The best restaurant I’ve ever been to. Exceptional, perfectly balanced dishes with a sometimes unusual but always tasteful wine and beverage pairing. Service was incredibly friendly and discreet. If I’m ever back in LA, I will definitely return.

Thanks for offering the Kaiseki Jūbako - a light into this quarantine time. The piece of melting otoro instantly transported one into a transcendental realm. Then the culinary craftsmanship somehow locked the very gist of each meat in itself, be it wagyu, duck, lobster - or eggplant. Meantime the delicate and subtle tastes of truffle & liver sauce, of mustard, of sesame dressing, or of the deep smokiness permeating the fish, was unforgettable - or perhaps beyond words. And at the end, praise the strawberry (red bean) daifuku - didn’t know a daifuku has such potentiality! P.S. I have no idea how I managed to score one last Saturday. Best luck 🔔

This review is only for takeout service since my friends and I have never been able to score a reservation, and the restaurant is closed to in-person dining. There are a limited number of to-go slots made available on Saturday mornings and all get claimed within about a minute. I've managed to get 2 bento ($38) slots. The photo I uploaded includes a menu of included dishes. Everything was excellent, although the tempura lost some crispiness due to the 20-minute drive home.

Such a memorable place to dine....would give more stars if I could. EVERYRING is top notch from the service to the quality of food. Highly recommended

+2

I’m honestly not sure what more could be said about n/naka that hasn’t already been said, but I’ll give it a shot. Dinner here is art. Yes it sounds corny and maybe a little pretentious, but I can’t think of another word to describe it. The meal was exquisitely presented with the freshest seasonal ingredients and followed a cohesive theme that balanced taste, appearance, and texture. I think the mark of any great restaurant is one that changes your perception of how an ingredient is typically handled. It was the roasted unagi course that did it for me - its pairing with a slightly tingly (from the yuzu pepper) butter vinaigrette was refreshing. Service was incredibly thoughtful and approachable. Coming from someone who usually skips out on drink pairings, I highly recommend getting the wine and sake pairing! I split one with my friend and let’s just say they are very generous with their pours. The pain of obtaining a reservation here will all be worth it when you visit.

+6

It was an amazing experience to dine at n/naka. Chef Nakayama is superb with her selection and execution of all dishes and everyone in the service staff was very knowledgeable and polite. I got the Vegetarian tasting Menu and being a fussy eater, wasn't disappointed at all. Every dish hits the mark with it's own unique cooking technique and flavor. We got the late slot for dinner which began at 9pm and lasted around 3.5 hours. Good luck getting that highly elusive reservation which sells out in a matter of seconds - literally. It took us about 7 weeks of regular sitting on Tock to get a reservation for 4 people but the wait was totally worth it.

+4

Eating at n/naka was an experience unlikely anything I have encountered before. I've been dreaming about eating here since the documentary came out and once I did get the reservation, the hype built day by day. I had such high expectations coming here and was worried that they might not be met, however, days after I have eaten at n/naka I am still enraptured by the night that I dined there. Magical, mystical, comforting, tranquil, effervescent, and delicious are some of the words that I would describe both the food and the experience of dining at n/naka. The ambience, the impeccable service, and the flow of the entire night made dining at n/naka an adventure, the dishes a symphony. Not only are the ingredients high quality but one can taste the care and love that Chef Niki and all her staff puts into each dish. Highly highly recommend this experience if you get the chance. Go with an open mind, an open heart, and a hungry stomach. You won't regret it!

n/naka is a restaurant that you must experience in order to know how amazing it is. Every aspect of the experience was well worth the cost. Service was exceptional, the environment was simple and helped to focus you on those with you and the food. The food was breathtaking in presentation, flavor profile, texture, balance, coursing, passion, and love. The courses are well portioned for you to make it to the last course full and satisfied. n/naka is one of a kind. P.S. watch the chef's table episode from volume 1.

