With over 30 years of experience, Chisou Nakamura offers a refined take on Kyushu-style Kaiseki cuisine. Crafted with premium seafood and meat from Kyushu, alongside meticulously selected ingredients from across Japan, the dishes are perfectly complemented by 20 carefully curated sake pairings. Guests are invited to savor an exceptional dashi broth, made from Japan’s finest soft water, premium bonito flakes, and Rishiri kombu (kelp), showcasing the depth and essence of Japanese flavors. A distinguished and rare two-star Michelin restaurant in Fukuoka, it harmoniously blends cuisine, ambiance, and scenery for an immersive dining experience like no other.

Chef Akira Nakamura, a graduate of the prestigious Tsuji Culinary Institute, refined his craft during seven years of training at renowned establishments in Nara, followed by a unique tenure in Kitakyushu’s seafood markets, where he deepened his understanding of ingredients from a wholesaler’s perspective. At 30, Nakamura opened Chisou Nakamura in Kitakyushu, later relocating to Hakata in 2016. The current location, designed by a Kyoto-based architect, features a sukiya-style aesthetic reminiscent of a tranquil tea room, creating a serene, otherworldly ambiance.

A meal at Chisou Nakamura begins with a personalized touch—the madam hostess presents each guest with a handwritten menu, while international diners are offered an English-translated version. The courses unfold as a celebration of the seasons: from the delicate flavors of seasonal appetizers and perfectly balanced dashi soups to vibrant Hassun platters. Freshly steamed kamado (cooking range)-cooked rice and a ceremonial serving of matcha round out the experience. Nakamura’s philosophy elevates Kaiseki as a seamless progression of impeccable courses, where no single dish dominates but rather all work together harmoniously. The restaurant’s evolving monthly menu and seasonal décor further encapsulate the essence of Japanese culinary tradition.

With just seven counter seats and two private rooms, accommodating up to 14 guests, Chisou Nakamura has gained recognition for its intimate setting that beautifully merges Japanese gastronomy with traditional culture.

• Price Range:

  Lunch: USD 164.64 - USD 299.35
  Dinner: USD 164.64 - USD 449.03

• Dietary restrictions / Allergies:

  If you have any specific food allergies or ingredients you cannot consume, please inform us in advance. Unfortunately, we cannot accept reservations if there are ingredients that you cannot eat within a wide range.

• Arrival time:

  Please arrive 5 minutes before your reserved time to ensure a timely start of your meal. If you do not contact us and exceed your reservation time, it will be automatically canceled.

• Dress Code:

  Dress code is smart casual (Please refrain from wearing T-shirts, shorts, and sandals when you visit.)

• Children:

  Guests aged 12 and above, and able to enjoy the course meal

• Others:

  We kindly ask for your consideration regarding excessive perfume or fabric softener fragrances.