The Most Legendary 3-Michelin Star Restaurant in Japan

[@alvinzhoufilms]

Fun fact: this video file was 130 GB and took 38 hours to upload Fun fact #2: My translator and I were hungry during the shoot so we went to a nearby 7/11 and got some packaged fried chicken bites to snack on during some down time. Okami-san (the proprietress) saw us eating outside through the window and immediately insisted that we come up inside to sit down in one of their private, beautiful dining rooms to eat. We were trying to finish quickly (this was also finger food), so we said that wouldn't be necessary, as we wanted to just down something quick before getting back to shooting. Nevertheless, she basically ushered us into a wonderful room upstairs, where her staff had already laid out 2 cups of green tea, warm hand towels, placemats, chopsticks, and an entire table setting for two people - with our tiny plastic 7-11 fried chicken packets in the middle. It was one of the funniest, yet most impactful memories from our time at Kikunoi. If that doesn't speak volumes about their hospitality, well...

[@jet3272]

Thanks for making this video

[@ShedletskyEdits]

38 hours is insane

[@pz1590]

The proprietress (owner's wife) is certainly a kind lady. Her explanation of how each room is set as well as the flower arrangement based on each occasion are proof of their craftmanship.

[@n1k0n_]

What did you shoot on?

[@Blankspot101]

Beautiful piece of art Alvin

[@Aus__10]

I had the privilege of doing a culinary internship here. All of these chefs are the real deal. They work so hard. Long hours and dedication. Glad they got some recognition. Shout out to Tsuji San , Yosuke San, Tomohiro chan , Sakura San , and Katsuya San for their kindness while I was there. Miss you guys. 頑張ってください

[@Lividbuffalo]

Did you start your own restaurant?

[@OutOfMySystem]

I liked that line about them starting their own restaurants very much.

[@Jorg05111980]

What hours did you have to make there?

[@suschilegge1683]

Happy for you! Hope you made some good memories and learned

[@johnathanmartinez2806]

I just started culinary school how do I go here?

[@littleknight6949]

i love how this is not only a restaurant but also a school. that is such as good way to go round keeping chefs trained and helping more people get into this sector

[@jtorola]

Fuck that. Living in a dorm for 5 years?! Japans perfection culture is fucking stupid. Live an enjoyable life.. you only get one.

[@PervyOldToadSage]

Ive never heard of a restaurant having a campus, let alone the training program taking 7 years just to reach chef de partie. That is like medical school level training 😅. What the hell. Fascinating but terrifying.

[@HexaDecimus]

@@PervyOldToadSage i guess you can think of it as like an apprenticeship, earning while you learn. Also graduating from such a prestigious restaurant can certainly aid in future employment.

[@PervyOldToadSage]

@@HexaDecimus Oh for sure. No doubt you would be a beast after that training.

[@SmolFenFen]

I love the owner's confidence too. It might seem like arrogance, but it is just experience. Don't judge older generations if they seem arrogant, listen and learn. They have earned that confidence through years and years of experience. The ability to remain calm and actually listen is powerful.

[@Flazius]

Everything about this video made me happy. The respect from everyone, the respect for the craft, the respect for the customers, the respect for nature and seasons, the respect for Alvin and the translator, the respect for us as a viewer. Sublime effort all around. What an experience.

[@darkpyro786]

I think you meant sublime and not subliminal unless I'm mistaken haha

[@huntakilla1234]

The production value of Alvin's video is always freakin mind blowing. This place is so beautiful. I can see why they won 3 Michelin stars.

[@zacharyevans8489]

Right? I thought there was a full company behind this video the way it was so well done!

[@sianwarwick633]

When I think about the strain and difficulty other chefs have around the world, and their goals to achieve Michelin rating... I see this restaurant, chef, education, business, and realise it's a different idea of reaching a goal, as other people have suggested in their comments

[@reikaratnam]

Overhyped as usual check out thier negative reviews on maps. Slavery at its finest

[@henlolneh]

not going to lie this was better than 90% of the chefs table episodes that have been released thus far. i love how you let the chef/owner narrate throughout this and tell his story.

