As locals of Japan, we’re excited to share the unique experience of kaiseki with you. This Japanese culinary tradition is a feast for all senses, showcasing the best of Japan’s seasonal ingredients, culinary techniques, and aesthetic traditions. Kaiseki is more than just a simple course meal; it’s a unique dining experience that engages all your senses and is highly regarded even among locals.
What is Kaiseki?
Kaiseki is a multi-course meal that combines both visual and culinary artistry. Interestingly, there are two different ways to write “kaiseki” in Japanese: 懐石料理 and 会席料理. (You’ll notice that there is a difference in the first two Japanese kanji characters)
While both are pronounced “kaiseki ryori,” they have subtle differences in meaning.
懐石料理: A light multi-course meal served before tea ceremonies, also known as cha-kaiseki.
Its purpose is to stave off hunger without overwhelming the palate, focusing on simplicity and subtle flavors that won’t interfere with the taste of the tea.
会席料理: A multi-course, Japanese haute cuisine meal enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
More elaborate and typically enjoyed during social gatherings, banquets or for special occasions, you’ll typically experience this type of kaiseki ryori at a restaurant. You can expect dishes that showcase seasonal flavors and are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
Fun Fact: While you are served a number of dishes, you’ll typically finish off the meal with rice, soup, and dessert. This ensures that guests can savor and enjoy all the main dishes, without becoming full with rice and soup!
What to expect at the kaiseki?
When dining at a kaiseki restaurant in Japan, you’ll discover a variety of styles to enjoy. Since there are no strict rules governing the structure of a kaiseki meal, you can experience different interpretations wherever you go. Traditional kaiseki ryori typically showcases seasonal ingredients that encompass a wide range of flavors, including seafood, meat, seasonal vegetables, rice, soup, and more.
You also have the option to choose specific types of kaiseki ryori. Below are a few types that you can enjoy:
Sushi Kaiseki
In this style, the main dish features an array of edomae-style nigiri sushi. It is often accompanied by several side dishes, a fried item, sashimi, soup, dessert, and more.
Vegetarian Kaiseki
This multi-course meal highlights ingredients like tofu and yuba (a delicacy, this is the delicate layer formed on top of soy milk and tofu). Your meal may include yuba sashimi, grilled dishes featuring yuba or tofu, simmered dishes, rice, and more.
Teppanyaki Kaiseki
Experience the luxury of premium wagyu beef, seafood, and seasonal vegetables grilled right on a teppan (hot iron plate). Typically, your grilled dishes will be served alongside small appetizers, a rice dish, soup, and dessert. This revision enhances clarity while preserving the original tone and content.
Best Kaiseki restaurants in Japan
To make a reservation at the best locally recommended kaiseki restaurants, click the links below!