The story
Inside the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern, Minamo is a jewel box of a restaurant dedicated to the art of Japanese omakase. The setting is intimate and refined, with a limited number of seats that allow guests to watch as each dish is composed before them. This is not a place for distraction, but for focused, personal dining.
Chef Yutaka Kobayashi brings a rare perspective to the counter. He spent half his career in Japan and the other half in Switzerland, a balance that informs his approach. After working in Michelin-starred kitchens in Japan and later as sushi chef at the Kempinski Hotel des Bains in St. Moritz, he joined Minamo in March 2024. Within six months, the restaurant earned 15 points from Gault&Millau; in 2025, it was awarded a Michelin star.
The cuisine is classic Japanese, built on the finest seasonal ingredients and precise technique. The omakase menu — meaning "I leave it to you" — changes with the seasons, a true expression of the chef’s skill and experience. Dishes are prepared with care and presented with an elegance that feels both traditional and personal.
Alongside the food, the restaurant offers an exceptional selection of sakes, Japanese whiskies, and high-end international wines. The combination of meticulous Japanese cooking and a serene, attentive atmosphere makes Minamo a destination for those seeking genuine craftsmanship in the heart of Lucerne.
For private occasions, Minamo offers an exclusive chef’s table experience with the same calm, elegant setting and personal omakase journey.
Recognition
Details
Location
Facebook
Instagram