1?7?:?0?0?-?2?0?:?3?0(?L.?O.:?2?0?:?0?0?)

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Izasa: (Central Nara/Kakinoha & Izasa sushi); Nara's traditional Kakinoha Sushi & a variety of original sushi

<Overview>: Izasa specializes in original sushi creations. Izasa sushi is a rice ball with a piece of salmon wrapped in a bamboo leaf. Kakinoha sushi is a hand-shaped cube of rice seasoned with vinegar with a slice of salted mackerel on top wrapped with a persimmon leaf. Both sushi are local specialties of Nara which everyone should try. On the first floor is a shop for take-out and souvenirs and the restaurant can be found on the second floor. In the restaurant, sushi and other traditional Japanese dishes (somen noodles, tempura and other kinds of sushi) can be enjoyed.

<Recommended Items>: Assorted Izasa sushi (9 pieces of sushi with soup): 1,080 yen / Izasa sushi set (5 pieces of sushi with noodles & side dish): 1,280 yen / Izasa sushi & tempura set (5 pieces of sushi with noodles & tempura): 1,600 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-94-7133; Across from Nara National Museum, a 15-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta. (in the Yume-Kaze Plaza); Open:restaurant: 11:00-20:00 (L.O.: 19:00), shop: 9:30-19:00; http://www.izasa.co.jp/

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Momotaro: (Central Nara/Somen noodle & Japanese sake); Perfect combination of Nara's local specialties

<Overview>: Somen is a popular form of Japanese noodle. These super thin noodles are made from flour following traditional techniques. One of Nara's local specialties is Miwa somen, a high quality noodle made in Sakurai City. Miwa somen is famous throughout Japan for its firm texture and superior. Generally enjoyed as a popular dish during summer (eaten chilled), nyumen (somen in hot broth) is another way of enjoying somen during the winter months. Momotaro also specializes in a wide range of Nara's locally brewed sake (tasting & purchase), including some very rare varieties.

<Recommended Items>: Somen (in hot broth) set: 650 yen / Original chopstick set for gift: 250 yen / Sake tasting: from 300 yen / Bottle of sake: from 1,000 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-7700; About 10-min. walk from JR Nara Sta. or a 5-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., on the north side of Sanjo; Open:10:00-19:00 / Closed:irregularly

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Harishin: (Central Nara/Japanese dish); A variety of hearty and healthy dishes for your complete contentment

<Overview>: Harishin’s classical Japanese building is about 230 years old. The first generation owner of Harishin started the restaurant 130 years ago in a different area of Nara and it was moved to the present location about 100 years ago. Today, the 6th generation owner has taken over the business. The interior is separated into two sections, both offering a truly Japanese atmosphere. One is a large Japanese room with low tables and the other features a large sunken floor table with a hearth. The reasonably priced Kamitsumichi Bento set and tempura set using many of Nara’s local products are both popular.

<Recommended Items>: Kamitsumichi Bento set: 2,900 yen / Tempura Gozen set: 1,500 yen / Kaiseki course: 4,000 yen, 6,000 yen, 8,000 yen (reservation required 2 days before)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-2669; About 12-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., west of Gango-ji Temple; Open:11:30-14:30 (L.O.), 18:00-22:00 (L.O.) / Closed:Mon.

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Sakura Suisan: (Central Nara/Izakaya Japanese style bar); Fully enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi at low prices!

<Overview>: Sakura Suisan is a Japanese style bar which is proud of their fresh seafood. Seafood for the day is brought straight away and served as sushi and sashimi. Assorted sushi of the day (9 pieces) includes popular tuna, salmon and other special choices. Assorted sashimi of the day includes 6 kinds of sashimi. Many other menu options are available at a very low price. On weekdays, their reasonably priced lunch set is especially popular. The set is only 500 yen including either grilled or fried fish with rice and miso soup. The sashimi lunch set (650 yen) is also recommended.

<Recommended Items>: Sashimi of the day (6 kinds): 950 yen / Hand-shaped sushi (5 piece): 380 yen / Sakura seafood pizza: 504 yen / Draft beer (middle size): 440 yen / Lunch set (grilled fish or fried fish): 500 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-20-7551; A 3-min. walk from JR Nara Sta., on the north side of Sanjo; Open:11:00-14:00 (weekday only), 16:00-23:30 (L.O.: 22:45)

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Kanakana: (Central Nara/Café in a traditional machiya house); A variety of hearty and healthy dishes for your complete contentment

<Overview>: Kanakana is located in the nostalgic Naramachi town area and is very popular with locals and tourists. Dating from the 1920s, the building was renovated while keeping the original structures and now provides a relaxing atmosphere for diners taking their meals in the homey open space. Kanakana’s heartwarming dishes all use fresh ingredients and are carefully prepared. The most popular menu item, Kanakana Gohan, includes one main dish and a selection of four other dishes served in pretty small dishes and bowls, dessert and coffee/tea/herb tea.

<Recommended Items>: Kanakana plate: 1,250 yen / Shrimp curry: 900 yen / Spinach curry: 850 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-3214; A 15-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., to the southeast of Gango-ji Temple; Open:11:00-20:00 / Closed:Monday

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mellow cafe: (Central Nara/Café, dining and bar); A relaxing, spacious Bali style café & dining

<Overview>: mellow café’s interior furniture and decoration are all directly imported from Bali. There is also a bar counter and stone oven used for baking their most popular pizzas. Diners can enjoy their Italian dishes including 10-15 kinds of hot and freshly-baked pizza, fresh pasta, sweets and drink items. The unique Narazuke pizza using Narazuke pickles and sake lee sauce is outstanding. It has a strong smell and flavor but once you acquire the taste, you will never forget it! Visit mellow café whenever you are in the mood for lunch, café, dinner or drinks and enjoy a memorable dining experience.

<Recommended Items>: Pizza (Narazuke pickles & sake lee sauce): 1,300 yen / Pizza lunch: 1100 yen / mellow lunch: 1200 yen / Beer: from 500 yen / Cake (Bambi roll): 480 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-27-9099; A 2-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., on the east side of Konishi Sakura Street; Open:11:00-23:30 (L.O.: 23:00); English menu / Wifi available

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Gallery & Café Takeno: (Central Nara/Gallery & Cafe); Enjoy a pleasant meal, sweets, tea/coffee and art all together

<Overview>: Shizue, the mother, and her two daughters, Ai and Mai, opened this attractive gallery & café in September 2010. Half of the space is a gallery and the other is a café space where you can have a relaxing time viewing the art works. Their lunch set has three options: bagel, quiche or spicy chicken curry. Their homemade cakes include cheese cake, chocolate, tart of the day, tube cake and more. The coffee and tea menu is also worth a look as there are a variety of kinds to choose from. Enjoy a pleasant meal or sweets, a comfortable time and art all at the same time.

<Recommended Items>: Lunch set (bagel, quiche or spicy chicken curry): from 700 yen (+300 yen with drink) / Cake set: 750 yen / Coffee: from 400 yen / Beer: 600 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-7615; A 10-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., southwest of Sarusawa Pond; Open:10:30-19:00 / Closed:Mon., 1st Tues. of the month

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Fukutoku: (Central Nara/Udon & soba noodle dishes); Stir well and enjoy the taste of broth and udon noodles

<Overview>: Udon is a popular Japanese noodle dish and Fukutoku’s “Kakimaze Nara Udon” is filled with the owner’s pride. Regular udon is made of flour, water and salt but Fukutoku omits the salt so the noodles have a special texture and taste. Another secret of Fukutoku’s udon is how they make the broth. Shredded bonito flakes and soy sauce is put at the bottom of the bowl and boiled noodle are placed on top. Then hot water is added along with a super thin tangle of shaved kelp. Stir the contents well from the bottom of the bowl before eating for a perfect combination of broth and noodles! Try Fukutoku’s udon and savor its original taste.

<Recommended Items>: Tokusen udon (with assorted tempura): 1,100 yen / Udon set (with three side dishes, rice, pickles): 1,100 yen / Udon topped with shrimp tempura and seaweed: 890 yen / Udon topped with thin tangle of shaved kelp and seaweed: 740 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-2900; On the east side of Sarusawa Pond; Open:11:00-15:00, 17:00-21:00 (closes when noodles are sold out) / Closed:Mon. (open on national holidays)

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Naraya: (Central Nara/Meals & souvenirs of Nara); Try hot kama-meshi while taking in the superb view of Todai-ji Temple and Mt. Wakakusa!

<Overview>: Naraya is one of the restaurants located in Yume-Kaze Plaza. The second floor is a café/restaurant space where diners can enjoy a superb view of Todai-ji Temple and Mt. Wakakusa. Naraya’s most recommended dish is their kama-meshi, a rice dish cooked in a small iron pot with various toppings. Another recommendation is Yamato-cha udon noodles, cooked with locally grown green tea powder which turns the noodles bright green. There is a souvenir shop on the first floor where an array of Nara’s goods and souvenirs are available.

<Recommended Items>: Special kama-meshi with miso soup: 980 yen, with udon noodle: 1,180 yen / Mushroom kama-meshi with miso soup: 780 yen, with udon noodle: 980 yen / Yamato-cha matcha udon noodle (chilled or hot): 650 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-5233; Across from Nara National Museum, a 15-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta. (in the Yume-Kaze Plaza); Open everyday: 11:00-17:00 (shop: 10:00-18:00)

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ninetrack: (Central Nara/Izakaya & bar); A bar with a wide range of drinks, Japanese dishes and finest quality Japanese beef dishes

<Overview>: Located very close from Kintetsu Nara Station, ninetrack is always crowded with locals and regular customers. It is a relatively small and stylish bar (6 counter seats and 5 tables) and has a full range of drink options. Recommended is a cocktail made with MONIN liquor (55 different kinds of flavors). Tell the bartender your preference and he will make a perfect drink just for you. What makes ninetrack even more special is that they offer some excellent Japanese dishes as their chef specializes in Japanese cuisine. Dishes using finest quality Miyazaki beef are a must-try (sashimi, broiled, beef stew, etc.; changed daily)! Both the drinks and the food selection at ninetrack is outstanding.

<Recommended Items>: Antipasto: 3 kinds: 480 yen, 5 kinds: 630 yen / Pasta: from 680 yen / Cocktail: from 580 yen / wine: glass: 500 yen, bottle: 2,800 yen / Miyazaki beef course (with all-you-can-drink): 8,000 yen (reservation required)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-0099; Basement floor of Prime Bldg., across from Kintetsu Nara Sta.; Open:18:00-3:00 (L.O. 2:30); men only groups are not accepted between 18:00 and 21:00 / Closed: Mon.

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PARCO: (Central Nara/Okonomi-yaki); Hot and tasty, original & unique Okonomi-yaki

<Overview>: Okonomi-yaki is a popular dish of Japan, particularly in the Kansai region. It can best be described as a thin, flat pancake with chopped cabbage cooked on a hot plate with bits of meat, seafood and other toppings. Located on the main tourist route, a few-minute walk from Sarusawa Pond, there is a pretty Okonomi-yaki restaurant named PARCO. They offer a wide range of Okonomi-yaki, from typical to original. A popular selection among foreign visitors is the one using fine quality, extra thin beef used for shabu-shabu. PARCO’s original “Italian” and “American” style (using cheese and bacon) are also very popular. During the winter months, oyster & negi (green onion) Okonomi-yaki is worth trying as a seasonal specialty.

<Recommended Items>: Okonomi-yaki: with shabu-shabu beef: 950 yen, Italian: 850 yen, American: 850 yen, Gyu suji (simmered beef) & negi (green onion): 830 yen / fried noodle: chow-mein (Chinese-style soy sauce flavor): 600 yen, with pork: 650 yen / tomato salad: 450 yen; pork omelet: 550 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-8885; About 2-min. walk to the south from Sarusawa Pond, across from Hotel Sunroute Nara; Open:11:30-14:30, 17:00-21:00 / Closed:Mon.

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PINOCCHIO: (Central Nara/Original cuisine using vegetables, millet, salty rice mold); Relaxing café and dining moment in an atmospheric old Japanese house

<Overview>: PINOCCHIO is a relaxing and modern café and dining establishment located in a 100-year-old traditional Japanese house. You will need some time to decide what to order as PINOCCHIO offers a variety of menu options: pizza, pasta, rice omelet, pilaf (fried rice with toppings), doria (grilled rice with white sauce), and more. Many locals and tourists have been fans of PINOCCHIO for many years since their opening in 1968. Their home-made tube cake of the day is very popular. Try their freshly baked fluffy tube cake with home-roasted coffee for a break during your sightseeing in Nara.

<Recommended Items>: Rice omelet: 680 yen / Spaghetti peperoncino: 680 yen / Tomato & cheese pizza: 735 yen / Rice bowl topped with deep-fried beef fillet: 780 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-4215; A 5-min. walk from JR Nara Sta., on the south side of Sanjo; Open:11:00-22:00 (L O: 21:30) / Closed:Thurs.

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Hana: (Central Nara/Original cuisine using vegetables, millet, salty rice mold); A variety of hearty and healthy dishes for your complete contentment

<Overview>: Hana is in a quiet local residential area a little away from the main tourist area. However, Hana, situated in an old Japanese house, is full of light and warmth. Dishes you will enjoy at Hana are all healthy and will appeal to both your body and mind. They use vegetables that are directly brought from local farmers and a variety of millets with some meat (vegetarians welcome too!). Instead of sugar and salt, they use a special salty fermented rice and raisins as seasonings which takes more time and effort to cook, but will make the dishes even more tasty. Each dish is served separately on a small plate. Take time to fully enjoy Hana’s special taste and hearty food.

<Recommended Items>: Lunch course: 2,480 yen, 3,580 yen / Dinner course: 2,700 yen, 3,800 yen, 4,300 yen / *Lunch course include about 12 dishes (seasonal soup, fried dish, salad, home-made bacon, vegetarian sushi, rice, dessert, etc.). *Vegetarians and vegans welcome!

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-2178; Take Nara Kotsu Bus #4 from Kintetsu Nara Sta. and get off at Takabatake-jutaku and walk about 10-min.; Open:11:30~, 17:30~ (dinner time open only Fri., Sat., Sun.) / Closed:Wed., Thurs.; http://www.hana-nara.com

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Kissako-an: (Central Nara/Matcha green tea & tea ceremony experience); Feel the Japanese spirit with a bowl of matcha green tea

<Overview>: A small but wonderful space that lets you experience the world of Japanese culture opened this summer in the nostalgic Naramachi area. You can experience the world of tea ceremony and the fine taste of matcha green tea. The owner, Mr. Hirano, is a tea ceremony master and he carefully prepares a bowl of matcha green tea for each customer in the manner of traditional tea ceremony. The first floor is all table-and-chair-style seats, so don’t worry about sitting on the floor for a long time! There is a real tea ceremony room on the second floor. You can watch the procedure of tea ceremony by Mr. Hirano or even can try it by yourself. The taste of fine and mild (not too bitter!) matcha perfectly compliments their home-made Japanese sweets.

<Recommended Items>: Matcha green tea with ohagi dumpling: 753 yen / Tea ceremony experience (watch the ceremony): 1,000 yen / Tea ceremony experience (try yourself): with ohagi: 980 yen; with small sweet: 880 yen / Tea bowls and other ceramics are also displayed and sold.

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-81-7407; A 5-min. walk to the southeast from Gango-ji Temple; Open:10:00-18:00 / Closed:Wed.

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Geppoh: (Central Nara/French cuisine); Unique mixture of Japanese and Western in dishes and interior

<Overview>: A short walk from the main Sanjo Street, there is a unique restaurant in a narrow lane. Geppoh is a French restaurant, though it doesn’t look so from its old style Japanese entrance. The building used to be a soba noodle shop and Geppoh’s owner decided to use the original Japanese-style counter seats in the front space of the restaurant. Then, when you step into the other side, there are western-style table seats in a room decorated with artworks. The Lunch Set is reasonably priced from 750 yen. Popular Hana course includes a choice of 6 main dishes (recommended is the incredibly delicate beef cheek meat stewed in red wine). Other a la carte dishes are also available.

<Recommended Items>: Lunch: A set: 750 yen (soup or miso soup, salad, main dish, bread or rice) / B set: 1,300 yen (plus dessert) / Beef stew set: 2,000 yen / Dinner: Hana course: 3,500 yen (hors d'oeuvre, soup, main dish, bread or rice, dessert, coffee); choose from one of 6 main dishes (fried shrimp, stewed cow’s cheek meat with red wine, white fish sauté, etc.) / Steak course: 3,150 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-4325; About 5 min. walk to the south along Konishi Sakura St. from Kintetsu Nara Sta.; Open:11:30-14:00, 17:30-22:00 / Closed:Sun.; http://irori-tanaka.hp.infoseek.co.jp/

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Irori Dining Tanaka: (Central Nara/charcoal grilled Nara beef, seafood); Savor the finest quality Japanese beef and fresh seafood in relaxing Japanese atmosphere

<Overview>: Just next to Gango-ji Temple, one of the World Heritage temples in Nara, in the nostalgic Naramachi area, stands an excellent restaurant: Tanaka. Here you can enjoy Nara’s local beef and other finest quality Japanese beef as well as fresh seafood brought directly from the port and Nara’s locally grown vegetables. Each table is equipped with an open hearth and customers can grill their own ingredients. The dinner course includes grilled Japanese beef as the main dish and appetizer, seafood, salad and dessert. You will be amazed by the rich taste and tenderness of their beef. The one plate lunch (beef with some Japanese dishes) is very popular. Enjoy both the luxury taste and atmosphere at Tanaka.

<Recommended Items>: Tanaka’s special dinner course: 5,000-12,000 yen / Lunch plate: 2,000 yen (dessert set: plus 800 yen) / Nara beef lunch course: 5000 yen / Meat, seafood, vegetables and other a la carte menus are available.

