Umenohana THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Umenohana

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Umenohana

443 N. Cañon Dr. (Santa Monica Blvd.)
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310-860-9236
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Cuisine: Japanese
The first American location of an upscale Japanese chain specializes in bean curd-based dishes served as the elegant progression of small dishes known as kaiseki.
Openings: Lunch & Dinner daily

Features


THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Umenohana Restaurant Review:


The first U.S. branch of an established upscale Japanese chain, Umenohana specializes is tofu and yuba (tofu skin) dishes, served kaiseki-style---a multi-course progression of exquisite little bites of food. Don't let that lead you to believe, however, that you're in for an austere vegetarian experience. Reflecting the seasonal variety that is traditionally a highlight of kaiseki, and no doubt partly in response to the wariness of an upscale Beverly Hills clientele, this comfortable, low-key, elegantly decorated restaurant includes mouthfuls of meat (including Kobe-style beef) and seafood (scallop ceviche, bamboo-steamed lobster, steamed sea bass, jewel-like morsels of sushi) among the extensive progression of bean curd creations. We find the latter most beguiling, especially silken fresh tofu simmered on an induction burner right at the table and delicate, juicy steamed tofu shu mai dumplings. The non-tofu proteins, however, can sometimes seem workmanlike but lackluster, as if produced largely in deference to Western tastes rather than from culinary passion. The smartest way to dine here is with one of the relatively good-value prix-fixe menus, rather than ordering piecemeal à la carte, thus opening up your budget for one of the excellent saké options.