n/naka

Best for:Once-in-a-lifetime California kaiseki Niki Nakayama's modern kaiseki restaurant of Michelin star and Chef's Table fame on Netflix is an indispensable part of the Japanese fine dining scene (as well as one of the city's most expensive restaurants). While the bloodsport-level effort to snag reservations might turn off many potential diners, a meal at n/naka is a multi-sensory experience that, for better or for worse, lives up to the hype. The 13-course seasonal seafood meal (with an additional option for vegetarians) delights and even soothes across every aspect, for a kaiseki experience that blends traditional Japanese coursing with a distinctly contemporary and feminine sensibility.

You’ll want to block off at least three hours of your day for a meal at n/naka, Los Angeles’s temple to the elaborate, multi-course traditional Japanese feast known as kaiseki. Chef-owner Niki Nakayama—one of the world’s few female kaiseki masters and a James Beard semifinalist—has created an intimate, authentically Japanese space for up to 26 guests to savor one of two 13-course tasting menus. In a serene setting of minimalist, hand-built furniture, the Japanese American chef serves up a parade of vibrantly colored, elaborately plated dishes, each made with hyper-local ingredients.

Thanks to Netflix and a slew of other filmmakers, N/Naka is consistently one of the most difficult reservations to secure in town. You might fail a few times (OK, you’ll fail a lot of times), but take a cue from Aaliyah and dust yourself off and try again—maybe you'll have more luck than us. Much like Hayato, it's been a few years since we've be able to book a table at this tiny, nondescript building in Palms, but in general expect stellar high-end service and a modern kaiseki menu involving 13 courses that change with the seasons.

The minimal wood-paneled interior replicates the style and tranquility of a Japanese ryokan in the middle of LA. The 13-course kaiseki menu, which is also available in a vegetarian version, is almost too beautiful to eat. Each dish is a love letter to the season.

They are n/naka, Providence, Somni, Sushi Ginza Onodera, Urasawa and Vespertine. San Francisco added two two-star restaurants, Campton Place and Saison, also for a total of six in that category. Commis in Oakland and Baumé in Palo Alto also have two stars.

Wrapped in neutral tones, this serenely understated room offers one of LA’s most warm and graceful dining experiences. Chef Niki Nakayama presents her interpretation of a modern Kaiseki meal, drawing upon Japanese tradition while at the same time following her own path, offering an intricate procession of seasonally inspired courses that show a uniquely Californian influence. The menu begins with a sip of house-infused sake and small bites, winding through delicate aromatic broths, sashimi courses and heartier fare like grilled fish accented with sansho pepper. The only dish to never leave the menu, an artful twirl of al dente spaghetti dressed with tender abalone, pickled cod roe and black truffle, exemplifies Chef Nakayama’s unconventional approach." - Michelin

3455 Overland Ave // Palms // $$$$ // qwoc-ownedOne of L.A’s only female sushi chefs, Niki Nakayama and her wife and sous chef Carol lida-Nakayama have created what Zagat calls “one of the most lovely, but subtle restaurants in Los Angeles,” offering Japanese Kaiseki dining — you may recall it from Season One of Chef’s Table —a many-coursed meal of small dishes focused on seasonality and simplicity. You’ll have to get a reservation well in advance for a chance to experience one of its limited seatings. Cool Haus // 8588 Washington Blvd. // Culver City // $ // women-ownedArtisinal ice cream, made with ethical ingredients and local milk by two women who got started with a truck and now have their ice cream sold in grocery stores naitonwide.

The traditional Japanese multi-course kaiseki meal is considered one of the finest dining experiences in the world, and chef Niki Nakayama’s Michelin-starred modern interpretation proves exactly why. While the 13-course tasting menu constantly evolves to highlight seasonal ingredients at the peak of their freshness, what remains constant is Nakayama’s ability to delight with dishes that draw deeply on Japanese heritage while also reflecting the influence of California. The restaurant underwent a significant remodelling in May 2024 and now features a stunning tobishi-style path inside the entranceway inset with large rocks selected from the Californian desert.