[@AnUumi388]

Wake up babe our favorite culinary documentarian is back with another stunning film and artistically crafted deep-dive into the heart of the industry! 💗

[@IamHerbie]

Could not have said it better myself

[@pz1590]

Well said.

[@kur0suto]

Mines told me to leave her the fuck alone

[@fakerealalbert3128]

I think this is your best one yet, Alvin. It's not just that you get 26 minutes of the Platonic ideal of food photography, it's that you as you get to the end, the food almost makes you want to cry for the unbelievable passion and hard work that you've shown in every fragment of each dish. You're doing amazing work, and it breaks my heart that youtube as a platform just does not reward this type of art as much as it should, but I pray it'll continue.

[@basvanheun7279]

I got literal chills down my body from the production quality of this one Alvin… wow. Netflix and the broadcastworld are nothing compared to your productions. Keep up the great work!

[@mm-sp4pr]

theres a reason why shorts have become so popular, people's attention spans are short. You just have a few seconds to snag their attention, and then another few seconds to keep them invested enough to sit through the video. I think the reason why ur vids are so popular is that we get to see all the players involved, not just the head honcho. You try to showcase all the qualities, all the minor details that makes a place special. The cinematography, the music is just something that resonates deeply with me. I dont even know whens the last time i sat through a youtube video without skipping it, be it adverts or boring parts. But I honestly watched through this entire video and I didnt feel irritated, in fact it soothed me. its really magic what you guys do.

[@VanPham-]

Cannot agree more. 20 mins just flew by without me realizing it. The video is just so captivating

[@Smurkylling]

What a great chef. The speech about years/months learning to ride a bike, but focusing on the destination was a really inspiring

[@psidvicious]

That also stuck out to me. An employer that appreciates and understands that people learn at different rates is a very insightful quality. Sometimes your best learners are not always the fastest learners.

[@jody024]

Immense contrast to what we see from leading chefs in Western Kitchens.

[@meme_ahmed842]

The frames, the cuts, the level of detail is unmatched in a Alvin Zhou production. In two words we call this, "absolute cinema".

[@Charleswonder12]

saying "that's hella good" in a 3-Michelin star restaurant is diabolical 🤣🤣💀

[@alvinzhoufilms]

I said what I said

[@gjl4101]

At least bro didn't say it was bussing

[@RogerRoger-bk1pi]

Quite right. It ruined the ambiance. A beautiful film, overall.

[@IIIIIllllIII]

​@@RogerRoger-bk1pi Haha yeah I was thinking the same. It was a big contrast to the peaceful style of the documentary and professional environment but I wouldn't go that far saying it ruined the ambiance. It added some personal style

[@anovosedlik]

ikr was thinking the same exact thing!

[@F0XD1E]

I love that you take your time with these and do not just churn out weekly. Each one is an award worthy documentary.

[@kingdavid_tech]

It should be said, these films are not just films or works of art. They are love letters to people, to culture, to food, to living, to finding meaning in the little things. Alvin, you have a gift, a vision. The world is your canvas and your camera is your brush. So keep painting and writing these letters so no one ever forgets what the world holds. How cooking can give meaning and purpose all on a simple plate. ❤

[@Xenorous_]

Honestly, this felt like getting an look into someone's life that you will probably never meet but coming out the end understanding how they've lived and who they were. While leaving you with a sense of admiration and awe for how they've lived as person.

[@MelancholicDays]

alvin's videos always have such high production value it's insane. productions like these require a certain level of curiousity, sensitivity and knowledge. in certain ways it exceeds productions that hundreds of people work on for movies. take the 20:30~22:00 sequence for example. letting natural light from the garden light the food up but not blind the viewer. high angle downward shots for dipping sauces, low angles for smoke rising off the grilled dishes. timing the shot to capture the first time the cover is lifted off the soup. knowing when to add music to supplement, and when to let the ambient sounds of the background carry the shot. a shot is not just a shot, it's a scene and every scene in the video has a focus and is meaningful, even the transmission shots. whether it's a quirky quip from the cooks, or the setup of the scrolls, or the beautiful gardens that thing gets it's moment to shine.

