Wa Yamamura

I didn't know how to get a reservation so I asked Amex concierge to help and they were able to get a reservation for me about a month before our trip. I thought this restaurant is worth going to if you are in Nara. The food was light in a good way and beautifully presented. There were some interest...ing flavors and I don't usually like abalone but their version of it was very good. I recommend getting a more expensive set meal to get a chance to see how talented the chef is. Ours was the 18k yen set.

Visited May 2026

This was recommended by the Nara Hotel and they made the reservation. We were fortunate enough to be seated right in front of Chef Yamamura. We ordered the top "course" and had a 12 course tasting menu. Everything was not only delicious but a work of art. The restaurant was full and everyone seeme...d to be having a great time. There were Japanese families and some foreign visitors. This is clearly recognized as a special place. We received a hand drawn menu and at the end the Chef wrote a beautiful calligraphy message and signed it. It was an unexpected surprise. We ended the delightful evening when we went out to the taxi the hostess called for us and the Chef came out and bowed goodbye. I've been to quite a few Michelin restaurants. This was really a memorable meal and I would definitely go back.

Visited February 2024

We got a last minute reservation here courtesy of the concierge at the JW Marriott (separate review). We had asked for Omakase, and the answer was "this place is awesome, but probably not available." We were surprised we could get in. So, the meal. Every course was excellent. Sitting at the bar..., the service was beyond excellent, and talking with chef Yamamura was special (I apologize for my broken Nihongo, chef). Our meal would have cost 2-3x in Tokyo, and been less fresh. We left with a sense of unreality, after-of course-having been ojigi'd out by the chef and waitress. If you can get in, eat here. Simple as that

Visited April 2023

This place is extraordinary. Food is delicious and presented beautifully. Excellent service. Couple who run it do it professionally and are very kind. Small place. Get reservations early. We had their multicourse fixed price meal. Joyfully filled us up. Everything was fresh and delicious. Wasn't ... a very accessible neighborhood for us, but can get there by cab, and they call you one or use Uber to get back. The chef explained the dished well enough, and they had an English description of aeach course. See photos. Highly recommend. Great meal!!! They earned their stars.

Visited May 2023

The food was exquisite with marvelous tastes and was a true culinary adventure, strongly recommend!!

Visited March 2020