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-0541; About 10 min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., across from Gango-ji Temple; Open:12:00-14:00, 17:00-22:00 / Closed:Tues.; http://irori-tanaka.hp.infoseek.co.jp/

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Naramachi Ashibi no Sato: (Central Nara/Nara’s pickles, Japanese meals & café); Enjoy the taste of Nara in a traditional Japanese setting with spacious garden

<Overview>: This restaurant used to be a Japanese pickle production shop and factory. Here you can enjoy typical Japanese meals including their special pickles. You won’t believe you are in just one restaurant as they have seats in a traditional Japanese room, a renovated massive storage area, a spacious salon room with fine views and a garden terrace. A recommended selection is the Otsukemono Gozen set which includes about 10 different kinds of pickles from typical Nara pickles to unique seasonal ones. Other set menus including sushi and udon noodles, matcha green tea with sweets or beer and locally brewed sake are also available. On a sunny day, have a tea or drink on their bright garden terrace and enjoy a relaxing break during your exploration of Nara.

<Recommended Items>: Otsukemono gozen pickle set: 1,400 yen / Ashibi gozen set: 1,500 yen / Udon noodle set: 1,000 yen / Matcha green tea & Japanese sweet: 800 yen / Nara’s locally brewed sake: from 700 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-6662; A 15-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., walk through the Mochiidono Shopping Arcade and enter Namachi area; Open:10:00-sunset / Closed:irregularly; http://www4.kcn.ne.jp/~ashibi/

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Ryozanpaku: (Central Nara /Japanese cuisine); Japanese dishes and fine sake in an old Japanese folk house

<Overview>: Ryozanpaku has offered excellent Japanese dishes using Nara’s and other area’s seasonal delicacies and locally brewed sake for 40 years. From a multi-course kaiseki to unique a la carte dishes, they regularly offer more than 70 options. The reasonably priced weekend lunch set is also popular. Ryozanpaku’s appeal lies not only in the dishes but also in the atmosphere. You will feel as if you are visiting an old village folk house upon seeing the wooden furniture, traditional decorations, thick overhead beams, etc.. Each dish faithfully illustrates their chef’s creativity and expertise.

<Recommended Menus>: Oyster hotpot with miso-based soup: 1,100 yen / Assorted sashimi of the day: 1,600 yen / Tofu steak: 550 yen / Assorted seasonal tempura: 850 yen / Weekend special lunch set: 1,500 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-2523; Open:11:30-14:30 (reservation required for weekday lunch), 17:00-23:00 (L.O. 22:30) /; A 10-min. walk from JR and Kintetsu Nara Sta., turn to the south at Yasuragi-no-michi and turn to the west at the third narrow lane; http://www.nara-ryozanpaku.com/

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Naramachi Tofu-an Kondo: (Central Nara /Tofu cuisine); Soft and fresh tofu dishes in a classical Japanese house

<Overview>: Kondo specializes in tofu cuisine. No wonder. Their tofu comes from a shop which has offered fresh tofu for 60 years. Set in a traditional house in the historical Naramachi area, here customers can enjoy a wide range of tofu and yuba (soymilk skin) dishes. You will be amazed by how many different tastes there are to experience! Kondo’s tofu uses 100% Japanese soy beans. One of the unique dishes calls for diners to warm up tofu in soy milk at the table. Savor the very simple yet rich taste of tofu itself.

<Recommended Menus>: Lunch course: Yuki: 2,000 yen, Tsubaki: 3,200 yen (with hand-made yuba) Dinner course: Tofu course: 4,200 yen (12 tofu dishes and dessert), Beef shabushabu course: 6,800 yen (7 tofu dishes and beef shabushabu)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-4694; Open: 11:00-14:30, 17:30-20:00 (reservation recommended for lunch time and necessary for dinner time) / Closed: Mon. (open on national holidays and close next day); About 15 min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., west of Goryo Shrine

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Kyo-ya: (Central Nara /Japanese style bar); A nostalgic Japanese style izakaya bar in a backstreet

<Overview>: Kyo-ya has a traditional Japanese atmosphere in every way starting with the building itself which is an old Japanese house. There are horigotatsu (sunken floor) table seats so customers don’t have to worry about sitting on the floor for a long time. Kyo-ya’s dishes use a lot of Nara and Japan specialties: Nara chicken, sashimi, tempura, grilled fish, meat and more. Their summer specialty is hamo conger eel while in winter fugu blowfish is the seasonal selection. If you are unsure of what dishes to select, consider trying Kyo-ya’s recommended course. They will never disappoint you!

<Recommended Menus>: Tori-yaki grilled chicken: 525 yen/ Kyo-ya’s recommended course: 2,100 yen / Draft beer: 525 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-1520; Open: 11:30-14:00, 17:00-23:00 (L.O. 22:00) / Closed: Sun.; About 10 min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., enter Mochiidono Center Arcade and turn left at the third narrow lane

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RAHOTSU: (Central Nara /Thai cuisine); Unique combination of Nara’s local specialties and Thai tastes

<Overview>: RAHOTSU’s Thai and Asian dishes are simple yet each one accentuates the fine taste of the ingredients. Curiously, both Thai and Japanese cuisine employs common cooking methods. Here you can try original dishes which combine the best of Nara’s local products and Thai dishes, for example, Miwa somen (super thin flour noodle) in tom yam kung soup. Another appealing option is their curry made with ancient rice, Japanese pepper and lotus root, all of which existed in the Nara period (8th century).

<Recommended Menus>: Tom yam kung (spicy Thai soup) with somen noodle: 900 yen / 1300-year curry and rice (using ancient rice and Nara’s local products): 800 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-1180; Open: 11:30-14:30, 17:30-22:00 / Closed: Mon.; Across from the Old Daijo-in Temple Garden

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La Terrasse: (Central Nara /French cuisine); Authentic French cuisine overlooking a superb view of Nara

<Overview>: La Terrasse is a French restaurant located on the slope of Mount Wakakusa with a fine view of Nara city. In the autumn, the autumn leaves will add color to your dining experience. The walls are all made of glass creating a bright daytime interior. Their chief chef formerly worked in the 2-star Michelin restaurant in France and the Ritz Carlton Osaka. Truly an unforgettable setting during your exploration of Nara in which to experience a superb full-course meal of French cuisine using seasonal delicacies.

<Recommended Menus>: Lunch A: hors d'oeuvre, soup, fish or meat dish, dessert, coffee or tea: 3,675 yen / Dinner A: hors d'oeuvre, soup, fish dish, meat dish, dessert, coffee or tea: from 7,875 yen / Today’s recommended dinner course: 10,500 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel:0742-27-0556; Open: 11:30-14:30, 18:00-21:00 / Closed: Tues.; In the Hilltop Terrace, a 5-min. walk from Kasuga Taisha Honden-mae bus stop; http://www.hilltopterrace.co.jp/

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PEPITA D’ORO: (Central Nara /Italian cuisine); Nara’s local specialties reborn as Italian cuisine

<Overview>: PEPITA D’ORO’s owner chef spent several years cooking at various famous restaurants in Italy and Tokyo before returning to his hometown of Nara to open his own restaurant early this year. He selects many of Nara’s local foods in the creation of his original seasonal dishes. Here you can enjoy not only typical Italian cuisine but also imaginative versions of Nara’s specialties: Miyazaki chicken sauté with teriyaki sauce, curry with Nara’s ancient black rice, etc.. Try the unique tastes that only Pepita D’oro can offer you.

<Recommended Menus>: Dinner course: from 2,300 yen / Lunch: from 1,050 yen / A la carte: from 980 yen / Glass wine: from 750 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-25-5533; Open: 11:30-14:00 (L.O. 13:30), 18:00-20:00 (L.O. 20:30), seasonally changed Closed: Mon., Tues. lunchtime and another 2 days a month irregularly; About 5-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., enter the Mochiidono Center Arcade and turn left at the second corner

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Dining bar & cafe haco: (Central Nara /Bar & cafe); A stylish dining bar with delicious food and drinks

<Overview>: Once you enter haco, what immediately grabs your attention will be the unique movable box style table seats. Of course, regular table seats and a bar counter are also available. For lunch, café, dinner and drinks at the bar… You will surely be satisfied with the moments you spend at haco at anytime. They have several kinds of foreign beers and more than 50 kinds of wines. haco’s menu offers about 60 dishes, principally Italian, but all exhibiting the chef’s creativity. They remain open until quite late so customers can enjoy their evening in Nara far into the night.

<Recommended Menus>: Lunch set of the day: 850 yen (1,280 yen with drink and soup) / Raw ham and parmigiano risotto: 780 yen / Aglio e olio peperoncino with shrimp: 1,480 yen/Glass wine: from 600 yen / Beer: from 500 yen / Cocktails: from 600 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-8508; Open: 11:00-15:00, 17:00-1:00 (until 3:00 on Sat., Sun., & national holidays); 2F of Isokawa Bldg., on the west side of Yasuragi-no-michi, north of Nara City Tourist Center; http://www.bar-haco.com/

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SAVAS Café: (Central Nara /Café); Try their homemade tube-cake

<Overview>: SAVAS Café produces more than 100 kinds of tube-cakes. One of their most popular is the maccha green tea tube-cake. Nara’s local green tea leaf powder is mixed in the cake and further sprinkled on the surface so that the cake emanates the fresh, rich aroma of green tea. Another recommended option is Hoji-cha brown tea jelly parfait. Hoji-cha brown tea jelly, maccha tube-cake and ice creams are all here amongst a delicious assortment of tempting treats!

