Top 5 Places to Eat in Nara

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
Stunning view of Todaiji Temple in Nara, Japan, with sunlight casting warm tones over the historic architecture.
Alexandra Ortiz, Pexels

Nara's culinary scene offers a delightful journey through traditional Japanese flavors, with a focus on local specialties and quality ingredients, catering to visitors seeking an authentic and relaxed dining experience.

1. Kamameshi Shizuka

Cuisine: Kamameshi (Rice cooked in an iron pot)

Stepping into Kamameshi Shizuka, a cozy spot near Nara Park, one can immediately sense its long-standing tradition. The signature kamameshi arrives in its own iron pot, with the rice perfectly cooked with dashi broth and various toppings like shrimp, crab, or chicken. The flavors are delicate, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. It is a comforting and satisfying meal, and the scorched rice at the bottom adds a delightful texture.

Price: Lunch: 1,500 - 2,500 JPY / 10 - 17 USD; Dinner: 2,000 - 3,500 JPY / 14 - 24 USD

Getting There: The restaurant has a branch conveniently located at the entrance of Nara Park, directly opposite the Nara National Museum, making it easily walkable from major attractions.

2. Kakinohazushi Hompo Tanaka

Cuisine: Kakinoha-zushi (Persimmon leaf sushi)

For a taste of Nara's unique food culture, Kakinohazushi Hompo Tanaka is an excellent choice. This establishment specializes in kakinoha-zushi, where sushi rice and various fish (like mackerel or salmon) are pressed and wrapped in a persimmon leaf. The leaf imparts a subtle, earthy aroma to the sushi, a truly distinct flavor experience. It is a perfect light meal or snack, available for both eat-in and takeaway.

Price: From 1,000 JPY / 7 USD (for a small set or takeaway selection)

Getting There: There are multiple locations, including one easily accessible near Kintetsu-Nara Station. Many visitors choose to grab a selection for a picnic in Nara Park.

3. Tonkatsu Ganko Nara

Cuisine: Tonkatsu (Pork cutlet)

Tonkatsu Ganko Nara offers a satisfying and popular Japanese meal. The tonkatsu here is known for its crispy exterior and tender, juicy pork inside. It is typically served with shredded cabbage, miso soup, and rice, offering a hearty and well-rounded meal. The consistency and quality make it a reliable choice for a delicious and approachable Japanese dish.

Price: Lunch: 1,200 - 2,000 JPY / 8 - 14 USD; Dinner: 1,500 - 2,500 JPY / 10 - 17 USD

Getting There: Located just a few minutes' walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, it is very easy to access.

4. Sukiyaki to Gyumabushi Momoshiki

Cuisine: Sukiyaki and Gyumabushi

Sukiyaki to Gyumabushi Momoshiki presents a refined yet accessible dining experience focusing on Nara's delicious beef. One can enjoy sukiyaki, a hot pot dish where thinly sliced beef is cooked in a sweet soy sauce broth, or gyumabushi, a layered rice bowl with tender beef. The quality of the meat and the casual yet sophisticated atmosphere make it ideal for a special meal.

Price: Dinner: 5,000 - 8,000 JPY / 34 - 55 USD

Getting There: The restaurant is conveniently located within a 1-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.

5. Nakatanidou

Cuisine: Mochi (Japanese rice cake)

Nakatanidou provides a vibrant and entertaining culinary stop, famous for its lightning-fast mochi pounding. Watching the artisans rhythmically pound the glutinous rice into soft, warm mochi is an experience in itself. The freshly made yomogi mochi, filled with sweet red bean paste and coated in kinako (roasted soybean flour), is incredibly soft and delicious, a perfect sweet treat or quick bite while exploring the city.

Price: Around 150-200 JPY / 1-2 USD per mochi

Getting There: It is located on a main street in Nara, a short walk from Kintetsu Nara Station and Nara Park, making it easily accessible for a quick stop.

Check out our other pages on Nara

Things to Do icon Things to Do Getting There icon Getting There Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays