Kamakura • Boston

Owner, and executive chef Youji Iwakura brings a brand-new, authentic taste of niche Japan to the Boston area. A project two years in the making, Kamakura – named for and inspired by his home-town in Japan – features nouvelle washoku bistro-fare.

The restaurant sources fresh, local ingredients that emphasize the seasonal importance of washoku and kaiseki – a tradition of intricate, refined small plates that highlight the artful display of each dish, not only its flavor. Kamakura has several dining experiences – such as an intimate dinner alongside the chef at the first-floor kaiseki bar. At Kumo, which means ‘cloud’ in Japanese, this special restaurant offers an afternoon Matcha Tea Time for guests, with Japanese tea paired with sweet and savory seasonal creations.

Visit: 150 State Street, Boston, MA; 617-377-4588; kamakuraboston.com