+6

The courses were amazing. The hospitality, equally so. The flavors and experience got better with each course. A very memorable reopening night (after COVID) that I was fortunate enough to experience. (Thank you, Henny & Chef Nikki)

+5

Every dish was fantastic. Amount of food is great for an Omakase, they also give you an option of a hand roll (not pictured) if you are still hungry. Pictures are in order of the course from start the finish

+6

Due to COVID, there is only take out available. The Ekiben Japan Tribute ($85pp) was the one that I scored. The food was all inspired by dishes found around Shinkansen train stations throughout Japan. Some menu item favorites: Salmon Shioyaki (Niigata) Kurobuta Katsu with Hatcho Miso (Nagoya) Bara Chirashi don (Osaka) Tamogoyaki To score a take out, they release these reservations at 10am/pst every Saturday. So you need to be quick! It took several weeks before I was able to get one. Maybe you will be lucky and get it sooner than me! After getting the reservation, you're emailed the confirmation and when you arrive, there is a check in table outside. It went smoothly and quickly. The food was amazing and there were instructions on how to reheat some of the items. It was fun trying to match the food items to the menu! Fish was fresh and perfect- I wanted more! Also, proceeds from the bento benefit RE: Her, a charitable organization for women-owned restaurants in Los Angeles, created by women who own restaurants in Los Angeles. Can't wait to come back when they reopen indoors!

+1

Amazing foods, decor, staff. Their truffle pasta is the best in town. Nigiri are also fresh and well seasoned.

+1

2nd time here and it definitely didn't disappoint. First time was in Jan 2018 and they have since been awarded 2 Michelin stars. Chef Niki Nakayama definitely knows what she's doing and continues to innovate. Definitely recommend this place if you are able to get a reservation.

+6

One of the Michelin 2-star restaurants in LA. Recommended by the chef of KAME Vegas saying the female chef here is amazing and serves the best omakase in LA. so we gotta try this place! Everything is beautifully presented and delicious! THE ONLY thing is that is extremely hard to get a reservation here:(

+6

Loved every minute, from the incredibly kind staff to the clean, artful presentation to the amazing flavors of the food. Chef Niki is a force. And the best part is she's so down to earth. I will be thinking about some of these dishes for months! Can't wait to come back.

The meal of a lifetime - everything was perfectly curated, from the decor to the music to the perfect progression of dishes. The food was amazingly intricate and complex, yet the flavours of each ingredient still came through clean and vibrant. Chef Niki was a pleasure to meet; cannot wait to come back again.

Connor Rose

Fantastic dining experience at n/naka. Upon arrival, the service was fantastic and we sat at a spacious booth for five at the front of the restaurant. Each dish was fantastic, and they were able to accommodate one guest in our party with dietary restrictions. Two of us had the expertly crafted wine/sake pairing. The soup broths were so warming and flavorful, the wagyu was top notch, and the spices/herbs used across the dishes kept us on our toes with every bite. Reservations are challenging to get, but we hope to be back soon. My personal favorites were the shiizakana, yakimono, and zukuri.

Eunice

This 2-stars Michelin experience was on par with the some of my 2, 3-stars experiences I had in Europe and South America. Ambience was relaxed and cozy. Like, dining at friends home. John, our server was warm & humorous. The current Fall menu paid homage to Japan’s classics in the Fall with an LA twist. Many courses had wow factor surprises, and perfectly executed creativity. No flops. Chef Niki paid attention to the tiniest details. Price is high, but then we are in LA. Many restaurants charge as much if not more for tasting menus. It is worth the resy trouble & saving for an experience. The pairing price though has a slightly lower QPR. The use of a distinctive Albariño to pair with the nigiri dish was unexpectedly good. Also loved the complimentary welcome tea & sake which were not part of the “sake & wine pairing”). The take home gift bag cookies and tea bag was nice touch. Also, really can’t compared to the kaiseki in Japan, this isn’t the most traditional kaiseki but LA kaiseki at its finest. Well deserved the 2-stars. I am honestly curious about their winter menu come January. Better start saving up. 😛

M I

One of the best meals I have ever had. Chef Nakayama has definitely proven that she is more than worthy of her Michelin star status. The chef’s meal was 13 courses that were carefully prepared and served in a specific order so that each dish could be enjoyed to its fullest. I also got to enjoy the wine and sake pairings which showcase some amazing sakes that were imported from Japan and went extremely well with the dishes that were served. If you are a fan of Japanese food or just amazing food in general, I would highly recommend this restaurant this is definitely one for the bucket list. We recently had an opportunity to return for a second time to n/naka for another incredible experience! Absolutely loved the new look of the restaurant after the renovation. It truly feels as though you have been transported to another place entirely. The service staff were wonderful and I did also notice improvements from my first visit there as far as service flow. The food was of course impeccable and the attention to detail was incredible even going so far as to plate my dishes in the opposite order of everyone else’s because I’m left handed so the the dish’s description would make sense for me too! I truly believe that this restaurant will not only reclaim its second star but also has a legitimate chance to make it all the way to the coveted three star rating. Thank you to Chef Nakayama and all the wonderful staff at n/naka for another perfect experience!