<Recommended Menus>: Maccha green tea tube-cake set ( with a drink ) : 800 yen / Hoji-cha brown tea jelly parfait: 600 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 090-1156-8388; Open: 10:00-20:00 / Closed: Wed.; About 10 min. walk to the east from JR Nara Sta. and turn to the south at Yasuragino-michi st., and on the right side

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Yaki-tei JUJU: (Central Nara /Teppan-yaki & Okonomi-yaki); Nara’s top quality local beef and sake!

<Overview>: The name of the restaurant “JUJU” represents the sound when meat and other ingredients are grilled on an iron plate. Meat, seafood, vegetables and Okonomi-yaki (like a Japanese pizza) are grilled on a large iron plate. One of the must-try dishes on the menu at JUJU is Nara’s locally grown Yamato beef and either a simple steak or the hamburger steak is recommended. Customers can enjoy not only beef but also Nara’s local pork and chicken at JUJU. Watching how the staff grills the food is fun, too!

<Recommended Menus>: Yamato pork cutlet lunch: 1,300 yen; Yamato beef hamburger steak lunch: 1,300 yen; Yamato beef diced steak lunch: 2,100 yen; *lunch menus are served 30 sets a day.

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-1010; Open: 12:00-14:30 (closed Mon. & Tues.), 17:00-24:00 / Closed: Tues. (open if Tues. is a national holiday); On the 2nd floor of the building, a 5-min. walk from JR Nara Sta., on the south side of Sanjo Street, across from a park

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RAGAMALA: (Central Nara /Indian curry); Indian atmosphere, with classic Indian music & original curry

<Overview>: The melodious and sublime classical music of India in a traditional Japanese house which used to be a geisha residence… RAGAMALA, located very very narrow lane behind bustle shopping street, is an utterly unique and one-of-a-kind restaurant. Every dish is perfect for vegetarians (egg and milk products are used in some dishes). Due to less salt and oil, their chickpea curry and vegetable curry are very light yet exquisite flavoured. Come to RAGAMALA and enjoy a slow and delectable world.

<Recommended Menus>: Lunch set: 850 yen; Chickpea curry: 850 yen; Vegetable curry: 900 yen Chapati (Inidian thin bread): 200 yen; Shrikhand cake (banana cake with Indian yogurt cream): 400 yen; Chai: 450 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-3445; Open: 11:40-15:00, 17:30-20:00 (until 21:00 on Sat., Sun., national holidays) / Closed: Tues. & Fri. (open on national holidays); In the Mochiidono Shopping Arcade, about 50 meters from north entrance, turn left at the very narrow lane, on the right side

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Umemori: (Central Nara /Sushi & Japanese sweets); A new food creation using Nara’s traditional ingredients

<Overview>: Umemori offers unique kinds of sushi: Wasabi-ha sushi and ancient Anara sushi. Sushi rice is flavored with special plum vinegar. A ball of sushi rice topped with mackerel, salmon, eel or shrimp is wrapped with a green wasabi (horse radish) leaf. Anara sushi uses ancient red rice topped with Nara’s special pickles and conger eel. In addition to its unique sushi, Umemori also offers original sweets of which wasabi ice cream is the most highly recommended.

<Recommended Menus>: Wasabi-ha sushi (mackerel, salmon, eel, shrimp): 280 yen; Ancient Anara sushi: 320 yen; Set of Wasabi-ha sushi & Anara sushi: 1,440 yen; Rolled Wasabi-ha sushi (mackerel, salmon, conger eel): 1,500 yen; Naramachi ice cream (wasabi, ancient rice, black bean): 350 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-6775; Open: 11:00-17:00; About 200 meters to the south of Sarusawa Pond, across from Hotel Sunroute Nara

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Kotaro: (Central Nara /Tai-yaki Japanese sweet); Try savoring proverbial sweet of Japan

<Overview>: Tai-yaki is a proverbial Japanese sweet loved by everyone. “Tai” is a sea bream and tai-yaki is like a pancake in the shape of a sea bream filled with sweet red bean paste. Kotaro’s tai-yaki differs from the common form as it is a “jumping sea bream” which represents auspiciousness. Every tai-yaki is carefully baked by hand of the owner. Kotaro is housed in a classic Japanese residence adding a special atmosphere to the enjoyment of savoring this traditional Japanese taste.

<Recommended Menus>: Tai-yaki: 100 yen; Home-baked bread using natural yeast and weekly-changed sweets are availably on Sat. & Sun.

<Shop Data>: Tel: 090-3238-0297; Open: 11:00-19:00 / Closed: Mon.; About 15-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta. to the south along Yasuragi no Michi, the shop is one street east from Yasuragi no Michi

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CONCEPT: (Central Nara / Wine bar); A tiny bar for wine & cheese lovers

<Overview>: Concept is a very small intimate bar with just six counter seats that opened only one year ago. The owner used to work as a French chef and has selected several wines for your enjoyment: red, white and sparkling. Of course you should try some cheese to compliment your wine! Recommended is an assortment of 5 kinds which will surely satisfy your palate. The food selections are also worth trying – not surprising considering the owner’s career as a French chef! Pasta using seasonal and local Nara vegetables comes highly recommended. Visit Concept and spend some time reminiscing on your time in Nara while enjoying their memorable wine, cheese and food…

<Recommended Menus>: Glass wine: 400 yen (500 yen after 22:00); Assorted cheese: 1,000 yen; Pasta with Nara vegetables: 1,200 yen; Hoegaarden White: 750 yen; Chimay (750 ml): 2,200 yen

<Shop Data>: Two streets west from Yasuragino-michi, on the south side of the street; Open: 19:00-1:30 (L.O.), food order by 22:00

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TAIKO: (Central Nara / Chinese Home Dishes); Offering Chinese dishes for 38 years in a nostalgic Japanese market

<Overview>: Taiko is a small Chinese eatery in a nostalgic, very narrow and small market. Don’t hesitate to open the door! The owner couple has welcomed customers with delicious food and warmth for 38 years. Everything you order at Taiko is cooked by the owner or his wife and comes in large servings, full of vegetables, full of their affection and what is more, very reasonably priced. They offer almost 100 different dishes and are open until late! Take your seats at the counter and enjoy talking to the owner and the local people who have cherished Taiko for many years.

<Recommended Menus>: Tsubai Ramen Chinese noodle in soup: 580 yen; Ramen with simmered pork hams: 800 yen; Fried rice: 600 yen; Rice bowls: from 750 yen (beef, chicken, fried egg, etc.); Lunch set: from 750 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-4935; About 200 meters south from Sanjo Street, in the Tsubai Market across from Tsubai Elementary School; Open: 12:00-14:00, 17:00-24:00

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Coffee & Books PAVILION: (Central Nara / Cafe & Worldwide picture books); Delicious coffee, warmth and picture books from around the world

<Overview>: As you walk into the extremely narrow lane, you may feel nervous that you have trespassed on someone’s private property. However, this is where you will discover Pavilion. Formerly an old house, the building has been reborn as a cozy, nice café. Upon entering, you will immediately notice a number of picture books displayed along the wall. The owner, Ms. Ohnishi, has travelled the world in search for these picture books from Czech, Germany, France, England, Scandinavian countries, etc. Flipping through their pages while enjoying home-roasted coffee or tea, you can enter into a colorful and nostalgic world. The owners always offer a warm welcome and are happy to chat with any customers who find their way to the cafe.

<Recommended Menus>: Home-roasted coffee: 400 yen; Café au lait: 450 yen; Tea: cup 400 yen, pot 580 yen; Cheese cake/ Gâteau au chocolat: 420 yen each; Cake set: from 700 yen; Picture books: from 3,000 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-5199; Turn north at the corner next to the Washington Hotel, walk for about 200 meters and then turn into the narrow lane on the left; Open: 12:00-19:00 (L.O. 18:30); Closed: Mon., Tues., Wed.; www.pavilion-b.com/

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TOUSENBOU: (Central Nara / Tofu & traditional Japanese cuisine); Authentic Japanese cuisine and unique tofu & yuba menus

<Overview>: Tousenbou is a popular Japanese restaurant specializing in tofu and yuba (a by-product of tofu. The thin skin on the heated soymilk is skimmed and eaten as yuba). All lunch and dinner menus include their homemade tofu. In addition to the full-meal menus, Tousenbou’s original sweet selections are a must! How about trying a small white cheese & tofu ball made from only soymilk and cream cheese? Tofu & yuba croquettes and black tofu curd doughnuts (using bamboo charcoal and sweet red beans inside) are also popular (take-out OK).

