I’m going to introduce three well-known restaurants that exhibit a Japanese taste among the many theme restaurants that continue to pop up. There’s no question you will be surprised by the unique culture of the Heian era and the Sengoku period exhibited within these interiors. These businesses boast high level dishes and are easy access in Shinjuku. Definitely visit these places if you are in the mood for dinner with a little more flavor.

 

 

Kyomachi Koishigure Honkan; an interior filled with Kyoto style elegance

Kyomachi Koishigure Honkan has a theme based on Kyoto, a precious place within Japanese culture. The world’s leading business district of Shinjuku can boast of this large structure filled with the essence of the old capital inside. The passage seen from the entrance is designed to look like “Gojo Bridge”, the place Minamoto no Yoshitsune met Benkei. Other areas of the restaurants were designed in homage to the “Kiyomizu Stage” and Kyoto’s main street of “Ponto-cho”.

 

 

The interior is a perfect fusion of retro and modern atmospheres

One section of the restaurant seating is designed to resemble the riverside restaurant seating that is enjoyed in Kyoto.

Wherever you look, you can see signs and furniture decorating the interior that were bought at antique markets. The real antique flavor creates a chic atmosphere and becomes an accent to the room. Seating where you can truly relax is available, such as private rooms for couples that overlook the courtyard garden, rooms with modern chandeliers and a sofa, etc. If time is important, it’s best to make a reservation.

 

 

Smack your lips at a menu based on Kyoto Cuisine

Here they present a creative menu where some playfulness has been added to traditional Kyoto cuisine, starting with the simple flavors and charm of “Obanzai assortment of 5 (small dishes)” (1200 yen), Kyoto dishes eaten in the home. You will find satisfaction in the natural, mild flavor of the base ingredients which are carefully drawn out with dashi (soup stock). There is a variety of sake available that enhances the flavor of these Japanese dishes.

 

＜Kyomachi Koishigure Honkan＞
Musashino Kaikan 6F, 3-27-10 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN
TEL： +(81)3-5360-7644

 

Sengoku Buyuden; puts the rivalry of warlords in the spotlight

Enjoy the feeling of being lost in the battle front at “Sengoku Buyuden”, which draws inspiration from the riotous Sengoku period. Custom armor and helmets of Sanada Yukimura, Date Masamune, Maeda Keiji, and Uesugi Kenshin, legendary figures from the Sengoku period stand in the entrance, surprising guests.

 

 

The room projects the turning point of the Sengoku Period with Honno-ji, Sekigahara, etc.

The interior of the restaurant is separated into 4 sections that are named with different themes like the “Honno-ji Incident” and “Siege of Osaka”. Generals from the East and West gather from the 11 private rooms to the 50 seat dining area for participation in the “Battle of Sekigahara, the decisive battle”. Ishida Mitsunari and Tokugawa Ieyasu motifs also make an appearance.

 

 

Be on the watch for unique dishes associated with battle and military

he essence of Sengoku has also been poured into the menu.

You can appreciate the flavors of “seiro mushi” (steamed ingredients in a bamboo basket) with vapor that rises like a beacon symbol or “seiro meshi” (steamed rice) using famous ingredients from the region connected to a famous general.

“Date Masamune – The One-Eyed Dragon’s Fresh Judgement – Sashimi” (assortment of 5 / 1480 yen, assortment of 3 / 980 yen). The fresh fish selected for this dish are done so with a discerning eye, much like that of the One-Eyed Dragon Masamune’s sharp eye. There is a wide variety of alcohol available, such as shochu chosen from the states of Sengoku Commanders and local sake with connection to Oda Nobunaga and Chosokabe Motochika.

 

＜Sengoku Buyuden＞
T-wing Building 4F, 1-6-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN
TEL：+(81)3-3209-2277

Nanairo Temari Uta; a cute atmosphere with feminine appeal

Nanairo Temari Uta was designed to reflect the world of “temari”, a toy made within the royal court of the Heian era. The interior is organized into 2 rooms, “temari” created in the Heian era and everybody’s Edo era. Many are sure to be fascinated by the gorgeous and sophisticated charm that flows throughout the interior.

 

An abundant variety of guest seating in various scenes

You can choose the best seat for the occasion, there’s the unique atmosphere of individual rooms in the shape of “temari” balls or the more sophisticated counter seats. Devised to meet a variety of needs, all tables have gentle lighting and a beautiful color scheme.

 

 

The excellence and appearance of the cuisine is sure to encourage conversation

The must-eat item on this menu is the “7 Color Temari-zushi” (An assortment of 7 for 1800 yen and 5 for 1200 yen). The sushi is a little on the small side, but with brightly colored and fresh ingredients, this is a dish sure to satisfy your tongue and eyes.

 

＜Nanairo Temari Uta＞

Humax Pavilion Shinjuku East Exit 5F, 3-28-10 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN

TEL：+(81)3-3226-8070

 

 

Traditional Japanese culture and history is cultivated into a globally loved taste.

 

Japanese aesthetics are blended with modern components to provide a style that is highly rated all over the globe. With fair prices, whichever restaurant you go to, be it first timers to Japan or repeat visitors, anyone can freely enjoy these experiences.

 

 

 

Edit & Text：K. Sachio

 

＜PROFILE＞

Editor and writer.Works in fashion magazines and many other genres such as culture, gourmet, etc.

A person who loves animals, family, and has a hardcore sweet tooth.