Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten (Nara Park)

Since opening in 1959, Kamameshi Shizuka has been serving meals in two locations within Nara City during the last 60+ years. Even having established one of the best kamameshi restaurants in Nara, they continue to cook each pot of kamameshi over an open fire upon receiving each order. A long queue for lunch is a common sight at its shop in front of the Nara National Museum. Their kamameshi dishes make people willing to wait in line to try it.

This special restaurant beloved for many years offers many different recipes of kamameshi rice dishes, from year-round traditional menus to seasonal twists using the freshest ingredients. Individual kamameshi dishes come with red miso soup and pickles, while set menus include a small bowl of simmered dishes and fruits.

The most popular dish among them is the "Nara’s Seven Flavor Kamameshi," a specialty since the beginning of the restaurant. It takes about 20 minutes to arrive to the table after ordering, but as soon as the lid is opened, you will be happy to see the chunky toppings including shrimp, crab, sea eel, and young chicken. At the same time, you will be surrounded by the incredible smell of the steaming ingredients, broth, and roasted rice, which will meet your highest expectations. By the time you finish your meal, enjoying each bite, you will be so satisfied with your meal that you will not remember the long line and wait time.