Michael Kawamoto

Had an unbelievable experience here at Nnaka with my mom for her 65th birthday. It included a 13 course meal with some bonus dishes. Each dish was meticulously made and incredibly delicious. Imported ingredients from around the world made the dishes seem that much more special. At $365/person, it was a little under a $1k for 2 people including tax and tip, but well worth the EXPERIENCE. The chefs greeted us at the end of the meal and we left knowing we had the best meals of our lives. I've been to many other Michelin star restaurants and this was on another level. They really deserve to have their 2nd star back. Please give it back to them.

Keith Lee

Excellent food and service. Thank you, John, our server. Much better than Kato in creativity, taste, and overall experience.

Shaun Young

n/naka is simply stunning from start to finish. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly greeted and lead to our table. The space itself is gorgeous. The service is warm, friendly and approachable - never stuffy or stiff as some might expect of a 2 star Michelin restaurant. The menu is an exquisite journey - each course a work of art that builds on itself. The tasting menu changes 5 times a year. The highlights during our meal were the lobster croquette and the pasta with fish roe, abalone and truffles. Everything was incredible, but these 2 dishes were decadent and delicious. The meal is an experience to remember. There are those meals that stay with you for your lifetime, and Chef Niki has meticulously created that for diners here.

tburr

My dining experience at n/naka was nothing short of extraordinary. Chef Niki Nakayama and her team delivered an unforgettable kaiseki meal, paired with impeccable service. Each dish was a masterpiece—unique, artfully presented, and bursting with an explosion of flavors. The interplay of salty and sweet, hot and cold, soft and dense, umami and bright acidity created a perfect harmony that delighted the palate. From the first course to the last, every bite was a revelation, showcasing incredible creativity and precision. The waitstaff elevated the evening further with their exceptional knowledge of the menu, guiding us through each course with warmth and expertise. Securing a reservation was no small feat, but the effort was undeniably worth it for a dining experience that will stay with us forever. n/naka is a true gem, and I can’t recommend it highly enough for anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime culinary journey.

Andrew Lim

N/Naka is one of the finest Japanese restaurant in California, and this Michelin starred restaurant by chef Niki Nakayama offers an incredible 13 course kaiseki menu that seamlessly blends classical Japanese flavors and techniques with California cuisine and ingredients. Dishes here are elegant and expertly prepared, showcasing different temperatures and textures (equally balanced between cooked and cold dishes). We especially liked the dashi broths which were rich with umami. Highlights include the A5 wagyu, crab in its shell, selection of sashimi and the beautiful pickled starter dishes. Staff here are wonderful and sincere and make the dining experience special and memorable. The newly renovated interior also offers a quiet and intimate setting. Reservations at N/Naka are next to impossible (they open up on a rolling basis every Sunday on Tock), and a fair amount of dedication and perseverance will be required to dine here. It is IMO worth the hype and the effort and is nothing short of extraordinary. It was also a delight to meet chef Niki at the end, who was extremely friendly and gracious.

Eugene Cheng

Can’t even use words to describe how intricate, flavorful, and well presented each and every course was at this restaurant. Definitely worthy of the Michelin stars they have. Restaurant is pretty hard to book because it is a small restaurant but if you’re diligent in checking at 10am when reservations open you’ll be able to get a seat. There was not a single course that we didn’t like, lots of unique flavor combinations. My favorite would probably be the fried fish which literally melted as well as the truffle spaghetti dish (unique contrast to an otherwise traditional Japanese menu). I usually don’t get full from fine dining restaurants but not this one! highly recommend!

sIIcAnton

It was simply an unforgettable evening. The food was indescribably delicious. So much attention to detail, so tasty and diverse. Simply brilliant. And the staff was so kind and incredibly attentive. World-class. And the wine pairing and the selected Sakes were fantastic. It was a great honor and joy for us to dine there and have such an unforgettable evening. 20 of 5 Stars!!!

