A visit to Kanazawa demands at least one experience of kaiseki, Japan’s classical cuisine. At the acclaimed restaurant Zeniya there’s no fixed menu — its exquisite offerings change daily according to availability at the market and the creative whims of the chef. Choose between the tatami-floored, bamboo-screened private dining rooms or the convivial counter seating, and enjoy an extravaganza of regional delicacies: sesame tofu, Noto beef, Ishikawa sake, sea bream and mountain vegetables — with impeccable service from waiters in kimonos.

Zeniya is an authentic Japanese street food establishment located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa. Tucked away in a quiet corner of a bustling street, this restaurant exudes a serene atmosphere with its traditional architecture adorned with hanging scrolls and flowers. It offers a variety of dishes prepared by skilled chefs, and guests have the option to dine in the elegant tatami rooms or sit at the counter to witness the artistry of the culinary process up close.

Zeniya received its two stars from the fresh ingredients and wonderful services, but the lovely traditional interior, which proves the long history of this ryotei, most certainly helped. The slow-simmered awabi (abalone) is highly recommended and was passed down from the founder back in the Edo Period (1603-1868). In spite of its long history, the owner always tries to fuse history with innovative ideas.

Rivaling Tokyo on a much smaller scale, Kanazawa has many wonderful restaurants, making it nearly impossible to narrow it down to just one. That being said, Zeniya offers a superlative kappo (a multicourse meal served at a small counter) experience. With just eight seats, diners are able to watch and interact with chef Shin Takagi as he creates his seasonal kaiseki (many small, beautiful courses) magic.

We always prepare the best ingredients and prepare the best menu for each customer.” said owner-chef. While focusing on the basics of Japanese cuisine, in addition to the idea of taking a step outside, it is like weaving old and new dishes with wonderful ingredients from the Sea of Japan and Kanazawa's culture. We will provide you with a time that you cannot experience anywhere else.

Chef Shinichiro Takagi is highly regarded in Japan, although it wasn't him overseeing our meal but his brother. Their mother was one of the staff, as was the chef's wife, so it's clear that the passion for food runs in the family. The room is very simple with around seven seats facing the open kitchen where the preparation and grilling takes place.

Far from Tokyo in Kanazawa is an English-speaking celebrity chef who draws famous chefs from around the world to taste his two-star cuisine and engage in fascinating conversation. Your imagination flows as you stroll the streets of the charming former samurai town to Zeniya to enjoy the highly perso ...

Nihon Ryori Zeniya (“Japanese Cuisine Zeniya”) is one of the oldest ryotei in Kanazawa. If you can, taste their seasonal kanburi, winter yellowtail. The fish is a specialty of the Hokuriku region and is never not delicious.