Kaikagetsu NYC Brings Artful Joy to LES

This fall a lovely restaurant has launched on the LES. Kaikagetsu, from Japan’s well-known restaurant group, Forrest Fooding, Inc. opened its’ first US restaurant this September.

The splendid venue is a work of art with beautiful design and glorious traditional food to match. Unique to the neighborhood comes this sophisticated landmark that is high-end in style, but completely embracing of all who walk down the street.

A project by long-time friends, Creative Director Tomoyuki Iwanami and restauranteur Yasuo Shigeta, Kaikagetsu is now open in New York’s Lower East Side. Kaikagetsu NYC ’s menu features traditional Japanese dishes taking influence from the Hida Takayama region of Japan. Both local and tourist favorites, Kaikagetsu’s other restaurants are located in Nogizaka and Yokohama. The Kaikagetsu NYC opening is among a number of upcoming hotel and restaurant projects reshaping New York’s Lower East Side.

Staying true to the Hida Takayama region of Japan, Kaikagetsu NYC’s interiors take cue of traditional and historic homes found in the Hida Takayama region of Japan. Co-Founder and Creative Director Tomoyuki Iwanami worked with Hida Takayama city officials to source authentic materials from the region to showcase in the restaurant. The passion and effort put in the project shines through from top to bottom.

To make the food and drink senses match the superb décor, head chef Tatsuya Ishizaki, Masayoshi Onishi and Sumiko Ono have come on board. All have trained extensively throughout Japan and share a lifetime of experience.

Popular fine dining entrees will incorporate traditional Hida Takayama elements and dishes including the world renowned Hida Beef and a focus on Dashi (Japanese broths). Some of Kaikagetsu’s signature menu dishes will include Hoba Yaki (meats and vegetables are put on a magnolia leaf with miso and roasted over a fire), Hida Nigiri (Hida beef sushi), and special Japanese desserts.

Sake and alcohol pairings are also offered to enhance and complete the meal experience.

In addition to the cuisine, Kaikegetsu NYC will be rolling out a formal educational component this Fall, training local NYC chefs and chefs in training in the art of Japanese cooking. The goal of the program is to help spread Japanese culture and cuisine. The experience will also give the opportunity for chefs to train at Kaikagetsu NYC and also travel abroad to experience working hands-on in Japanese kitchens.

Kaikagetsu NYC is located at 162 Orchard St, New York NY. For additional details visit KaikagetsuNyc.com.