Food_travel_girl

Absolutely loved this experience. Thank you for this wonderful comfortable dinner. It’s exactly what I love. The restaurant is not big which I liked because it felt cozy and not super crowded. Non of the courses specifically stood out but everything was perfect. Service was absolutely incredible, always caring and super friendly. Loved how they kept giving extra courses and even adding a lovely Polaroid picture at the end. It’s crazy how they even thank us again by sending a letter to my address. Loved it and LOVED IT. Just go

Daniel Wingard

Having lived in Palms for some 11 years, we first heard about the n/naka when the Chef's Table episode featuring Chef Nakayama came out and stunned us with the knowledge that our humble neighborhood has a world-class restaurant like n/naka and such an amazing chef. n/naka has held a special spot for both of us long before tonight and what a treat to finally get the experience for ourselves! In the last 9 years, we've been to many fine dining & recognized restaurants in LA and around the world but never back to our hometown hero and in fact ended up planning a trip to Japan in 2023 as it was just so dang hard to get a table at n/naka! Tonight we found out why: humility and formality carried from Japanese kaiseki are delightfully coupled with the Chef's innovation and amazing cuisine. She and her team bring a clear story of tradition, but delightful liberties and creativities means both an elemental Japanese deference, but also a playful spirit. And food! Unwavering attention to detail in visual presentation and ingredient quality across every dish. Texture, temperature, shape, flavors, tools - all adding to beauty. Only one soft-spot: a chestnut dessert that tended too sweet without really sticking the landing for us. But that was easily forgiven with incredible sukiyaki-style beef, a spiny lobster 'meatball' in broth we will continue to dream about, perfectly cut and selected fish for sashimi and nigiri. Stunning ingredients, rich broths, decadent plating and vibrant colors continuously impressed, but a subtle formality and eye to restraint maintained an undercurrent of humility. The staff were thoughtful and attentive, getting out of the way, but also constantly ready to help, answer a question, extend a smile: among the best we've had in LA. We were greeted at the front door by name. Our host and server seemed to know us. The sweet smiling Chef even came to our table, knew our names, and engaged in conversation. The attention to detail paid to help guests feel truly honored is truly impressive here! Thank you for a lovely birthday dinner. We appreciate you, Chef Nakayama, alongside what is clearly a devoted team 🙏

Paul Masatani

I’ve wanted to eat here since watching that Chef’s Table episode 9 years ago. It was seemingly impossible to get a reservation back then and was still pretty damn difficult now but for good reason. Simply put eating here is like listening to a perfect album. Like any good album it started off with a banger to set the tone, the hits just kept coming, some soft, some loud, and it ended with not one but two very different delicious desserts. I didn’t even realize 3 hours had passed, was kinda sad it was over but man what a journey. It was on my bucket list to eat here and hope to return.

Laura Mills

Had an extraordinary culinary experience at n/naka last night. I understand why it's so hard to get a reservation... It was without equal. The best meal I have ever enjoyed. We got the optional wine and sake pairing to match the 13 course kaiseki and it was perfection. Each course was beautiful, surprising, nuanced, and holy f*ck delicious. I'm in awe of the mastery of technique and respect for ingredients displayed by the chefs. Some of the best service I've experienced at a Michelin star establishment as well. Attention to detail is what sets n/naka apart. The meal ends with a personal thank you from the chef. Filled with gratitude ❤️

Jeff Streit

There are so many places in LA to have a great Kaiseki experience but N/Naka really stands out and is absolutely worth it. The restaurant sits inside a nondescript grey building on the corner of Overland and Lawler in Culver City. The interior environment is small but not cramped and is traditional Japanese modern. The narrow color pallete helps to make the colorful dishes really pop. The tasting menu offers 13 impeccably created courses. From sashimi to pasta to wagyu each one is beautifully plated, art in and of itself. Service is attentive but not overbearing and does a great job of making you feel comfortable. Many other restaurants go for a more stoic experience but N/Naka keeps it somehow fun and light. We opted for the wine and sake pairing and thought it was definitely worth it. It added another element to the tasting experience and was actually a decent value with the opportunity to try 9 different wine and sake. Overall a fantastic experience that definitely lived up to it's reputation. And don't forget there is valet parking in back!