[@alvinzhoufilms]

you get it (:

[@MelancholicDays]

@@alvinzhoufilms I sure did, it was a pleasure to witness mastery of craft, in both cooking and video production. Thanks for sharing this with us :)

[@thee_certified_silly_guy]

WHEN THE WORLD NEEDED HIM MOST HE CAME BACK TO FEED OUR EYES AND HEARTS ❤

[@Dita_Utomo]

That end scene tho, where the lady bows the guests off, somehow it warms my heart. Alvin manages the capture the essence of this place, I feel. Great job Alvin, absolutely beautiful video 👏

[@9xixix9]

Somehow the story, the people, the attention to detail, and the beautifully shot 26min video moved me to tears. This is what we are here to do, to be creative, to share our talents, to serve one another with the utmost dedication and honour for one another. Thank you for this.

[@itisanoku5917]

Alvinのファンです。 菊乃井は日本料理の最高峰、菊乃井の調理場に入って撮影できた事はとても凄い事だと思います。 村田さんこそ日本の料理界の重鎮だと思います。 素晴らしいビデオをありがとう！

[@linhl4710]

Watching this made me feel: If Denmark has Noma, Japan has Kikunoi. Another beautiful ensemble of pure art, Alvin. Thank you for your creation! Cannot wait for your next release :)

[@randarth9573]

I genuinely look forward to these. All of your documentaries feel like they take you on a journey into a world of cooking that you either never new existed, or deepens your understanding of an area of cooking you didn't know much about. Can't wait for the next one.

[@Jakerbox]

this... might be the greatest video - food-related or not - I've ever watched on KZbin. it is so clear that you care so much about showing these people's passion for their work, the beauty of their creations, and the joy they get from serving their customers. it's what hospitality is all about, and nobody showcases it quite like you, Alvin.

[@mydogisbailey]

Japanese have impeccable taste in style and design. Everything is so balanced and beautiful

[@mohsinopiani]

Not ashamed to say I became emotional watching this video. Everything is simply perfect and beautiful. Felt a bit of regret and envy because I will probably never get to experience anything like this in my lifetime. I never truly understood the meaning of Kaizen until I saw this video. The Japanese people love what they do and it shows. Amazing work from everyone.

[@drlinid]

Probably one of the best documentaries on kaiseki ever, even more amazing that you were able to feature one of the most famous kaiseki restaurants in Japan at that!

[@majkucina2935]

this is the first culinary video to make me tear up, and i cry very rarely. what a spiritual experience this restaurant is.

[@MsYipster]

This video was so well-done. It showed the human side and truly shows finding joy, peace, and calm in such a hectic environment. I love seeing how fun and silly the head chef is. The love and care they put into their craft. The way they packed the left-over rice for their customer, was such a memorable moment for me in the film. Thank you for sharing the story of this restaurant.

[@mrbxv]

Incredible video. My family visited Japan for the first time and I am simply in awe of the culture. This video showcases why the Japanese excel at taking something and making it better. Food is an expression of culture and this video features how people in Japan have so much pride in their work. Bravo. We can’t wait to go back to Japan.

[@biggyb9864]

One of my most memorable dining experiences. I had fallen in love with his cookbook and the next time I went to Kyoto, my mother and I were fortunate enough to get a seating through our hotel concierge. I remember it was downpouring that day. Every moment of our experience there lives with me to this day. Chef was kind enough to sign my menu.

