Villa Aida

Wakayama, Japan

• No.35 Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2024

A little slice of Campania in the hills of Wakayama. Aged just 21, owner/chef Kanji Kobayashi travelled alone to Italy on a one-way ticket to learn the art of Italian cuisine. He stayed four years, before returning to his parents' farm to set up Villa Aida. Expect Italian-inspired cuisine with a twist – all dishes are made with ingredients from the local area, many of them grown by Kobayashi himself in the surrounding fields. He boasts that more than 100 varieties of vegetable can be found in nearby fields. Both regular and plant based prix fixe menus include eight savoury plates and two desserts. Watch out for the perch with black rice, olive tart and roasted persimmons.

Key Information

• Tasting menu from $304
• Lunch and dinner: Mon – Sun
• Visit Villa Aida's Website

Location

71-5 Kawajiri, Iwade-shi, Wakayama, 649-6231