Nick W

Amazing experience with spectacular food representation and world-class service. They internationally limit the seats for a quieter ambient and better service; the waiters/ waitresses are all very friendly, chatty, and somewhere knowledgeable. At the end, the chief came to every party and thanked them for participating in the food journey.

betty tran

We eat with our eyes as well as our mouths. The experience that n/naka provides is truly exceptional and unparalleled. The food is both visually stunning and absolutely delicious. Every last detail is so considerate and deliberate. The vegetarian menu was equally as impressive as the land and sea, and the menu is constantly changing with the seasons. The staff was all incredibly amazing as well. Though it has taken us years of failed reservation attempts, we finally were able to make it and could not be more grateful. We left with our bellies full and our hearts happy. Simply exquisite!

Christine S

I’m honestly not sure what more could be said about n/naka that hasn’t already been said, but I’ll give it a shot. Dinner here is art. Yes it sounds corny and maybe a little pretentious, but I can’t think of another word to describe it. The meal was exquisitely presented with the freshest seasonal ingredients and followed a cohesive theme that balanced taste, appearance, and texture. I think the mark of any great restaurant is one that changes your perception of how an ingredient is typically handled. It was the roasted unagi course that did it for me - its pairing with a slightly tingly (from the yuzu pepper) butter vinaigrette was refreshing. Service was incredibly thoughtful and approachable. Coming from someone who usually skips out on drink pairings, I highly recommend getting the wine and sake pairing! I split one with my friend and let’s just say they are very generous with their pours. The pain of obtaining a reservation here will all be worth it when you visit.

We eat with our eyes as well as our mouths. The experience that n/naka provides is truly exceptional and unparalleled. The food is both visually stunning and absolutely delicious. Every last detail is so considerate and deliberate. The vegetarian menu was equally as impressive as the land and sea, and the menu is constantly changing with the seasons. The staff was all incredibly amazing as well. Though it has taken us years of failed reservation attempts, we finally were able to make it and could not be more grateful. We left with our bellies full and our hearts happy. Simply exquisite!

+6

Amazing experience with spectacular food representation and world-class service. They internationally limit the seats for a quieter ambient and better service; the waiters/ waitresses are all very friendly, chatty, and somewhere knowledgeable. At the end, the chief came to every party and thanked them for participating in the food journey.

+6

There are so many places in LA to have a great Kaiseki experience but N/Naka really stands out and is absolutely worth it. The restaurant sits inside a nondescript grey building on the corner of Overland and Lawler in Culver City. The interior environment is small but not cramped and is traditional Japanese modern. The narrow color pallete helps to make the colorful dishes really pop. The tasting menu offers 13 impeccably created courses. From sashimi to pasta to wagyu each one is beautifully plated, art in and of itself. Service is attentive but not overbearing and does a great job of making you feel comfortable. Many other restaurants go for a more stoic experience but N/Naka keeps it somehow fun and light. We opted for the wine and sake pairing and thought it was definitely worth it. It added another element to the tasting experience and was actually a decent value with the opportunity to try 9 different wine and sake. Overall a fantastic experience that definitely lived up to it's reputation. And don't forget there is valet parking in back!

I’ve wanted to eat here since watching that Chef’s Table episode 9 years ago. It was seemingly impossible to get a reservation back then and was still pretty damn difficult now but for good reason. Simply put eating here is like listening to a perfect album. Like any good album it started off with a banger to set the tone, the hits just kept coming, some soft, some loud, and it ended with not one but two very different delicious desserts. I didn’t even realize 3 hours had passed, was kinda sad it was over but man what a journey. It was on my bucket list to eat here and hope to return.

+6

Having lived in Palms for some 11 years, we first heard about the n/naka when the Chef's Table episode featuring Chef Nakayama came out and stunned us with the knowledge that our humble neighborhood has a world-class restaurant like n/naka and such an amazing chef. n/naka has held a special spot for both of us long before tonight and what a treat to finally get the experience for ourselves! In the last 9 years, we've been to many fine dining & recognized restaurants in LA and around the world but never back to our hometown hero and in fact ended up planning a trip to Japan in 2023 as it was just so dang hard to get a table at n/naka! Tonight we found out why: humility and formality carried from Japanese kaiseki are delightfully coupled with the Chef's innovation and amazing cuisine. She and her team bring a clear story of tradition, but delightful liberties and creativities means both an elemental Japanese deference, but also a playful spirit. And food! Unwavering attention to detail in visual presentation and ingredient quality across every dish. Texture, temperature, shape, flavors, tools - all adding to beauty. Only one soft-spot: a chestnut dessert that tended too sweet without really sticking the landing for us. But that was easily forgiven with incredible sukiyaki-style beef, a spiny lobster 'meatball' in broth we will continue to dream about, perfectly cut and selected fish for sashimi and nigiri. Stunning ingredients, rich broths, decadent plating and vibrant colors continuously impressed, but a subtle formality and eye to restraint maintained an undercurrent of humility. The staff were thoughtful and attentive, getting out of the way, but also constantly ready to help, answer a question, extend a smile: among the best we've had in LA. We were greeted at the front door by name. Our host and server seemed to know us. The sweet smiling Chef even came to our table, knew our names, and engaged in conversation. The attention to detail paid to help guests feel truly honored is truly impressive here! Thank you for a lovely birthday dinner. We appreciate you, Chef Nakayama, alongside what is clearly a devoted team 🙏

