Kanazawa

Kanazawa is widely regarded as the finest Japanese restaurant in Portugal and one of the most exclusive dining experiences in Lisbon. Set in the tranquil Belém neighbourhood just a kilometre from the Torre de Belém, the restaurant occupies a beautifully minimalist space with just eight seats arranged at a single wooden counter, where guests sit in full view of Chef Paulo Morais as he prepares each course. The restaurant takes its name from founder Tomoaki Kanazawa, the Japanese sushi chef who originally opened the space to serve the Japanese embassy in Lisbon before passing the kitchen to Paulo Morais, who has since dedicated three decades to mastering Japanese cuisine and the art of Edomae sushi. The menu follows the ancient ritual of kaiseki, a ceremonial multi-course style rooted in the Japanese imperial court and the tea ceremony, presenting seasonal ingredients with meticulous attention to sequence, presentation, and balance. Evenings feature up to six tasting menus of increasing complexity, showcasing superlative fish and seafood including scallop, tuna belly, turbot, and scarlet prawns, each piece of nigiri formed directly in front of diners and explained in detail by the chef. The intimacy of the counter creates a deeply personal, meditative experience unlike any other in the Portuguese capital. Awarded its first Michelin star in 2022, Kanazawa also operates as a Japanese tea room on Friday and Saturday afternoons. Advance booking, ideally a week ahead, is strongly recommended.