[@timc5077]

Dude the cinematography, the editing, the footage, like everything about the video is so superb and serene. I tend to like 2x speed a lot of the videos I watch but this was different just taking the video as it is no speeding up or skipping 10 seconds. Another dub for Alvin

[@aaahhhaaaaaa]

Best restaurant documentary I have ever seen. The editing was masterfully balanced between perfectly curated shots of work in the kitchen, the dishes, the suppliers, and more casual shots like being given tea and the family meal. The music was really nice, creating a great ambiance and having its moments, but blending into the background noise when necessary. The formula of not showing any questions being asked in the formal shots also works really well.

[@rightender5178]

The dishwasher is the true hero. Backbone of a restaurant.

[@gouthamkm7510]

Japan is country where they respect everything they do put all they got in work. There work ethic & hospitality is off charts I love japan

[@drazalin]

FINALLY!!!!!! honestly, I can't wait to see more of your videos. Always have such great soul and feel.

[@ParkityParkPark]

I absolutely love the energy your style of videos brings. In watching each and every one of them I'm always filled with a sense of peace and appreciation. Something about your approach to everything from the cinematography and music choices to your direction and even font choices makes everything feel simultaneously so simple and exciting. You capture the essence of learning something new and listening to someone describe something they love, and I think it's absolutely criminal that you don't have a bigger following.

[@sidchuownz]

The closing music choice could not have been more perfect. Beautifully uplifting. Paired with such an incredible and powerful message, so heartwarming. And, finally, the bow at the end in the darkness next to bamboos. I teared up because of how touching this was. Thank you.

[@CallumsFrenchyVids]

This video has reaffirmed my belief that Alvin is at the very pinnacle of the culinary documentary scene. Simply outstanding in every aspect.

[@artonion420]

This video is so much better made than any of the Netflix shows or the usual sappy stuff. This is the real deal. Thank you so much for making this.

[@voutzify]

Alvin, everything about this is beautiful. That year of working on this video was well spent. It was a huge pleasure to view it. Thank you very much for sharing it.

[@OliverFace]

The staff are the most wholesome group of people I have ever seen in a kitchen. So sweet.

[@ynkh112]

As a cook professionally myself I thoroughly enjoy this film. The restaurant hospitality, mentorship and the chef philosophy made me want dine and experience their take on traditional Japanese cuisine at three Michelin stars level.

[@connorkwan2112]

Literal chills. All the way from when they started bringing out the food, to the end of the video. Fantastic work Alvin.

[@elmariachi112]

As a fellow chef, witnessing the level of dedication everyone puts into their work is astonishing. The production delivery is also outstanding. Thank you.

[@Harry-x4n]

I just returned from Kyoto, I didn't go here as I'm broke. But your film managed to capture the atmosphere and reverence that the Japanese seem to have for nature that I can't even put to words. Just absolutely stunning. Brought me right back. The whole concept of a garden estate for a Restaurant. I could live the rest of my life there and never get bored. Beautiful.

[@justani]

良い素材に良い料理。この映像もまさにそうです。 緑が多くて目にも快適。ありがとう🍵

[@themangofandango]

This one made me cry. What a beautiful thing. What a beautiful little place full of good in a world that can be so hard. Thank you for showing it to us.

[@aerendyr_draekh5709]

This might be one of the most beautiful videos I've ever seen. The lighting, framing, and cuts were all delicate and pristine. Thank you for your hard work

[@niko.nixxxx]

loved this! i enjoy the concept that the first years cook the food for the other chefs. the scenes were captured nicely. can't wait for more future videos.

[@d_isaac21]

I spend my days watching SO many videos about different cultures cuisines. Japanese culture has always been so unique to me in how much passion and effort they put into EVERYTHING. No matter what it is. This has to be hands down one of the most beautifully produced videos I’ve watched in a long time. Not only does his food tell a story but the video you’ve put together helped me feel like I was on that journey myself. Bravo.

[@srgmhmm]

These shots at 12:50-on are so perfectly placed and shot

[@joym6531]

What I love about Alvin’s videos is that the thumbnails and titles always make you think it’s going to be about the food, but his true intention is to showcase the people behind the food, and not just the ones whose names are usually credited for the restaurant’s success but everyone who takes part in it. I really love how Alvin matches their passion for food with his own passion to portray them so beautifully.