+6

Had an extraordinary culinary experience at n/naka last night. I understand why it's so hard to get a reservation... It was without equal. The best meal I have ever enjoyed. We got the optional wine and sake pairing to match the 13 course kaiseki and it was perfection. Each course was beautiful, surprising, nuanced, and holy f*ck delicious. I'm in awe of the mastery of technique and respect for ingredients displayed by the chefs. Some of the best service I've experienced at a Michelin star establishment as well. Attention to detail is what sets n/naka apart. The meal ends with a personal thank you from the chef. Filled with gratitude ❤️

+6

Absolutely loved this experience. Thank you for this wonderful comfortable dinner. It’s exactly what I love. The restaurant is not big which I liked because it felt cozy and not super crowded. Non of the courses specifically stood out but everything was perfect. Service was absolutely incredible, always caring and super friendly. Loved how they kept giving extra courses and even adding a lovely Polaroid picture at the end. It’s crazy how they even thank us again by sending a letter to my address. Loved it and LOVED IT. Just go

+6

It was simply an unforgettable evening. The food was indescribably delicious. So much attention to detail, so tasty and diverse. Simply brilliant. And the staff was so kind and incredibly attentive. World-class. And the wine pairing and the selected Sakes were fantastic. It was a great honor and joy for us to dine there and have such an unforgettable evening. 20 of 5 Stars!!!

+6

Can’t even use words to describe how intricate, flavorful, and well presented each and every course was at this restaurant. Definitely worthy of the Michelin stars they have. Restaurant is pretty hard to book because it is a small restaurant but if you’re diligent in checking at 10am when reservations open you’ll be able to get a seat. There was not a single course that we didn’t like, lots of unique flavor combinations. My favorite would probably be the fried fish which literally melted as well as the truffle spaghetti dish (unique contrast to an otherwise traditional Japanese menu). I usually don’t get full from fine dining restaurants but not this one! highly recommend!

+6

N/Naka is one of the finest Japanese restaurant in California, and this Michelin starred restaurant by chef Niki Nakayama offers an incredible 13 course kaiseki menu that seamlessly blends classical Japanese flavors and techniques with California cuisine and ingredients. Dishes here are elegant and expertly prepared, showcasing different temperatures and textures (equally balanced between cooked and cold dishes). We especially liked the dashi broths which were rich with umami. Highlights include the A5 wagyu, crab in its shell, selection of sashimi and the beautiful pickled starter dishes. Staff here are wonderful and sincere and make the dining experience special and memorable. The newly renovated interior also offers a quiet and intimate setting. Reservations at N/Naka are next to impossible (they open up on a rolling basis every Sunday on Tock), and a fair amount of dedication and perseverance will be required to dine here. It is IMO worth the hype and the effort and is nothing short of extraordinary. It was also a delight to meet chef Niki at the end, who was extremely friendly and gracious.

+6

My dining experience at n/naka was nothing short of extraordinary. Chef Niki Nakayama and her team delivered an unforgettable kaiseki meal, paired with impeccable service. Each dish was a masterpiece—unique, artfully presented, and bursting with an explosion of flavors. The interplay of salty and sweet, hot and cold, soft and dense, umami and bright acidity created a perfect harmony that delighted the palate. From the first course to the last, every bite was a revelation, showcasing incredible creativity and precision. The waitstaff elevated the evening further with their exceptional knowledge of the menu, guiding us through each course with warmth and expertise. Securing a reservation was no small feat, but the effort was undeniably worth it for a dining experience that will stay with us forever. n/naka is a true gem, and I can’t recommend it highly enough for anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime culinary journey.

