Nose ARATA

Kaiseki dining is always linked to the land that produces its ingredients, and the surroundings of this idyllic rural restaurant emphasize that ethos beautifully. Nestled in the countryside — 1 hour to the east of Kyoto and north of Osaka — Nose ARATA is surrounded by mountain peaks and terraced rice fields. With innovative cooking techniques that still pay homage to storied culinary tradition, Nose's Japanese cuisine draws upon the bounty of this region. Seasonal delicacies are procured from the surrounding villages, such as game from local hunters—the restaurant even offers bear meat in winter. Produce naturally farmed in the pure water and air of the Nose area also bursts with nutrition and flavor, and are key to the popularity of the numerous vegan and vegetarian options offered at Nose ARATA. The restaurant's links with the local environment and community of producers means that every meal tells a story of the surrounding region —their seasonal omakase course meals a 10-chapter homage to the place and its people. To maintain the inherent intimacy of this experience, Nose ARATA only accepts four groups of diners per day: two for lunch, and two for dinner. Reservations are therefore essential. English- and French-speaking staff are available to assist diners.