Our Expert's Take
n/naka stands out as one of the premier dining destinations in Los Angeles, not only for its Michelin star but for the artistry and precision that Chef Nakayama brings to each dish. The 13-course kaiseki meal is a testament to her culinary prowess, where every plate is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese techniques, making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
What truly sets n/naka apart is the meticulous care in the presentation and the seamless flow of the meal. Each course is served in a specific order, designed to create a harmonious dining experience that lingers long after the last bite. For food lovers seeking an exceptional culinary journey, n/naka promises not just a meal, but a memorable event that showcases the best of Japanese haute cuisine.
At a Glance
Pros
- Expertly crafted 13-course kaiseki meal.
- Intimate and elegant dining atmosphere.
- Exceptional service that enhances the dining experience.
Cons
- Reservations are often required well in advance.
- Pricing may be on the higher side for some diners.
What Diners Are Saying
"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."- Matthew Ishiki
"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."- Michael Kawamoto
"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."- tburr
"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."- Andrew Lim
"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."- Shaun Young
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dress code at n/naka?
Yes, the restaurant maintains a smart casual dress code to enhance the dining experience.
What is the best dish to try?
The entire 13-course kaiseki meal is a must-try, but the seasonal fish dishes are particularly praised.
Is parking available at n/naka?
Yes, there is limited parking available, and it's recommended to use ride-sharing services if possible.