+6

n/naka is simply stunning from start to finish. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly greeted and lead to our table. The space itself is gorgeous. The service is warm, friendly and approachable - never stuffy or stiff as some might expect of a 2 star Michelin restaurant. The menu is an exquisite journey - each course a work of art that builds on itself. The tasting menu changes 5 times a year. The highlights during our meal were the lobster croquette and the pasta with fish roe, abalone and truffles. Everything was incredible, but these 2 dishes were decadent and delicious. The meal is an experience to remember. There are those meals that stay with you for your lifetime, and Chef Niki has meticulously created that for diners here.

+6

Excellent food and service. Thank you, John, our server. Much better than Kato in creativity, taste, and overall experience.

+6

Had an unbelievable experience here at Nnaka with my mom for her 65th birthday. It included a 13 course meal with some bonus dishes. Each dish was meticulously made and incredibly delicious. Imported ingredients from around the world made the dishes seem that much more special. At $365/person, it was a little under a $1k for 2 people including tax and tip, but well worth the EXPERIENCE. The chefs greeted us at the end of the meal and we left knowing we had the best meals of our lives. I've been to many other Michelin star restaurants and this was on another level. They really deserve to have their 2nd star back. Please give it back to them.

+6

One of the best meals I have ever had. Chef Nakayama has definitely proven that she is more than worthy of her Michelin star status. The chef’s meal was 13 courses that were carefully prepared and served in a specific order so that each dish could be enjoyed to its fullest. I also got to enjoy the wine and sake pairings which showcase some amazing sakes that were imported from Japan and went extremely well with the dishes that were served. If you are a fan of Japanese food or just amazing food in general, I would highly recommend this restaurant this is definitely one for the bucket list. We recently had an opportunity to return for a second time to n/naka for another incredible experience! Absolutely loved the new look of the restaurant after the renovation. It truly feels as though you have been transported to another place entirely. The service staff were wonderful and I did also notice improvements from my first visit there as far as service flow. The food was of course impeccable and the attention to detail was incredible even going so far as to plate my dishes in the opposite order of everyone else’s because I’m left handed so the the dish’s description would make sense for me too! I truly believe that this restaurant will not only reclaim its second star but also has a legitimate chance to make it all the way to the coveted three star rating. Thank you to Chef Nakayama and all the wonderful staff at n/naka for another perfect experience!

+6

We have been wanting to come to N/Naka for the past 10 years. Finally we made it in January 2026! This is the best dining experience we have ever had. The restaurant ambience is very cozy and comfortable, the decor is minimalistic and Zen. Our server John was very attentive and friendly. The food at N/Naka was superb! The appetizer plater was packed with delicious little dishes, everyone of them was so elegantly tasty. The black cod fish grilled in pine needles was so delicately tender, juicy and tasted like from another world. The sea urchins from Santa Barbara tasted so fresh and sweet, the fatty tuna melted in our mouth. The pasta with Mentaiko and black truffle tasted heavenly, the flavor just exploded in the mouth. In addition to the nigiri sushi sets, The chef also gave each customer a hand rolled blue crab sushi roll - so good! At end of the meal, Chef Niki Nakayama actually came over and greeted us. We felt so privileged to meet her in person. Chef Niki Nakayama was so graceful and warm and let us take a picture with her. Our entire dining experience was so wonderful and memorable that we kept thinking and talking about it even after we left LA. Comparing to the other one star Michelin restaurants that we had been to, we totally believe that N/Naka deserve Two Michelin stars! There are NO doubts about it. We can't wait to go back to N/Naka again!

+1

There’s something about this restaurant that just feels easy in the best way. The space was inviting, well organized, and had a comfortable energy that worked whether you were visiting solo or with others. It’s the kind of environment where you can actually relax. The staff was professional and approachable, which made the whole experience feel seamless. Everything flowed naturally, and nothing felt forced or overly scripted. I visit a lot of places as a travel streamer, and this is the type of spot I always enjoy sharing with my audience. It’s consistent, comfortable, and genuinely enjoyable. Follow me on Instagram @AutumnTheNomad