[@anagalan7834]

chef kiss 🤌🏻!! Thank you Alvin ❤️

[@darteris7188]

The serene setting and atmosphere alone is calming in nature. The delicacies that are served must be on a divine level. What an amazing culture and place to develop and at the same time, cherish. The respect and playful banter among the owner and his clientele is heart warming and you can tell that they have formed a bond over several years. Thank you for this epic journey, I can only dream of being in a place such as this.

[@random7618]

This production quality is crazy, the restaurant also looks fantastic

[@johnbang8]

This is by far the best KZbin Video I have ever seen in my entire life. Dude, your skills are expanding the universe! Thank you for this kind of content!

[@222supersilver]

This is on of the most high quality videos I've ever watched on KZbin. I recognize that a lot of work goes into each and every video, but PLEASE PLEASE never stop doing what you're doing here. I love it.

[@giyuutomioka6719]

i randomly saw this video on my feed and this is one of the most beautifully pieced together videos ive ever watched from the camera work to the music to editing even the subtitles i was really captivated for the entirety of the video there wasnt a second where my attention was directed towards something else you probably wont see this but thank you for giving me such an experience

[@antonioavanzini4024]

This is my second comment on KZbin but I couldn’t resist. This is one of the best videos I have ever seen!!! Please make more of that, this is amazing!

[@seanchua3725]

If the slow rate of your video production is because you wanna prioritise such immaculate quality, I (and many others around the world) bloody approve it! Thank you for your hard work!🎉❤

[@Samsanity]

22:16 "Please bring your adult wallet, but your child's heart" 😂

[@ivanhenderson31]

My wallet will still cry like a 2 year old😂

[@DpanditaB]

Goodness i am blown away. The Cinematography, the editing is bloody brilliant. It's simply art. Also 38 hours? INSANE!!!!!! Thank you for for giving us viewers the best of the best films. ALSO, I am in awe of the craftsmanship, the precision, dedication and the care all the chefs put into their cooking. The whole Process is very beautiful to see.

[@adamhill1627]

This is the most incredible video I’ve ever watched on KZbin. The production, videography, lighting, poetic pace. WOW! Alvin this was a beautiful piece of art thank you for sharing this with us!

[@nell834]

Speechless. This was so beautiful, the cinematography, the storytelling, the masters and chefs that built this restaurant.

[@K4HLER]

Alvin - your a breath of fresh air. Your the Tai in my Chi. Love you bro heart❤

[@BeHappy-qg7eg]

I feel so relaxed and elevated after watching this. I feel like I was a guest and I appreciate how intentional everything was- it challenges me on how I deliver my services. Thank you for this.

[@sari2020]

I'm so excited! I'll edit after I watch. Edit: Yep. Alvin's poetry in motion always brings a smile to my face and soul. Each of these mini-documentaries leave me feeling like I know the heart of the proprietors, the hardship, the joy, and the dedication to craft. The way music is used to shift my emotions in this one was cinematic. Thank you for sharing both your gifts and theirs.

[@Kirinboi]

I have to say, the idea of the waiters of each room leading the kitchen so fascinating. It makes especially since the guests dine in private rooms rather than an open floor where the chef can see everything

[@naenae3461]

Boss rolling in at 10 am like, yoooo

[@psidvicious]

I bet for the first 30 years he was the guy that was there at 4-5 am though.

[@AltoEcho]

Japan is so amazing, their culture/traditions so cool and their citizens are so amazing, I wish it was real 😔

[@Myrdrrr]

Masataka [Legendary Farmer]

[@sari2020]

These made me laugh. Both the farmer and fish purveyor surtitles. I know it's a result of years of friendship but it's also true.

[@Myrdrrr]

@sari2020 YEAH!!!! The titles all added to the enjoyment for me too

[@ArtemValua]

This is simply one of the best videos I saw, people like this and creators like this really keep the world going. Thanks to the author, you did change my life.