<Recommended Menus>: Course menus: Heijo: 1,200 yen (6 dishes: hand-made tofu, noodles in warm broth, etc.); Wakakusa: 1,800 yen (8 dishes: hand-made tofu, soy milk corn soup, etc.); Takamado: 2,400 yen (10 dishes: hand-made tofu, tofu curd croquette, etc.); Tofu & yuba croquette: 100 yen; Black tofu curd doughnut: 100 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-0633; On the south side of Sanjo, 50 meters north of the north entrance of Mochiidono Shopping Center; Open: 11:00-20:00 (café only: 14:30-16:30, L.O. 19:30)

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Soba-kiri Momoyozuki: (Central Nara / Soba buckwheat noodles); Experience the real taste of traditional Japanese Soba

<Overview>: Soba are noodles made from buckwheat flour and symbolize one of the most traditional and familiar dishes in Japan. These days, buckwheat is generally ground by machine but at Momoyozuki, you can try soba noodles made from hand-ground buckwheat. Compared to conventionally produced soba, the hand-ground noodles have a rougher texture and contain a much stronger flavor of the buckwheat itself. You can also try machine-ground noodles if you like, so why don’t you try both and taste the difference?

<Recommended Menus>: Hand-ground soba: 1,050 yen (10 servings available a day); Soba with ume sour plum pickles & nori seaweed (Soy sauce- based soup poured over): 945 yen; Soba with yuzu citrus & Japanese pepper (dipping in a soup style): 945 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-5158; Across from Kintetsu Nara Sta., one minute walk to the north from the taxi stop on the north side of the street; Open: 11:30-14:30, 15:30-19:30; Closed: Tues evening. and all day on Wed.

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Shokusai Bo Kichiza Denemon: (Central Nara/seasonal Japanese cuisine); Best tastes of the season from all over Japan

<Overview>: Kichiza Denemon respects the superior taste of seasonal ingredients, for example, sashimi, using fresh seafood of the day. The recommended selection for lunch is Kichiza Gozen which includes 8 kinds of Obanzai (Japanese home dishes) and the Hyakuso-zen set with 7 kinds of Obanzai and an appetizer. For dinner, the Irodori no Bon set goes perfectly with sake as does the Nanashi no Gonbei course. Also try their wide range of local sake from Nara and northern Japan and the shochu distilled spirit.

<Recommended Menus>: Lunch: Hyakuso-zen: 1,800 yen; Kichiza Gozen: 1,300 yen; Dinner: Irodori no Bon set (5 dishes; sashimi, grilled seafood, etc.): 2,100 yen; Nanashino Gonbei course (10 dishes; sashimi, grilled dish, deep-fried dish, dessert, etc.): 3,885 yen; Assorted tempura: 1,260 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-4700; On the east side of Yasuragi no Michi, south of Sanjo, across from Isagawa Shrine; Open: 11:00-15:00 (L.O.: 14:30), 17:30-23:00 (L.O.: 22:30), closed irregularly; http://kichiza.com/

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BEKKAN PIATTO: (Central Nara/Italian restaurant); Authentic Italian pasta using Italian grandma’s recipe in Nara

<Overview>: BEKKAN PIATTO is a small and stylish Italian restaurant. Some Italian visitors are not inclined to try pasta in Japan because they believe their pasta at home is unequaled. However, even Italians who know the real taste of pasta praise BEKKAN PIATTO’S dishes! Their homemade tomato sauce is particularly outstanding. The recipe was used by Japan’s first female Italian chef who moved to Italy more than 70 years ago. Not only standard pasta dishes but also seasonal menus, cheese, raw ham and wine selections should be tried. Ask their staff for that day’s special (English spoken).

<Recommended Menus>: Pescatore: 1,600 yen; Bongole bianco: 1,300 yen; Prosciutto & salami: 1 kind: from 600 yen, 3 kinds: from 1,200 yen; Glass wine: from 600 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-5581; 2F of Flats Konishi Bldg., on the north side of Konishi Sakura St., next to VIVRE shopping building; Open: 11:00-14:00 (L.O.), 18:00-21:30 (L.O.); Closed: irregularly

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Totogin: (Central Nara / Conveyor-belt Sushi); Cheap, delicious and fun! Enjoy “Conveyor-belt sushi” in Nara

<Overview>: Fresh seafood is delivered directly from the port everyday and become delicious sushi under the skilled hands of experienced sushi chefs. Not only standard toppings (tuna, yellow tail, shrimp, squid, rolled sushi) but also extra special toppings and original sushi are popular. There are always 100 kinds of sushi waiting for you! Most of the sushi on the conveyor-belt are priced at just 126 yen. If you feel like trying some with a gorgeous and outstanding taste, try the special orders for extra taste!

<Recommended Menus>: Sushi: from 126 yen/plate; Special sushi: from 320 yen/plate; Draft beer: from 340 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-20-1010; In the Higashimuki Shopping Arcade, on the East side (1-min. from Kintetsu Nara Sta.); Open everyday: 11:00-22:00 (L.O.: 21:30); http://www.totogin.com/

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Shinju-an: (Central Nara / Japanese & Chinese tea café); Comfort with excellent Japanese/Chinese tea in a classic machiya traditional house

<Overview>: Shinju-an specializes in Japanese and Chinese tea. The owner collects a number of unique and aromatic tea leaves from famous tea producing areas around Japan. There are always about 50 kinds of tea leaves for you to select from. The water temperature and time of steeping the leaf is essential to enjoy the best aroma and taste of the tea. Use a little set of provided tea utensils and try to make the best tasting tea for yourself!

<Recommended Menus>: Cake & tea set (Changed monthly): from 650 yen; Extra fine Yamato (Nara) tea: 650 yen; Ban-cha, Hoji-cha, black tea: from 500 yen; Lunch set (beef stew with rice, salad, dessert, tea): 850 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-27-3083; In Nara-machi area, across from the Naramachi Museum; Open: 11:00-17:00 (L.O.: 16:30); Closed: Sun. & holiday; http://homepage3.nifty.com/shinjyuan/

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Falafel Garden: (Central Nara / Israeli café & restaurant); World’s first healthy fast food from Israel!

<Overview>: Falafel is a traditional Israeli food. Using only vegetable (no meat, fish, milk, egg) and mostly organic ingredients, Falafel Garden offers delicious and healthy food for everyone, even vegans and people with food allergies. Falafel contains falafel balls (deep-fried chick pea balls flavored with various spices) and an abundance of fresh vegetables in thin pita bread. Other recommendations are humus (raw chick pea paste) and babaganush (paste of grilled eggplant and spices). This is the only place you can enjoy authentic and healthy Israel.

<Recommended Menus>: Falafel (M): 850 yen; Chicken kebab: 980 yen; Humus: 860 yen; Mix plate (falafel balls, pita bread, humus, babaganush, 2 kinds of salad): 1,980 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-2722; In the Higashimuki Shopping Arcade, on the east side (across from McDonalds); Open everyday: 11:00-20:00; http://www.falafelgarden.com

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Obana: (Central Nara / Traditional Japanese); Taste Nara’s seasonal and fresh vegetables in traditional Japanese cuisine

<Overview>: Located in the Hotel Sun Route Nara, Obana offers traditional Japanese fine cuisine using seasonal vegetables and ingredients from Nara. The menu changes monthly. Obana lunch sets are very popular for their price and of course, tasty dishes. Try their special buffet-style breakfast including the cha-gayu (rice porridge cooked with Japanese tea) and other Japanese dishes, and the kaiseki course for dinner. The restaurant is of course open for visitors too. Visit Obana and try the tastes of the season.

<Recommended Menus>: Buffet-style (breakfast): 1,260 yen; Obana set (lunch): 2,800 yen; Other lunch menus: from 1,800 yen; Kaiseki course (dinner): from 5,000 yen

<Shop Data>: On the southeast of Sarusawa Pond, about 200 meters on the left; Open: 7:00-9:30,11:30-14:00,17:30-20:00; Tel: 0742-22-2108; http://www.sunroute-nara.co.jp/index.html

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Guesthouse and Bar Yougendo: (Oji area/Japanese style guest house & dining bar); A High-standard Budget Accommodation and fine meals

<Overview>: Surprisingly the best place to eat and drink is not in Nara city!Our 103 year old converted storehouse bar is famous all over Japan.Mediterranean bar foods, fine cocktails, Guiness Draught,Sapporo beer and the only bar in Nara to have EIDELPILS PILSNER BEER.

<Recommended menu>: Hand made Humus dip 600 yen, Lamb steak 1000 yen, cous cous 700 yen and many more foods.; Drinks from 500 yen served inside or out on our garden beer terrace!

<General Information>: Tel: 0745-32-0514; 13-25 Oji-cho Kudo 2 Cho-me, Kitakatsuragi, Nara 1 min from JR OJI station (4 stations from JR Nara on the Yamatoji line - 15 mins); Open:18:00-23:30 (food 22:30 LO, Drink 23:30 LO) / Closed: Mon. / *WE ARE A NO SMOKING BAR! (smoking area outside); *WE ARE A NO SMOKING BAR! (smoking area outside); http://www.yougendo.com/

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Tori Tamura: (Central Nara / Yakitori skewered grilled chicken); Enjoy Sizzling Hot and Tasty Yakitori, “Japanese-style BBQ Chicken Kebabs”

<Overview>: Yakitori is a popular Japanese dish. Chicken pieces are skewered on a stick and roasted with a sweet soy sauce-based sauce or salt. From a counter seat, you will enjoy watching up-close how the chefs quickly and skillfully cook your yakitori. You can order just one skewer of yakitori (from 120 yen) or try the chef’s selection set menu (from 2,500 yen) which includes the best of everything! Salad, drinks and other a la carte dishes from the menu are also worth trying.