This 2-stars Michelin experience was on par with the some of my 2, 3-stars experiences I had in Europe and South America. Ambience was relaxed and cozy. Like, dining at friends home. John, our server was warm & humorous. The current Fall menu paid homage to Japan’s classics in the Fall with an LA twist. Many courses had wow factor surprises, and perfectly executed creativity. No flops. Chef Niki paid attention to the tiniest details. Price is high, but then we are in LA. Many restaurants charge as much if not more for tasting menus. It is worth the resy trouble & saving for an experience. The pairing price though has a slightly lower QPR. The use of a distinctive Albariño to pair with the nigiri dish was unexpectedly good. Also loved the complimentary welcome tea & sake which were not part of the “sake & wine pairing”). The take home gift bag cookies and tea bag was nice touch. Also, really can’t compared to the kaiseki in Japan, this isn’t the most traditional kaiseki but LA kaiseki at its finest. Well deserved the 2-stars. I am honestly curious about their winter menu come January. Better start saving up. 😛

+6

Fantastic dining experience at n/naka. Upon arrival, the service was fantastic and we sat at a spacious booth for five at the front of the restaurant. Each dish was fantastic, and they were able to accommodate one guest in our party with dietary restrictions. Two of us had the expertly crafted wine/sake pairing. The soup broths were so warming and flavorful, the wagyu was top notch, and the spices/herbs used across the dishes kept us on our toes with every bite. Reservations are challenging to get, but we hope to be back soon. My personal favorites were the shiizakana, yakimono, and zukuri.

+6

We came for our 9th wedding anniversary and I am already wanting to plan another trip. We first heard of Chef Nikki and n/naka years ago when my wife and I were still just dating in school and watching the first season of Chef's Table on Netflix. It was the first episode we put on and we fell in love with what she stood for and the work she put in. Years later, she still shines, and her drive and the art in her work are just as described. We felt like honored guests and I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to feel valued and who enjoys good food. She changes her menu around, so you'll have to see for yourself, but it was a beautifully crafted kaiseki. Thank you for a wonderful night!

Jed Castillo

We came for our 9th wedding anniversary and I am already wanting to plan another trip. We first heard of Chef Nikki and n/naka years ago when my wife and I were still just dating in school and watching the first season of Chef's Table on Netflix. It was the first episode we put on and we fell in love with what she stood for and the work she put in. Years later, she still shines, and her drive and the art in her work are just as described. We felt like honored guests and I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to feel valued and who enjoys good food. She changes her menu around, so you'll have to see for yourself, but it was a beautifully crafted kaiseki. Thank you for a wonderful night!

I wish I could give the restaurant five stars but the noise level from the other diners detracted from the experience. I found the restaurant very cold perhaps it is intentional to keep folks awake through the many courses. My favorite courses were the sashimi, pasta, blue crab roll, and foigras. The bathroom is beautiful. N/naka needs to work on the aucustics and install sound abatement or find a different location. The total cost for two with one glass of wine was $420 before gratuity. I was so looking forward to eating there after seeing it featured on Chef's Table on Netflix. If the noise issue persists it would be hard for me to venture back.

+6

It’s good, not great. I think $200 a person is more appropriate but the sushi is better at many other places Staff and atmosphere can’t be beat though

N/naka is a 2-star restaurant in downtown LA. Valet parking is available at US$ 12/car. The restaurant’s simple yet chic interior design matches very well with Chef Niki Nakayama’s modern kaiseki concept which fuses local fresh ingredients with her Japanese root. While the young servers are friendly and efficient, their dish introductions can be overwhelming due to their talking speed and loaded information. The New Year version of the 13-course seasonal omakase dinner (US$ 365/person) is fresh, vibrant, delicious, and comes with surprises. Highly recommend to try at least once!

+6

the meal started slow, wasn’t impressed by the initial dishes. only started getting into the meat of things (hah) with the A5 wagyu course. everything after that was deliciousness. perfect amount of sake/wine in the pairing. overall, n/naka was nice to try but lacking the creativity/inventiveness that I prefer in my meals. especially at that price point.

+6

XO Handsome

N/naka is a 2-star restaurant in downtown LA. Valet parking is available at US$ 12/car. The restaurant’s simple yet chic interior design matches very well with Chef Niki Nakayama’s modern kaiseki concept which fuses local fresh ingredients with her Japanese root. While the young servers are friendly and efficient, their dish introductions can be overwhelming due to their talking speed and loaded information. The New Year version of the 13-course seasonal omakase dinner (US$ 365/person) is fresh, vibrant, delicious, and comes with surprises. Highly recommend to try at least once!