At the Michelin-starred restaurant n/naka, everything is done with the utmost care: from the attentive service to the meticulous plating, chef Niki Nakayama and partner Carole Iida-Nakayama have put thought into every detail. The restaurant’s 13-course menu stays true to the spirit of traditional kaiseki, which embraces the celebration of hyper-local, seasonal ingredients in their truest state. Bringing a balanced application of modern and traditional techniques, everything on the plate, whether it’s decadent sea urchin or humble produce from the restaurant’s organic garden, truly shines.

At her two Michelin-starred kaiseki temple in Palms, Chef Niki Nakayama serves an astounding 13-course tasting menu with an accepted progression of textures, temperatures, techniques, and ingredients, where each impeccably composed dish—seriously many of them could hang in a museum—must stand on its own but also play seamlessly with its counterparts. The "Chef's Table" star uses primarily California-sourced ingredients on her menus, and flavors are as refreshing, clean, and subtle as the environment you're sitting in. A vegetarian option is offered, as are wine or sake pairings.

The scene: Owned by one of the only female Kaiseki chefs in the world, n/naka is an exemplary Japanese restaurant which specialises in modern food influenced by an ancient, multi-course meal service popular throughout Japan. The concept might not sound out of the ordinary, but you’ll be hard pressed to find any other restaurant in Los Angeles doing anything similar to such remarkably high standards. Diners can choose from exquisite 13-course standard or vegetarian menus which are based on seasonality and are therefore subject to change almost daily.

No two visits are alike at n/naka, since chef Niki Nakayama, along with her partner and wife Carol Iida-Nakayama, keep notes on every single thing a guest eats during each meal. It’s possible in the tiny space, which offers a kaiseki-style tasting menu to just 26 guests a day, many of whom reserve months in advance. Courses are plated beautifully in unique sculptural vessels, and might feature heirloom Japanese vegetables the chefs grow in their own garden, or bonito they’ve dried and fermented in-house.

N/Naka stands as a luminary in the Los Angeles refined culinary scene, presenting an extraordinary dining journey led by Chef Niki Nakayama. With a vigilant eye for detail, Nakayama creates a contemporary render of traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine that narrates a story through taste and presentation. The restaurant exhibits the harmonious fusion of top-tier components and modern culinary techniques resulting in a sumptuous, gourmand dish inspired by both seasonal offerings and creative expression.

I’ve had four meals at n/naka over the last decade, and each time I’ve shared a moment with the person across from me that’s hard to describe without resorting to an overblown word like “awakening.” Most recently it was with my colleague Stephanie Breijo, during the seventh of the evening’s 12 courses. The dish was mushimono, a kabocha mochi dumpling submerged in dashi underneath a shinjo (ball) of compressed shrimp and uni. A zap of yuzu raced across each bite like the leaping waveform on an EKG.

n/naka is a prestigious dining establishment in Los Angeles, renowned for its modern interpretation of Japanese kaiseki cuisine. At the helm is Chef Niki Nakayama, one of the world’s few female kaiseki chefs, who masterfully transforms seasonal and locally sourced ingredients into culinary art. Each course in the multi-course tasting menu tells a story, representing not just the flavor, but the feeling of each season, taking diners on a sensory journey through its varied textures and tastes.

n/naka is a Japanese restaurant owned by Chef Niki Nakayama, who was tutored by the legendary Morihiro Onodera. Chef Niki Nakayama is great at kaiseki (an ancient form of Japanese cooking where the temperature, tastes, and texture of the meal, including the ingredients used to make it, are strictly specified by the chef and everyone involved). The staff at this restaurant are very strict with their work habits to ensure the top quality meals that are forever apparent in Nakayama’s works.

At n/naka, we are devoted to providing a unique and satisfying dining experience through our interpretation of kaiseki. This traditional Japanese culinary art form reflects the ever-changing rhythms of the earth by taking the freshest seasonal ingredients and presenting them in their most natural states. Using the very best ingredients we have access to is true kaiseki; we proudly serve vegetables from our own organic garden built and maintained by our friends at Farmscape Gardens.

