Okura Kyoto Okazaki Restaurant

The Serene Welcome of Nouvelle Epoque

Located in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Okazaki district, the Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei invites discerning diners to experience a culinary journey like no other at its signature restaurant, Nouvelle Époque. This refined dining destination emanates an air of sophisticated elegance, blending the rich traditions of French cuisine with the exquisite flavors and artistry of Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

Led by Executive Chef Ryoichi Yamashita, Nouvelle Époque is a celebration of the senses, where each dish is meticulously crafted to delight the palate and captivate the eye. Inspired by the “Father of Japanese French Cuisine,” the late Masakichi Ono, Chef Yamashita masterfully fuses the classic techniques of French gastronomy with the seasonal bounty of Kyoto’s local producers, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that reflects the ever-changing cycles of nature.

From the moment you step into the restaurant, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined sophistication. The elegant interiors, adorned with bamboo artworks and Asahiyaki pottery, pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto, while the large windows offer breathtaking views of the hotel’s tranquil gardens, allowing the changing seasons to be experienced through the plate.

The menu at Nouvelle Époque is a testament to the chef’s dedication and artistry. Seasonal ingredients, thoughtfully sourced from the surrounding Miyama region, take center stage, their flavors enhanced by the expert techniques and creative flair of the culinary team. Guests can embark on a gastronomic journey through the restaurant’s breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings, each course a masterful exploration of Kyoto’s unique culinary narrative.

Whether indulging in the decadent pie-wrapped grilled beef with foie gras or savoring the delicate balance of a Kyoto-inspired French dish, diners at Nouvelle Époque are transported to a realm where the boundaries between culinary tradition and innovation blur, creating an unparalleled dining experience that celebrates the very essence of Kyoto’s epicurean heritage.

Dinner Menus: Culinary Experiences Featuring Seasonal French-Inspired Cuisine

I was lucky to experience a special Christmas menu which added to the anticipation of the evening’s indulgences. I was greeted with a refreshing aperitif, perfectly setting the tone for the evening. The crisp and slightly tangy drink tantalized my taste buds and prepared me for the culinary journey ahead. Adding to the ambiance, a classical band played quiet and tasteful music in the background, their melodies creating a sophisticated and serene atmosphere.

The dinner experience begins with an aperitif, a palate-awakening prelude to the flavors to come. This is followed by an amuse-bouche, a delightful one-bite wonder that sets the tone for the culinary journey ahead.

The first course features the renowned Japanese sea eel, hamo, artfully presented with tomato, a delicate “dashi” jelly, and the refreshing touch of shiso. This harmonious interplay of flavors and textures immediately captivates my senses, leaving me eager for the next course.

Next, the blue lobster, or homard blue, takes center stage, accompanied by a rich fish soup and the piquant rouille sauce. The sweet, succulent lobster meat contrasts beautifully with the robust, aromatic broth, creating a symphony of maritime delights.

Then came the wagyu beef, a highlight of the evening. The beef was melt-in-your-mouth tender, served with an assortment of seasonal vegetables. The citrus sudachi added a refreshing twist, and the red wine sauce provided a rich, savory complement to the dish. It was a harmonious blend of flavors that left me thoroughly satisfied.

The meal then transitions to a refreshing melon gazpacho, a palate-cleansing interlude before the grand finale. The dessert course celebrates the essence of Christmas, with a beautifully crafted wreath-shaped arrangement of multiple flavored ice creams, including mango, coconut, and other seasonal fruits. This sweet and tropical conclusion to the dining experience is a true work of art.

To conclude this extraordinary dining experience, I enjoyed a selection of confectioneries paired with my choice of coffee or tea. Each sweet bite was meticulously crafted, and the warm beverage was a comforting end to an unforgettable evening.

Throughout the meal, the attentive service and the elegant, understated ambiance of Nouvelle Epoque enhance the overall experience, making it a true gastronomic highlight during my stay at Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei.

Step into the world of Nouvelle Époque and discover the whispers of luxury that echo through every bite, every presentation, and every moment spent in this remarkable sanctuary of gastronomy within the Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei.

Written by Amin Brodie

Photos by Valeryia Kalantayeva