<Recommended Menus>: You can order just one skewer of yakitori (from 120 yen) or try the set menu (from 2,500 yen) which includes the best of everything and one drink!

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-5665; A 3-min. walk to the northeast of JR Nara Sta., on the east side of the street; Open: 11:30-14:30 (L.O. 14:00), 17:00-24:00 (L.O. 23:00); Closed: irregularly

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Shima-Shima: (Central Nara / Café & lunch); Lunch and café time with the warm hospitality of the owner and staffs

<Overview>: Shima-Shima is a comfortable café located on the 2nd floor of the building across from Nara City Tourist Center that offers the warm hospitality of the owner, Ms. Shimase, and her staff. The bright interior utilizes natural sunlight and is decorated with Ms. Shimase’s hand-made natural ivy baskets and other hand-made crafts. The daily or weekly lunch set is highly recommended (800 yen) and includes a main dish, two side dishes, soup and rice. Here you can experience authentic and tasty home dishes cooked by a Japanese mother. Shima-Shima’s original home-made cakes and parfaits are also popular.

<Recommended Menus>: This week’s lunch set: 800 yen; Today’s lunch set: 800 yen; *Coffee, tea or yuzu (Japanese citrus) tea will be added for extra 100 yen.; Original parfaits: from 600 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-8805; On the south side of Sanjo, across from Nara City Tourist Center; Open: 10:00-17:00 (lunch time: 11:00-14:30; L.O.: 16:30); Closed: Sat. & Sun.; http://www.falafelgarden.com

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Hiyori: (Central Nara /Restaurant); Original hearty cuisine using full of Mother nature blessing

<Overview>: The main feature of Hiyori’s dishes is vegetables. However, Hiyori’s vegetables go far beyond your expectation. Everyone who has experienced Hiyori’s vegetable dishes can’t help being amazed with the deep, rich taste of vegetables which were grown in their local and exclusive farm. In addition to the vegetables, the owner traveled around Japan and has strictly selected the finest quality of meat and fish. From a full volume course menu to à la carte menus (vegetables, meat, fish, etc.), you can decide how you will enjoy Hiyori.

<Recommended Menus>: Yamato-yasai (Nara’s local vegetables) Kaiseki course Kakashi: 3,675 yen (about 7 vegetable dishes with 1 main: river fish/chicken/shrimp) Mogura: 4,305 yen (about 7 vegetable dishes with 2 mains: river fish/chicken/shrimp) Ubutuchi: 8,400 yen (about 7 vegetable dishes, Japanese beef fillet steak with 1 main: river fish/chicken/shrimp); Lunch Yasai-biyori: 1,575 yen (about 7 vegetable dishes, rice, miso soup, pickles, dessert) Hidamari: 2,625 yen (several vegetable dishes, grilled river fish, rice, miso soup, pickles, dessert)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-1470; A 15-min. walk from JR or Kintetsu Nara Sta., northwest of Gango-ji Temple; Open:11:30-14:30 (L.O.: 14:00), 17:00-22:00 (L.O.: 21:00); Closed: Tues.; http://www.narakko.com/hiyori/

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3rd place café: (Central Nara / Café); Hearty & tasty original muffins by the gourmet owner

<Overview>: Going up a narrow, steep stairs to the 3rd floor of the building, there is a cozy café always filled with a scent of freshly baked muffins. At 3rd place café, all you will enjoy is owner’s home-made muffins, from basics (blueberry, raspberry, banana) to Nara’s unique using Nara’s green tea, and seasonal fruits (fig, mango, pear for summer). The owner herself is a gourmet who works as a food writer and coordinator as well. Take one or more muffins from 3rd place café with hearty taste and the owner’s affection to Nara, inside or outside of the café.

<Recommended Menus>: Muffins: from 250 yen; Muffin and drink set: 600-700 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-1323; 3F of Fukuda Bldg., on the west side of Yasuragino-michi St., about 20 meters to the north from Nara City Tourist Center; Open:11:00-19:00 (L.O.: 18:30); Closed:irregularly; http://nori-mono.net/3pc.html

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Yume-Kaze Plaza: (Central Nara/ Dining and shopping complex facility); Nara’s first dining and shopping complex opened near Nara Park

<Overview>: Yume-Kaze Plaza is a newly constructed large scale shopping and dining complex site which opened this year near Todai-ji Temple. There are 12 shops and restaurants and each one has their own unique attraction and specialty (kudzu starch dishes of Yoshino, Kakinoha sushi, Japanese sweets, Japanese noodles SOBA, hand-woven hemp products, Nara’s local sake, local fresh vegetables and fruits, okonomi-yaki, tako-yaki, railroad diorama buffet, Italian restaurant, café and more!). Visit Yume-Kaze Plaza and enjoy your Nara stay even more.

<Shops>: Shunka Manyo Tenpyoan (Japanese sweets and café), Warabe Yorokobi An (home made Japanese noodles SOBA), Yoshino Honkudzu Kurokawa Honke (new and traditional Japanese confections & café dining), Shimazu (seasonal Japanese cuisine), Yamato café BAN INOUE (Japanese hemp products/crafts and café), Silk Road (railroad diorama/buffet/bar), Monzen Ichiba (Nara’s fresh vegetables, fruits and products), Nara Mahoroba Daibutsu Purin Honpo (caramel custard and sweets), Izasa (traditional Nara sushi & restaurant), Ristorante i-lunga (Italian cuisine restaurant), Yumefusha (café & terrace), Naraya (Nara’s specialties & souvenirs), Ezuya (Nara character goods)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-25-0870; Across from the Nara National Museum; Open everyday: 9:30-22:00 (opening hour and closing day is different at each shop); http://www.yume-kaze.com/

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Kofujin: (Central Nara / Yakiniku Japanese Barbeque); Best quality Japanese beef in a tranquil atmosphere

<Overview>: All of Kofujin’s beef, such as Saga beef, is top quality Japanese beef. Certainly as fine and as famous as Kobe beef. Recommended at Kofujin is the Yakiniku set. Not only the quality but the quantity will satisfy your appetite: 5 kinds of beef (about 200g), vegetable, soup, salad, rice, and more. Located on high up on the 5th floor, you are separated from the noise of city and can enjoy your meal in a tranquil atmosphere. Visit Kofujin and enjoy both fine quality beef and relaxing time.

<Recommended Menus>: Yakiniku set: 3,500 yen (8 kinds including beef, vegetable, salad, soup, rice); Special yakiniku set: 4,500 yen (8 kinds including beef, vegetable, salad, soup, rice); Special steak set: 5,500 yen (Steak and 9 kinds including beef, vegetable, salad, soup, rice); Other a la carte menus and desserts are also available.

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-5665; 5F of Rafine Toyo Bldg., on the north side of a narrow lane connecting Higashimuki Shopping Arcade and Konishi St.; Open: 17:00-24:00; Closed: Tues.

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Monsieur pepé: (Central Nara/ French restaurant & café); Discover the warm hospitality and cooking excellence of the owner-chef

<Overview>: Monsieur Pepe’s owner and chef used to be a piano teacher. One day she decided to change her career and took a course at the famous Le Cordon Bleu cooking school in Kobe. The mainly southern French dishes are full of her wholesome cooking style. The best recommendation is the Special Soup Lunch set, which includes assorted hors d'oeuvre, stewed vegetable soup, dessert and a drink. Monsieur Pepe’s blueberry tart is also very popular (only 8 available a day!).

<Recommended Menus>: Special soup lunch set: 1,680 yen; Blueberry tart set: 1,200 yen; Duck pastrami pasta: 1,200 yen; Glass wine: 500 yen; Hot wine: 700 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-7709; Across from Nara National Museum; Open: 11:00-18:00 (reservations required for dinner time); Closed: Mon; http://www.monsieur-pepe.jp/

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Jyu Jyu: (Central Nara/ original healthy foods & bar); A healthy and hearty time in the backstreets of historical Nara

<Overview>: Don’t miss finding this cozy restaurant in the narrow backstreets of Nara. Jyu Jyu is like a hideout, just for you. The owner wishes “to provide a gentle time for the body and heart”. Jyu Jyu’s menu is meat-free. All the dishes are original and full of vegetables, seafood and the owner’s creative ideas. Naturally, JyuJyu is popular with visitors to Nara. In addition to the regular menu, daily specials are available (ask the owner what they have on the day!).

<Recommended Menus>: Chijimi (Korean pancake with vegetables & seafood): 730 yen; Fresh tofu with relish: 470 yen; Pizza with avocado and anchovy: 780 yen; Beer: from 600 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-27-6121; Across from Nara National Museum; Open: 17:00-23:00; Closed: Mon., 1st & 3rd Tues.; www.jyujyunara.com

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Yobareya: (Central Nara/ Oden hot-pot); Try taste of Japanese home dish, Oden!

<Overview>: Oden is a popular Japanese hot-pot dish. Vegetables, meat and seafood are cooked in a large pan with Japanese broth – flavored with sea kelp and dried bonito flakes. Every locality has its special oden taste. Yobareya offers Nara style oden with its own unique broth flavor and ingredients. There are also several kinds of local Nara sake which the shop manager has carefully selected for customers. Enjoy the perfect combination of hot steaming oden and sake!

<Recommended Menus>: Oden: from 200 yen, white radish: 250 yen, potato: 400 yen, meat-stuffed cabbage: 450; Roast beef of Nara’s local beef marinated in sake: 1,890 yen; Nara’s local sake: from 400 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-5575; In the Mochiidono Shopping Arcade, about 400 meters from the north entrance on the left side; Open: 17:00-23:00; Closed: Wed.

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Fusion Food IDEA JR Nara shop: (Central Nara/ Dining & bar); Comfortable dining & bar with stylish lighting and interior

<Overview>: As the name of the restaurant suggests, I DE A comes from the English word “idea”, welcomes customers with a bunch of big and small ideas. For example, coasters set at women’s places have a special effect and reflect light from the bottom to make a romantic atmosphere. With IDEA’s unique approach and cooking techniques, regular ingredients are transformed into tasty. They also have their own restaurant rules. Sculling drinks and being rowdy is not allowed (if you do, you have to leave!). It may sound very strict but this is so that everybody can have a comfortable time at IDEA.

<Recommended Menus>: IDEA salad: 520 yen (full volume!); Tacos with chorizo (spicy Spanish sausage): 480 yen; IDEA original pasta with thick broth: 680 yen; Drinks: from 260 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-25-0888; One minute walk from JR Nara Sta., walk along Sanjo St., on the right side, 3F of F & F Square Bldg.; Open everyday: 17:00-24:00 (L.O. 23:00); http://r.gnavi.co.jp/c601800/

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Hiikiya Nara: (Central Nara/ Japanese style dining bar); Enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes!

<Overview>: Hiikiya is a popular Japanese style dining bar conveniently located just in front of JR Nara Station. You can watch how the chefs cook from the counter seats. Hiikiya offers a wide range of Japanese dishes: robata-yaki (grilled with hearth fire), teppan-yaki (grilled on an iron plate), sushi, deep-fried, oden hot-pot, and many more. In winter, the hot-pot menu is recommended.

<Recommended Menus>: Yakitori skewered chicken (2 pieces): from 294 yen; Small portion of hot-pot: 619 yen; Assorted sushi(5 pieces): 619 yen; Draft beer: 525 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-3465; In front of JR Nara Station; Open: everyday: weekdays:17:00-23:00 (L.O. 22:30), from 16:30 on Sat., Sun., holidays

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The Wembley Crown: (Central Nara/English pub); More than 30 kinds of beers from all over the world!

<Overview>: Come to The Wembley Crown and relax in Nara’s English country-style pub. Sport events such as soccer, tennis, and rugby are broadcast on the large size screen. You can enjoy more than 30 kinds of world beers as well as English home-style dishes. Find your favorite beer or try a variety of new brews while enjoying your visit to Nara.

<Recommended menu>: Draft beer (Guiness): 800 yen; Japanese local beer “YONAYONA ALE”: 600 yen; English tea: 300 yen; Thursday is Ladies Day!

<General Information>: Tel: 0742-26-7741; 2F of Nishimura Bldg., a 3-min. walk from the north entrance of Mochiidono Center Arcade, on the east side; Open:17:00-23:00; Closed:Mon; http://wembleycrown.com

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Floresta: (Central Nara/ organic doughnuts & Café); Delicious organic doughnuts created from specially selected ingredients

<Overview>: Floresta is a doughnut shop which started with the owners’ wish to “provide safe and delicious doughnuts for everyone.” They use specially selected ingredients only without food additives and chemicals. Their original doughnuts are always freshly cooked - the outside is crispy and the inside is very soft. Perfect for a tea break inside or takeout! Floresta’s doughnuts are full of the natural taste of fine ingredients and the sincere wishes of the staff to enjoy them.

<Recommended Menus>: Nature: 120 yen; Sugar: 120 yen; Chocolate: 140 yen; Drink set: 350 yen (with coffee/tea/milk)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-7397; On the north side of a narrow street connecting Higashimuki Shopping Arcade and Konishi Sakura St., 1-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta; Open: 10:00-19:00 (closed when all doughnuts are sold out); Closed: irregularly twice a year; http://www.floresta.jp/

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Café & Gallery Tachibana: (Central Nara/ Café & Gallery); Space to enjoy a tea break and view fine Japanese ceramics

<Overview>: Tachibana’s original selection of ceramics includes classical forms as well as unique ceramic works by up-and-coming artists. During your Nara exploration, stop by Tachibana and enjoy a cup of coffee, tea or fine Japanese green tea with sweets, while chatting with the owner. Exhibitions are occasionally held in the gallery upstairs.

<Recommended Menus>: Nara-machi blend coffee: 400 yen; Tea: from 550 yen (served in pot); Sencha or maccha green tea: 550 yen; Sweets: from 330 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-31-6439; About 20 meters to the east of the street between Mochiidono and Shimomikado Shopping Center, on the right side; Open: 10:00-18:00; Closed: Wed; http://www.eonet.ne.jp/~etachibana/

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Icho in Hotel Nikko Nara: (Central Nara/ teppan-yaki grill cuisine); Superb teppan-yaki cuisine in a luxurious atmosphere

<Overview>: There are two large counter tables (6 seats each) in front of the iron plate where Icho’s chef cooks your meal. At Icho, they don’t use rich flavored sauce but instead offer fine pepper, salt, grated wasabi (hot horse radish) and miso (fermented salty soy beans paste) to enhance the taste of the natural flavor of the food. Their seasonal special course is recommended.

<Recommended Menus>: Lunch: beef fillet steak set: 2,000 yen; Japanese black beef bento lunch box: 3,000 yen; Courses: from 5,000 yen; Dinner: courses: from 8,000 yen; Drinks: from 750 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-35-5819; Directly connected to the west exit of JR Nara Sta.; Open: everyday: 11:30-14:30, 17:30-22:00 (L.O. 21:30); http://www.nikkonara.jp/

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Tou no Chaya: (Central Nara/ Cha-gayu Japanese tea porridge); Enjoy Nara’s specialty, Cha-gayu in historical setting

<Overview>: Located close to the five-story pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple, you can fully enjoy Nara’s traditional atmosphere and taste at Tou no Chaya. It was the first restaurant in Nara to offer Cha-gayu Japanese tea porridge about 40 years ago. Cha-ga-yu is very simple rice porridge cooked with fine Japanese tea. Tou no Chaya’s original souvenirs are also available (accessories, take-away instant Cha-gayu, etc.).

<Recommended Menus>: Cha-gayu lunch box: 3,150 yen (11:30-16:00); Cha-gayu kaiseki courses: lunch: from 6,000 yen; dinner: from 8,000 yen; Cha-gayu for take-out: 500 yen (instant), 900 yen (recipe and a set of ingredients)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-4348; About 50 meters to the east from the five-story pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple; Open: everyday: 11:30-21:00; Closed:Tues.

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Kama-meshi Shizuka: (Central Nara/ Kama-meshi rice); Nara 7-topping Kama-meshi is must-try

<Overview>: Shizuka has offered Kama-meshi, a traditional Japanese rice dish since 1959. An individual portion of rice is cooked in a small iron pot with a variety of toppings. The Nara 7-topping Kama-meshi with shrimp, conger eel, chicken, burdock, etc. is highly recommended. Special seasonal Kama-meshi menus are also available.

<Recommended Menus>: Nara 7-topping Kama-meshi: 1155 yen; Shizuka set: 2,310 yen (Nara 7 kinds Kama-meshi, appetizer, side dish, miso soup, pickles, fruit)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-27-8030; Across from the Nara National Museum; Open: 11:00-20:00; Closed: Tues; http://www.kamameshi-shizuka.jp/

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apa apa cafe: (Central Nara/ Café & bar); Stay comfortably with nice food & drinks

<Overview>: The entrance of apa apa café faces a very narrow street (look for a black motor bike!). You’ll find a cozy, relaxing space where you can feel comfortably at home. At lunch time, their large-portioned home-made bagel lunch set will satisfy you (with bagel of the day, salad, soup, fried potato, plus a drink). Check their wide ranging drink menu too!

<Recommended Menus>: Home-made bagle lunch set (12:00-15:00): 900 yen; Lunch of the day (12:00-15:00): 800 yen; Pizza, paste, rice dishes, etc.: from 700 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-3408; 2F of Fujimoto Bldg., to the northwest of Tsubai Elementary School; Open: 12:00-24:00; Closed: irregularly; http://www.apaapacafe.com

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Restaurant Kasuga: (Central Nara / Traditional Japanese); Taste Kasuga’s original dishes using local Nara beef and chicken

<Overview>: Restaurant Kasuga is located in the Kasuga Hotel. Their dishes are quite simple, yet allow you to enjoy the real taste of natural ingredients in a traditional Japanese way. Many of their dishes are cooked with local Nara produce. One of the most popular and highly recommended set meals is the Nara-zen set which is full of the taste of Nara: local Yamato chicken, Kakinoha sushi (a piece of vinegar rice with a fillet of mackerel wrapped in a persimmon leaf), Yamato green tea noodle, and much more.