At n/naka, the highly-acclaimed upscale Japanese restaurant in West Los Angeles, chef Niki Nakayama has secured a place among the foremost chefs in the world of modern kaiseki. In a meticulous, thoughtfully curated order, diners are taken on a 13-course journey through chef Niki's kaiseki adventure. Although course dishes at n/naka change seasonally, the Zensai – seasonal ingredients presented as an appetizer - is a perennial favorite.

If you are one of those rare birds who feel is such a thing as too much French or Italian, a) uh, we don’t understand what that means, but b) n/naka is here to shake things up!. N/naka is the epitome of Japanese focus and execution, making use of the finest ingredients to craft some of the most visually stunning dishes we’ve ever seen. Make sure to arrive very hungry as Chef Nakayama will take you through thirteen courses.

It’s been well over a decade ever since chefs Niki Nakayama and Carole Iida-Nakayama launched the two-Michelin-starred N/Naka on the street of Overland and Lawler in Los Angeles’ Palms area. Ever since, the kaiseki eatery has captivated both reviewers and diners with its modern approach of a centuries-old multicourse Japanese influence. The 13-course contemporary kaiseki tasting menu costs $310 per person.

It is O.K. if you are not hungry; the Chef is an artist and you can consider the evening as a visit to a foodie-art gallery. Note that the place only serves the Chef''s menu, or more precisely the dishes she dreams up for the day. This was my second visit and nothing was the same as at the first time. Incredible selection is served, including the food decorations with intriguing things, including flowers.

Chef Niki Nakayama won her impressive two Michelin stars in 2019 when the heralded restaurant review organization finally returned to this fair city. In our opinion, n/naka deserved this level of recognition long before. She is often credited with bringing kaiseki dining to California (and possibly America), forging a path through a dining culture unfamiliar with anything beyond sushi tasting menus.

Among the feasts and events are specialty Thai, Mexican, Spanish and Japanese cook-at-home pizza kits by the women behind Ayara Thai, Casa Vega, Gasolina Cafe, n/naka: Little Belize’s Stew Oxtail Plate from owner Laverne Smith; Ayara Thai’s Claypot Baked Prawns; Ospi’s Arancini Boobies and “Top Chef” contestant Nyesha Arrington guesting at Post & Beam with Hoppin’ John Fritters with Collard Aioli.

Foodies and fans of the extraordinary Netflix show, Chef’s Table, may recognize Japanese restaurant n/naka and remember celebrity chef owner Niki Nakayama's powerful origin story. One of only 20 women in history with 2 Michelin Stars, her food sings with a unique blend of Japanese flavor and Californian seasonality. This is one of the most unique restaurants in Los Angeles that you should dine in.

Los Angeles’ only proper kaiseki ryori restaurant, dining at n/naka is a holy experience. Kaiseki is multi-course Japanese meal that consists of raw, cooked, chilled, grilled, fried dishes using both seasonal and local ingredients. At n/naka, you can expect a thirteen course meal with fish and meat that are picked by the chef Niki every day and vegetables often from chef’s own organic garden.

The entirety of a meal is as significant as the sum of its parts. At n/naka, they are dedicated to providing a bespoke and enjoyable dining experience through their interpretation of kaiseki. This traditional Japanese culinary art form is reflective of the ever-changing rhythms of the earth by taking the freshest seasonal ingredients and then presenting these in their most natural states.

n/naka takes a modern approach to kaiseki by putting a California twist on classic Japanese cuisine. The traditionally zen space sets the mood as you kick off your experience with house-infused sake alongside small bites. The expansive meal then delivers heart-warming broths, fresh sashimi and cooked seafood, all of which change regularly depending on the season.

This two Michelin-starred restaurant n/naka is one of the hottest spots in Los Angeles. Splurge on your big milestone birthday and reserve your table very early in advance as this restaurant is notoriously hard to snag a table at. This kasekie-style restaurant is based on the traditional Japanese practice of serving small intricate dishes for multiple courses.

A renowned two-Michelin-starred restaurant, n/naka offers an exquisite modern interpretation of the traditional Japanese kaiseki dining experience. Chef and co-owner Niki Nakayama, was featured on the first season of Netflix's "Chef's Table" in 2015. A 13-course tasting menu celebrates ingredients at their peak, reimagining kaiseki through a California lens.

