Gyoshintei - Nikko
Gyoshintei
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I had scouted out Gyoshintei on my trip to Nikko as I only eat shojin ryori when I travel; at first, I had a little difficulty finding it in Google Maps, but as I walked through maple-lined paths dripping with rain, I felt like I’d stumbled into a magical oasis. The building is set in a clearing in the woods, with small bonsai trees out front. Inside, it is a traditional Japanese restaurant with tatami (but chairs, so don’t worry about sitting on the floor). I was the only guest at that time of day; I had the shojin bento box only offered at lunch. It included tempura, Koyadofu, gomadofu and veggies served different ways. Dessert was a squash yokan. Absolutely delicious and beautiful meal and interior, I was not rushed at all and enjoyed looking out over the beautiful garden.
Traditional and beautiful. not so easy to find because it is located within a small and beautiful neighbourhood that is not very full of signs. very traditional. they were friendly enough to read my vegan card and let me know the meal course in the menu that worked for me. (shiojin ryojri 12 meal). yes. it's expensive, but totally worth it because it's one time in a lifetime Japanese experience that they don't have anywhere else.
We went there after we visited the tempel and this place not disappointed! it was a bit complicated to find, but we came there at the end (we circled around the neighboring houses). the lady led us to a table where we sat in full on the garden and the bonsais. we were the only customers. I chose the vegan shijin ryori. my friend took the equivalent with some fish dishes. it was perhaps one of the quietest meal I've experienced. I had feared that I had still starved at the end, but I was very satisfied there. yuba is apparently a specificity of the region and was served on various wise. we also go several refills of two different tees that were both excellent. Do not miss this when they are in nikko. is important that they accept card payments. the dame was also very soothing and announced the most important ingredients of each teller and told me that no fish every time they put a plate in front of me.
Nice n cool experience, but for me and my friend this was not for us. I may literally imagine any vegan meal, but this felt like going through an oral, last thing they want when hungry. Although I suspect is a delicate and experience in a beautiful environment, they treat it like a game!
Gyoshintei was an exquisite experience. Located near the Rinno-ji temple, hidden amoung a confusing labyrinth of beautiful garden paths, the reataurant is a tranquil oasis in the sometimes crowded Nikko tourist scene. The setting alone is worth the experience: sliding screens, tatami floors, kimono costumed servers, Japanese customs and manners, and a wall of sliding glass doors opening on a serene garden. This is an experience to be slowly savored. Both vegan set options provide an ample number of plates, all delightful. Take your time and enjoy the subtle variety of flavors. The presentation is itself a feast for the senses. The meals are not inexpensive, but if expense is an issue, it's well worth saving up for this treat. I don't think you will regret it. By the way, ring the bell at the entrance for the hostess. You'll know you've found the right place when you see the entrance curtain with the three piece crown emblem. It would also help to get the tourist information people to trace out your route on one of their free maps. Don't hesitate to ask. Otherwise you might spend some time searching.