Foodies Asia (en)For "foodies" who are particular about food.

In the Takayama Yataimura, a bistro that has rapidly gained popularity.

It proudly proclaims itself as a natural wine restaurant and has become an essential French dining spot in Takayama.

Ave. Budget: Lunch 2,000-3,000 JPY, Dinner 5,000-7,000 JPY / ‘gault-millau 2023’ POP

Restaurant features

A chef who honed his skills at popular French restaurants in Takayama.

While the foundation of his cuisine is conventional French bistro, his emphasis on “natural cuisine” and the use of locally sourced ingredients give his dishes a unique character.

Hailing from Okuhida’s Nakao Highland in Takayama, he has been familiar with gathering mountain vegetables and other foraged goods since childhood. His close ties to hunters also make game dishes his specialty.

The restaurant is located in Dekonaru Yokocho, an area near the famous Yatai Village. I

t’s an interesting spot that serves as a stepping stone for young talents. Succeeding here often leads to upgrading to a permanent establishment, a trend well-established in Takayama.

I’ve personally been visiting Dekonaru Yokocho about once every three months lately, and I noticed that some of my favorite places have disappeared. When I inquired at a nearby shop, I was often told, “Oh, they’ve opened a restaurant in ○○ Town.”

To the bistro that will shape the next era of Takayama.

This “Nature” restaurant opened in December 2021 and has been listed in the POP category of the Gault et Millau 2023 guide, solidifying its position as a notable French restaurant in Takayama.

With a casual bar-like atmosphere, you order from the daily chalkboard menu.

The wine selection ranges from orange wines by the glass.

Their creasy salad comes from a secret spot in his hometown, Nakao Highland, and pairs well with wine.

They offer a fresh spring onion potage, followed by a robust red wine, a Nebbiolo d’Alba from Northern Italy’s Piedmont region.

As a limited menu item, they serve roasted fawn, specifically the tenderloin.

It’s well-prepared, free from any gamey flavors, and boasts a smooth texture.

While it proudly proclaims itself a natural wine restaurant and adopts the name “Nature,” the relaxed atmosphere of the Yatai Village area makes the term “down-to-earth” more fitting for this restaurant. However, it seems they are considering opening a shop in the city soon. The owner says, “Next time you visit Takayama, we might not be here,” hinting at their future plans. That’s something to look forward to.

Menu

【À la carte: Examples】
“Hida Field Salad” ¥1,400
“Bagna Cauda” ¥1,600
“Dried Persimmon and Venison Terrine” ¥1,800
“Hida Venison Roti” ¥3,800
“Former Maritime Self-Defense Force Hida Beef Navy Curry” ¥1,400
And more

【Set Menus】
Lunch Set Menu” ¥2,500
“Dinner Set Menu” ¥4,500

【Drinks: Examples】
“Glass of Wine” ¥700 and up
“Draft Beer” ¥700 and up
“Homemade Ginger Ale” ¥550

*The menu and prices are provided for reference only. Please keep in mind that they may change depending on the season and the availability of ingredients.

How to make a reservation

Reservations can be made by phone

Map/Access

Approximately 9 minutes walk from Takayama Station on the JR Takayama Main Line

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