International Special Awards 2021EstablishmentInternational selection

Yanagiya

Masashi Yamada

Gifu, Japan

Website

Artisan & Authenticity Award

Restaurants promoting the culinary heritage of its region or country through skill, produce and sourcing

It’s more than 70 years since the Yamada family opened Yanagiya in the town of Mizunami in the mountains of Gifu. Masashi Yamada and his brother, the third generation of chefs, still use the irori, a small square pit for grilling skewers. When in season, the Yamadas serve game from the mountains. First, in November, there’s duck, then wild boar in December. Spring is the season for freshwater trout. A little paradise on earth and a journey back in time.