N/Naka

Stepping into N/Naka feels like entering a world where time moves differently. This Palms neighborhood gem, helmed by Chef Niki Nakayama, delivers a kaiseki experience that transcends typical fine dining. The intimate space features a beautiful tsubo-niwa—a miniature indoor Japanese garden—that sets the tone for an evening of refined elegance. What truly sets this restaurant apart is the seamless choreography of the service team, many of whom have been here since the doors opened in 2011.

The 13-course kaiseki journey masterfully weaves between traditional preparations and unexpected innovations. The zensai platter alone could justify the visit—seven impeccably crafted bites including squid tempura and a mushroom tartlet so perfect you’ll mourn its absence. But the hits keep coming: pristine sashimi that rivals the city’s best sushi bars, steamed black cod so silky it practically dissolves into its miso broth, and the legendary mentaiko spaghetti that has anchored the menu from the beginning. Each dish arrives with precise timing, fresh utensils appearing before you even realize you need them.

This is an investment—both financially and in the effort required to secure a reservation. Sunday reservation drops are fiercely competitive, and the $365 per-person price tag (before drinks, tax, and tip) places N/Naka among LA’s most expensive dining experiences. But for those who appreciate the art of kaiseki, the meticulous attention to detail, and service that anticipates your every need, it delivers an experience that few restaurants can match.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, N/Naka rewards patience and commitment with a meal you won’t soon forget. The hours slip by effortlessly as course after course unfolds, leaving you satisfied but never overwhelmed. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why fine dining, done right, can be truly transformative.