Kappou Ninomiya

At number 4 via Fra Galgario, just steps from piazzale Gambara, stands Kappou Ninomiya, a restaurant bearing a surname already well known in Milan’s Japanese dining scene: that of Yoshikazu Ninomiya. Following his time at Fukurou, the chef-owner presents a fresh take on Japanese gastronomy where Kaiseki, Izakaya and Omakase traditions come together in the ‘Kappou’ philosophy – Japanese for ‘Cut and Cooked’ – through a menu structured by cooking method. Let chef Ninomiya guide you on a journey celebrating Japanese culinary tradition through the authentic flavours, aromas and colours of Oita, Fukuoka and Tokyo, delivering a memorable dining experience in Milan.

The setting at Kappou Ninomiya is true to Japanese culture in its aesthetic as well, built around an essential harmony between space and food that creates a distinctive sensory atmosphere. The dining room is intimate, marked by natural light wood, warm lighting and minimalist tables and chairs. In line with the ‘Kappou’ philosophy, the room is compact and accommodates only a few covers, with seating and the kitchen sharing the same area. As in Japan’s most authentic restaurants, guests can watch the chef craft each dish with meticulous skill and precision behind the spectacular open counter.

The menu at Kappou Ninomiya offers traditional Japanese cuisine, built on prime ingredients and a rich choice of classic dishes. The lunch menu includes the Jubako – a distinctive Bento Box where the main course comes with miso soup, a daily bite and salted vegetables –, featuring a delicious roast of Wagyu cat. A5 served over rice; Teishoku, a traditional Japanese set meal where all dishes are served together; and three ramen options: Shio, Tonkotsu and Tantanmen. The latter is prepared with minced pork, leeks, pak choi, chilli oil and Sichuan pepper.

The dinner menu broadens the selection with further specialities such as tasty Zensai starters – featuring a variety of raw dishes –, Sashimi, Nigiri and Maki. The list continues with cooked options: Yakimono – grilled and griddled mains with rockfish, amberjack and eel –, Onmono – boiled and braised dishes –, Agemono – irresistible crispy fried items – and Menmono – Udon and Soba. The restaurant also caters to those with a sweet tooth, offering authentic treats such as Ichigo Daifuku alongside surprising desserts like Tiramisù al matcha.

A corner of Japan to discover and experience in west Milan, showcasing the true flavours of Japanese gastronomy. Kappou Ninomiya is the ideal address for anyone seeking traditional Asian cooking, capable of transporting heart and palate straight to Japan in a single bite.

photo credit: kappou-ninomiya.com