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Experience Authentic Japanese Fine Dining—Now Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly
In response to Japan’s growing demand for dietary diversity and global tourism trends, Hotel New Otani Tokyo has officially launched a new plant-based kaiseki menu at its renowned Japanese restaurant, KATO’S DINING & BAR, starting March 26, 2025.
Set in the heart of Tokyo, this elegant culinary experience allows guests—regardless of dietary restrictions—to savor the refined flavors of Japanese cuisine, prepared entirely without animal products.
A New Era of Inclusive Washoku Dining
As Japan looks toward welcoming over 40 million inbound travelers in the coming years, interest in plant-based dining options is rapidly rising. According to recent estimates from the Japan Tourism Agency, over 5% of international visitors to Japan identify as vegetarian or vegan—and that number is expected to grow.
Hotel New Otani, known for hosting world leaders during major international summits and banquets, has long been a pioneer in embracing food diversity. Their commitment is reflected in previous efforts, such as serving ZENB noodles made from 100% yellow peas and offering a variety of plant-based dishes at their Tower Restaurant buffet.
Now, with the launch of their Vegetarian and Vegan Kaiseki Courses, they continue this legacy—offering all guests the opportunity to experience the delicate balance, beauty, and taste of traditional washoku without compromise.
What’s on the Menu? A Celebration of Japan’s Seasonal Bounty
Crafted with seasonal vegetables, legumes, grains, and traditional Japanese culinary techniques, both the Vegetarian and Vegan Kaiseki menus feature seven beautifully presented dishes. Here’s a taste of what to expect:
Vegetarian Kaiseki Menu (7-course)
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Steamed Dish: Creamy soy milk-based chawanmushi (Japanese egg custard) topped with a seasonal vegetable sauce
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Fried Dish: Crisp and colorful vegetable tempura
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Sushi: Rolled sushi made with seven different vegetables
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Main Dish: Tofu steak glazed with a house-made soy sauce featuring grated apple and kuromitsu (Japanese black sugar syrup)
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Grilled Dish: Ratatouille of seasonal vegetables, roasted in a traditional earthen pot for depth and aroma
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Noodle or Rice: Choose from inaniwa udon (thin Japanese wheat noodles) or vegetable sushi
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Dessert: Seasonal fruits or a refreshing vegan-friendly sweet
Vegan Kaiseki Menu
All dishes are fully plant-based. The steamed dish is replaced with a vibrant cold starter, featuring fruit tomatoes and greens drizzled with house-made wasabi dressing. The rest of the course closely mirrors the vegetarian menu, ensuring all guests can enjoy the full kaiseki experience, vegan-style.
A Memorable Culinary Experience Awaits
The highlight of both courses is the tofu steak, which is crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Finished with a sweet-savory glaze of soy sauce, black sugar, and apple purée, it perfectly captures the umami essence of Japanese cuisine—without using any animal products.
Each dish is designed to showcase the natural umami of plant-based ingredients while preserving the harmony and aesthetics of traditional Japanese kaiseki.
Reservation Details
KATO’S DINING & BAR, 6F Garden Court, Hotel New Otani Tokyo
Lunch 11:30–13:30 (L.O.) / Dinner 17:00–19:30 (L.O.)
Price: ¥12,000 per person (excluding service charge)
Reservations & Inquiries: 03-3221-2857 (direct)
Please note: Menu items may change depending on ingredient availability.
See Also
Michelin-Starred Kosher Kaiseki at Kyoto’s “Honke Tankuma Honten”
