Sushi-Kappo Nakaichi

A beautiful meal, fully priced and some English spoken. We couldn’t sit at the counter since we were 4, but we had a very good meal. It was a little complicated to make the reservation through the Japanese website and you MUST RESERVE long in advance. I think I’d give the place another try if we go with 2 people and sit at the counter. Good quality sushi.

I don’t ever leave reviews and it’s been almost 2 years since we’ve visited this lovely establishment, but it remains one of the BEST memories we had on our 3 week trip to Japan and it was literally burning my heart that I had not yet left a review, so here it is. We walked there from a near by cherry blossom festival. We did not know this restaurant was by RESERVATION only, so we were extremely grateful when their hostess confirmed with the chef that they could lamentably only offer the 6 course meal (the smallest option which at the time was about $120 USD per person). Not what we were expecting to spend for dinner that night, but we just knew it was going to be worth every cent and it certainly was and then some!! The small family run business was quaint and comfortable. (Its small size might be a factor for requiring a reservation, but I assume it’s also due to the limited quantity of fresh fish available for the day.) It immediately felt like we stumbled across a local gem and felt privileged to be there as their guest. Our language barrier did not minimize the experience. Though some basic Japanese and use of handy translation apps came in very handy. We were so kindly received even without the reservation and the food was exquisite including fresh mountain picked vegetables. I only wish we could have had the sushi dishes written down for future reference as we could discern that some of these dishes were made from “special” fish and it would be great to confirm what we ate. It was incredible!! The chef would personally come to the table and explain each dish as best he could which was very sweet as his English was limited. But his earnestness and professionalism was truly felt. Each plate that arrived was like a specially wrapped gift made with so much care and pride and we felt like the luckiest people in all Japan if not the world!! I think our love and appreciation for Japanese culture must have somehow really come across as even a local customer was moved to graciously treat us to a few beers!! Truly a most special experience!! One I hope we have the honor to have again! 寿司割烹なかいちさん、本当にありがとうございました!!! … Oh and I accidentally returned to the BnB with one of their table napkins! I felt so embarrassed I had it washed and made sure to deliver it the next day and received the warmest of thanks and farewell!! They are the best!

We traveled to Kyoto to dine at Sushi Kappo Nakaichi, a Michelin one-star restaurant, and let me tell you—this place was extraordinary. First, the service was absolutely top-notch. The staff was warm, attentive, and made us feel incredibly welcome. But what truly stood out was Chef Takanori Ikiri himself. Not only does he speak English, making the experience even more engaging, but his kindness and passion for his craft were evident in every moment. Watching him work was nothing short of mesmerizing—words can’t do it justice. And the food? Simply breathtaking. The sashimi was to die for, with each piece melting on the tongue like a dream. Every bite was pure, refined perfection, showcasing the depth of his skill and dedication. Without a doubt, this is one of the best sushi spots in Kyoto. If you're in the city, do yourself a favor and book a seat at Sushi Kappo Nakaichi—you’ll walk away with an experience you’ll never forget.

Recommended by our concierge and turned out to be a phenomenal experience, sat at the counter and watched Chef Suhara as he prepared each sushi with an explanation and finesse AMF guidance on what to have with soya and which with just Wasabi. Each flavor was distinct. Ambiance was silk soft wood and nice and quiet

Excellent experience. this is an exclusive spot and the menu is tailored for you before your arrival. You MUST book in advance! We were given so many unique cuts of sushi, and the portions were very generous, we could barely breathe by the last course. Service was courteous and quick, food was terrific, and menu was worth the price. Again, remember to book in advance!

Chanced upon this gem of a sushi bar, and was blessed to be able to walk in and be treated to amazing sushi experience.

The staff was so beautifully friendly and warm. I felt like family before leaving even though they did not speak English well and I didn't understand Japanese at all. It all came through on the food, which was excellent and fresh, seasonal and local. It was a wonderful experience. I did the Omikase and recommend you do the same.

On our first night in Kyoto we chose this restaurant because of its high rating, and it did not disappoint. We went on a Tuesday, and I would recommend reservations, because we saw several groups turned away. We had the most extensive omakase, and by the end I was stuffed and grateful for the meal to come to an end, though even then dessert came out. Our chef Taka spoke excellent English and kept us entertained, as did the patrons next to us who reside in Kyoto. The courses were full of quality fish including otoro and uni several ways. There is no English signage outside, so look for the restaurant right on the corner. It was in my top three sushi restaurants of all time.