a canto

The story

a canto: Michelin-Starred Italian Omakase in Osaka, Japan

A Personal Italian Omakase in Osaka

In the quiet Chuo-ku district of Osaka, a canto is the personal project of Chef Takashi Murata, a chef whose path to Italian cooking was forged over a decade in Italy. After training at renowned restaurants in Tuscany, including Enoteca Pinchiorri and Osteria Le Logge, Murata returned to Japan. He worked as head chef in Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka before opening his own restaurant in May 2018. The name "a canto" comes from an old Italian word meaning "alongside" — a reflection of his wish to be the place you choose when you simply want to eat delicious Italian food.

A Focus on Seasonal Ingredients and Handmade Pasta

The menu is a single omakase course, offered at both lunch and dinner. Chef Murata visits the market every morning, selecting seasonal ingredients to compose a meal that changes daily. The heart of the course is his handmade pasta, which he has spent years perfecting. Every step, from preparing the dough to cooking, is done in-house to ensure the pasta is served at its best. The restaurant's dedication to quality has been recognized with a Michelin star, a testament to the consistency and care in every dish.

An Open Kitchen and a Welcoming Space

The dining room is designed to feel open and reassuring. A counter seat looks directly into the kitchen, letting guests see the ingredients and the cooking process. The space is bright, clean, and filled with the warmth of wood, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The wine list, like the food, draws from all over Italy, offering a wide selection of grapes and regions to pair with the chef's seasonal creations.