Stop by the two-star Michelin n/naka Japanese restaurant to experience the unique dining experience of Kaiseki. This traditional culinary art form uses foods prepared from natural sources presented beautifully that makes one feel connected to the earth. You’ll want to spend a relaxing amount of time dining at n/naka to enjoy every bite and taste thoroughly.

Chef Niki Nakayama hosts an intimate kaiseki dining experience at this two-Michelin-star restaurant in L.A.’s Palms neighborhood. Enjoy a multi-course meal with carefully-balanced aromatic broths, crispy grilled fish, and house-infused sake. The menu always showcases the best of California produce, much of which comes from n/naka’s own organic garden.

If you’re a fan of Netflix, you must have known n/naka, which is featured in a documentary series about some of the top-notch restaurants around the world. This 2 MICHELIN Star spot is located in Palm Springs, with a space wrapped in neutral, cozy tones that can make you feel comfortable right away. Wait for the food, it is way more impressive!

n/naka, a hidden gem nestled in the Palms neighborhood of Los Angeles, has garnered international acclaim for its innovative take on kaiseki cuisine. Here’s what makes this two-Michelin-starred restaurant a must-try:. Michelin Accolades: Earning two Michelin stars in the 2023 guide places n/naka among the finest restaurants in Los Angeles.

Chef Niki Nakayama opened N/Naka with the intention to work with only the freshest seasonal ingredients—and to create a meal that is not only delicious, but engaging as well. For a fancy night out, treat yourself to their seasonally-chosen 13-course menu that includes a vegetarian option. It’s sure to be a one-of-a-kind meal.

This modern and minimalistic restaurant offers Japanese fare in an upscale setting. Dining atn/naka is a memorable experience thanks to the tasting menu designed to help you discover unique flavors and beautifully crafted plates. You can choose between a traditional tasting menu with 13 courses or a vegetarian tasting menu.

Located in the Palms neighborhood, 15 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, n/naka is in a very unassuming place that’s easy to miss. There’s no sign that says n/naka, just a big 3455 number and a zen garden around it. It makes you wonder if you made a mistake in entering the address on your GPS and arrived at someone’s home.

There’s nothing a restaurant owner wants more than to get a high rating from the Michelin critics. n/naka has two of the potential three Michelin stars, which makes it one of the best restaurants in the world. Offering predominantly Japanese food, this restaurant will take your taste buds on a memorable tour.

Located in Palms, n/naka is a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in kaiseki cuisine. Kaiseki is a multi-course meal that is designed to showcase the best of each season’s ingredients. The menu at n/naka changes frequently, so you can always expect to enjoy a unique and memorable dining experience.

n/naka is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Los Angeles that offers a modern California approach to traditional Japanese kaiseki, using local, seasonal ingredients. Its calm atmosphere and thoughtful service create a welcoming dining experience. Reservations are released monthly through their website.

N/Naka chef Niki Nakayama shares the art of kaiseki in her elegant, unmarked restaurant in the L.A. neighborhood of Palms. Though today’s kaiseki chefs typically utilize meat and fish, Nakayama also serves a vegetarian version of her gorgeously presented, 13-course modern kaiseki menu.

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (172 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (5.0/5), Service (5.0/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: Japanese, Sushi- Price: $$$$- Address: 3455 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034-5419- Read more on Tripadvisor

In the heart of Los Angeles sits N/Naka, a small yet amazing place. Chef Niki Nakayama uses her love for both California and Japanese traditions to make unforgettable meals. With only 26 seats, it offers a unique and personal food experience.

If you’re looking for fine-dining Japanese restaurants in Los Angeles, n/naka is the place to go. It’s notably one of the renowned Michelin star restaurants in Los Angeles and serves up traditional dishes with an elevated twist.

Address: 3455 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034Phone:+1 (310) 836-6252Website:n-naka.comDetails: $$$$, Kaiseki restaurant. Get $25 off a bill of $50. Join inKind, dine at a participating venue and pay your bill with inKind

3455 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90034Phone: 310-836-6252 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by n/naka (@nnakarestaurant)

Recently deceased LA Times food icon Jonathon Gold, was a big proponent of n/naka sushi on Overland Blvd in Palms.