<Recommended Menus>: Nara-zen set: 2,100 yen; Manyo set (grilled Yamato beef and more): 2,100 yen; Manyo bento set: 2,100 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-4031; 100-meters to the east of Kintetsu Nara Sta. (on the right side); Open: 11:00-14:00, 17:00-21:00; Closed: irregularly; http://www.kasuga-hotel.co.jp/

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Kagariya in Hotel Asyl Nara: (Central Nara/original Japanese cuisine); Original Japanese dishes using full of Nara ingredients

<Overview>: Kagariya specializes in original Japanese dishes using local Nara ingredients. The traditional Japanese style interior has a warm atmosphere. From reasonable, yet satisfying, lunch menus using Nara’s local chicken to more authentic course menus cooked by their chef with more than 30 years experience, Kagariya offers a wide range of choices. For dinner, course menus are recommended in order to enjoy each dish slowly and tastefully. Once you are here, you can’t leave Nara without visiting Kagariya at least once for an unforgettable dining experience in the ancient capital.

<Recommended menus>: Rice bowl topped with teriyaki Yamato local chicken (lunch): 1,000 yen; Kama-meshi gozen (lunch): 1,500 yen; Kagariya gozen (lunch): 2,500 yen; Chef’s recommended kaiseki course: Uneme: 4,000 yen (10 dishes), Kagaribi: 5,500 yen (11 dishes)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-2577; A 5-min. walk to the west from Kintetsu Nara Sta., or a 5-min. walk to the north from JR Nara Sta.; Open: 11:00-14:00,17:30-23:00; http://www.worldheritage.co.jp/kagariya/index.html

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Shizuka-tei: (Yoshino area/ Kuzu dishes, kakinoha sushi, seasonal local cuisine); Experience exquisite seasonal flavours in a hidden spot in Yoshino

<Overview>: Yoshino is famous for being one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. However, the appeal of Yoshino is not only cherry blossoms in spring. At Shizuka-tei, you can enjoy tasteful dishes which reflect the seasonal beauty of Yoshino. In summer, natural grown ayu (sweet fish) or iwana (mountain trout) are must-try. What is more, udon noodles in thick kuzu (arrowroot starch) broth, kakinoha sushi (pieces of sushi rice with salted mackerel wrapped in a persimmon leaf) are specialties of Yoshino. If you are lucky to get a seat on the veranda, it will be an unforgettable day for you as you enjoy a fine meal and a grand view of Yoshino.

<Recommended menus>: Kuzu udon noodle and tempura set: 1,200 yen; Kakinoha sushi (7 pieces): 1,050 yen; Other seasonal dishes are available

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0746-32-3157; Across from Katte Shrine; 952 Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun; Open: 9:00-18:00 (open from 8:00 on Sat. & Sun.); To get to Yoshino, see the access information on pg 12.

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Fujin: (Central Nara / Japanese style bar); Enjoy traditional ‘ochazuke’ in our Japanese style bar

<Overview>: Ochazuke is one of the most popular dishes with Japanese people. Japanese tea or tasty broth is poured over hot rice topped with seasonings. It has been a longtime favorite with people - a recipe for ochazuke appears in a book written in the early Edo period (1600-1868). You can choose from15 kinds of toppings for our special ‘dashi chazuke’. What is more, Fujin offers more than 100 different kinds of dishes on their Japanese bar-style menu, including reasonable lunch sets.

<Recommended Menus>: Fujin’s special broth chazuke: from 500 yen; Daily lunch set: 800 yen; Tompei-yaki (egg roll with pork): 580 yen; 3 kinds of Sashimi: 980 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-1008; 2F of Asakawa Harvest Bldg., on the east side of the north entrance of Higashimuki Shopping Arcade; Open everyday: 11:00-15:00, 17:00-24:00 (closed Mon. lunch time)

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Fusui: (Central Nara / Japanese Bar & Teppan-yaki grill dishes); Meat, seafood, vegetables, and more. Enjoy a wide range of food grilled on an iron plate.

<Overview>: At Fusui from more than 70 kinds of dishes to choose from – take your time! Fusui offers a wide range of teppan-yaki (grilled food on an iron plate) using fresh seasonal ingredients as well as their original a la carte menu. They also serve over 100 different kinds of beverages including beer, wine, shochu (distilled Japanese vodka), local Nara sake, cocktails, soft drinks, and much more! Recommended is Fusui’s ‘grilled chicken meat balls with nankotsu (gristle)’.

<Recommended Menus>: Grilled chicken meat balls with gristle (Ontama tsukune teppan-yaki): 850 yen; Home-made fresh tofu: 580 yen; Seasonal fish sashimi: from 700 yen (3 kinds); Course menu: from 2,500 yen (7 dishes)

<Shop Data>: 2F of Manzoku-kan Bldg., a 3-min. walk from JR Nara Sta. to the east along Sanjo Street; the building is on your left; Open everyday: 11:30-14:00 (L.O.), 17:00-23:00 (L.O.); Tel: 0742-20-6628

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SHIMURA: (Horyu-ji Area/Traditional Japanese); Try Shimura’s famous plum flavored udon noodles

<Overview>: Shimura offers unique udon dishes (thick noodles made from flour). The plum flavored or special salt flavored udon are famous in the area. The plum flavored udon kneaded with fresh plum fruit and shiso (perilla Japanese basil) are especially recommended! These udon noodles go well with Kakinoha sushi, one of Nara’s specialties - a piece of sushi topped with vinegared fish and wrapped in a persimmon leaf. Other large rice bowl dishes and set meals are available too.

<Recommended Dishes>: Plum flavored udon with Kakinoha sushi: 735 yen; Salt flavored udon with Kakinoha sushi: 890 yen; Large rice bowl dishes: from 600 yen; Bento sets: from 780 yen

<Shop Data>: On the east side of the approach to Horyu-ji Temple; Open everyday: 10:00-17:00; Tel: 0745-75-3202

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Café Wakakusa: (Central Nara/Cafe); Take a break in Wakakusa café during your visit to Nara

<Overview>: Wakakusa is a bright, fresh green color. As the name suggests, Café Wakakusa is filled with this color and also the owner’s favorite music. The owner and his wife welcome you with smiles. Their home-made crepe uses special butter, cheese and/or chocolate. Their original soft drinks using Japanese tea are definitely worth trying. Wakakusa is open until 22:00 and free Internet access is available (bring your laptop!).

<Recommended Menus>: Draft beer (Guinness & Yebisu): 400yen; Home-made crepes: from 350yen; Espresso: 250yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-95-4554; 1-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta.; on the east side of Higashimuki Kita Shopping Street; Open: 10:00-22:00; Closed: irregularly; http://www.cafewakakusa.com

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Yumeichi Chaya: (Asuka area/ Restaurant, café, local souvenirs); Try the taste of the Nara period in a slow and comfortable atmosphere

<Overview>: Yumeichi Chaya is located right next to the Ishi-butai Ancient Tomb. Here you can try unique dishes made from a special rice called Kodai-mai, a type of ancient rice which is still grown in Asuka today. In the clear air of Asuka, the fresh seasonal vegetables used in the dishes taste even better. Kodai-mai Gozen sets (availability is limited) and Kuro-mai (black) rice and curry lunch sets are very popular and recommended. When the weather is nice, take a Shotoku bento lunch box or some Kodai-mai rice balls outside and have a picnic! Their café menu with desserts is also recommended for taking a short break in Asuka.

<Recommended Menus>: Kodai-mai Gozen Set: 1,050 yen; Curry and kuro-mai black rice: 840 yen; Shotoku bento lunch: 840 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0774-54-9450; Just west of the Ishibutai Park; 154-3 Shimasho, Asuka-mura, Takaichi-gun; Open: 11:00-16:00 (souvenir shop on the first floor is open from 10:00; open until 17:00 on Sat. & Sun.); Closed: end and beginning of the year; http://www5.kcn.ne.jp/~yume-ask/yumechaya.htm; To get to Asuka, see the access information on pg 12.

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Japanese Style Café Awogaki: (Central Nara/ Café); Try Awogaki’s original sweets of Nara

<Overview>: Located in the Nara Nagomi-kan, a souvenir shop, you can enjoy original sweets by Awogaki’s experienced chef. One of the popular menus is Kaki (persimmon) cake using additive-free dried persimmons and persimmon liquor. Maccha rolled cake made from fine quality Nara maccha green tea and red beans are also recommended. Many other meal and drink menus are available as well.

<Recommended Menus>: Maccha (green tea) rolled cake: 320 yen; Kaki (persimmon) cake: 300 yen; Meals: from 1,300 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-21-7530; A 3-min. walk to the south of the Ichino Torii (first shrine gate) of the Kasuga Grand Shrine, on the left side; Open: 10:00-19:00 (Awogaki is open the same hours); http://www.worldheritage.co.jp/nagomi/index.html

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