Nouvelle Epoque at Hotel Okura Kyoto Bettei: Where Kyoto’s Cuisine Meets French Elegance

*This article is written based on information available as of October 2024.

Welcoming You to an Exceptional Gastronomic Experience amid the Beauty of Kyoto

The Okazaki area of Kyoto flourished as a center of modern culture during the Meiji Era (1868 to 1912) and still remains home to numerous cultural facilities, including art museums. Additionally, the establishment of Heian Jingu Shrine in 1895 here as a symbol of Kyoto’s economic revitalization enhanced the area’s historical significance.

Amidst this rich cultural and historical backdrop, Okura Hotels & Resorts offers a culinary experience unlike any other.

Skillfully crafted bamboo crafts by seasoned artisans, along with artworks from Kyoto-based artists, beautifully adorn the restaurant’s interior.

The tableware features stylish placemats made with Nishijin-ori, Kyoto’s traditional woven silk textiles, alongside sugar pots and milk pitchers from Kaikado, Japan’s oldest maker of handmade tea canisters, as well as plates crafted by Kyoto-based pottery artists.

An uncompromisingly adorned interior adds depth to this already exceptional gourmet experience.

The Japanese garden framed by the large windows reflects the beauty and tranquility of Kyoto.

Indulging in first-class French cuisine with a stunning view of this Japanese garden offers a rare, luxurious experience—one seldom found even within Japan.

A New Era of Dining Presented through the Fusion of French Cuisine

A New Era of Dining Presented through the Fusion of French Cuisine, Pioneered by Masakichi Ono—Regarded as the Father of Japanese French Cuisine—and the Elegance of Kyoto’s Culinary Culture.

After World War II, Japan experienced a surge in the quality of its restaurants and hotels, fueled by rapid economic growth. During this period, Masakichi Ono, then executive chef at Hotel Okura Tokyo (now The Okura Tokyo), elevated Western cuisine in Japan to new heights by introducing authentic French cuisine.

Nouvelle Epoque honors his culinary legacy, preserving Ono’s original approach to delicate French cuisine.

The dishes at Nouvelle Epoque are crafted with seasonal ingredients from Kyoto, showcasing the best of each season and offering a sensory experience that delights all five senses, helping to convey the essence of Kyoto's changing seasons.

Fully inspired by Kyoto kaiseki cuisine—the origin of Japan’s culinary tradition—the restaurant incorporates its delicate and sophisticated nature, inviting diners to experience Kyoto's unique culinary world.

Every step, from preparation and cooking to garnishing, is generously infused with skill and passion, resulting in dishes that offer guests the fullest, most exquisite flavors from the very first bite.

Chef has experience from starred restaurants in the Netherlands and France.

Ryoichi Yamashita Leads a Team of Expert Chefs and Staff, Bringing Remarkable Experience from Starred Restaurants in the Netherlands and France.

Executive Chef Ryoichi Yamashita was born in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and grew up with a father who was also a chef.

After joining Hotel Okura in 1992, he gained experience in the hotel’s Western cuisine department, including at La Belle Epoque, a French restaurant.

Starting in 2003, he further honed his skills at Ciel Bleu, a two-star contemporary French restaurant at Hotel Okura Amsterdam. He then moved to France in 2006 to perfect his expertise at La Maison Jaune, a one-star restaurant in St. Rémy-de-Provence.

Returning to Tokyo, he held positions such as deputy head chef and head chef at restaurants in Tokyo before assuming his current role as executive chef at Nouvelle Epoque, upon the opening of Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei.

According to Chef Yamashita, “The pure water and rich soil of Kyoto nurture ingredients that are both powerful and delicate. I place great significance on cooking methods, sauces, and the fusion of Western and Japanese elements to bring out the best in Kyoto’s ingredients.”

Make a reservation at Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei Nouvelle Epoque

We are accepting reservations for Nouvelle Epoque at Hotel Okura Kyoto Okazaki Bettei through JapanEatinerary.

The experience at this restaurant is sure to be a highlight of your stay in Japan.