[@donutella38]

3-Star Michelin quality film making marries perfectly with the 3-Star Michelin restaurant. (although calling Kikunoi Honten a restaurant doesn't do it justice - the whole place is a work of art). I loved this from beginning to end.

[@dilshadteemul5062]

I check in on this channel periodically in the hopes of another upload - my prayers have been answered today :D have liked the video before I even hit play! Thank you, Alvin!

[@srleplay]

Next to dictionary definition of quality over quantity stands Alvin's photo

[@Asabovesowbelow]

When the chef spoke about feeding the heart 🥹 Beautifully done video, thank you !

[@adog3129]

17:53 20k yen? $137 usd??? i was expecting at least ten times that, that's crazy for three michelin stars. that's crazy for one michelin star

[@artonion420]

The full course is ￥63,250 at the time of writing this

[@kevincaburneigh3459]

absolute masterpiece

[@geezlouise420]

we are so back

[@joefish6546]

The knife work of the guy preparing that eel was incredibly satisfying to watch. I love seeing a human that has mastered a skilled craft work like that.

[@tetepeb]

Imagine if you where able to eat there once every 10 days for a whole year and experience all the 24 microseasons of food.

[@鋼然]

0:49 22:38 Words cant describe the epicness of these 2 shots. I just cant believe how aesthetic these simple things in our daily lives can turn into. Thank you for bringing me art.

[@nicowokeuplikethis9145]

The worst part of this video 26:17

[@Jimberino760]

This film is an emotional experience. I've never gotten choked up watching a restaurant's BTS. I can't imagine the out of body experience it would be to eat here.

[@gustav0fischer1]

This was one of the best culinary videos I've ever seen, the photography and editing were excellent, and the restaurant dynamic and its owner thoughts throughout the video made it very special, congrats

[@aerodaktyl_]

The camera work and storytelling is just unbelievable. Youre a master of your craft Alvin.

[@teapot4two610]

In the dance of movement and craft, you’ve created a tapestry of culinary and cinematic grace, with each moment blossoming like a symphony guided by a master’s hand, where every note sings of artistry in its truest form.

[@kylewhitney2890]

The craftsmanship and dedication that exists in this establishment and the Japanese culture overall is unreal. The attention to detail is mind-blowing and everything looks incredible. Having said that, I got a cheetos ad at the end of this video.

[@남-c9w]

yess he's back! i am really into culinary documentaries or docus in general. it is always yours that bring tear to my eye -- this documentary is an art piece for me! and their hospitality you can see how it manifest and reflects through their work. aaah i loveee thiss so much!

[@SOLACE_kangs]

Each shot, each scene is so perfectly mesmerizing. The hard going dedication of the whole team, the owner's words and their love for the cuisine is so perfectly depicted. Truly in love with this, it's not just a video it's an experience in itself. Truly inspiring! 💌

[@yathinnavy]

Thank you @Alvinzhoufilms for sharing this with us. This is the most wholesome documentary I have ever seen in my entire life. You have captured the true essence of what this family wishes to portray. The cinematography and choice of music dances beautifully together. He shares such wisdom that truly speaks to the heart. ❤ This restaurant will definitely be on my list when I visit Japan.

[@blackwolfsskin355]

truly a great video as always. Enjoying these while eating or relaxing is really the best, ty for your work.

[@Zatracenec]

One of the most beautiful video I've seen. Camera, shots, font, editting......plus the incredible aesthetics of this restaurant.....just amazing.

[@rossrobbins7707]

Each of these dishes looks perfectly prepared, exquisitely presented, and delicious, all without the usual fine dining fussiness. Japanese cuisine is incredible. Can you imagine living in a dorm for five years to become a chef?? 😮

[@BBZehef]

This is one of the best videos depicting a culinary identity and boy have I seen many

[@AntoineTeillon]

This video is one of the rare occurence when you have both parties sublimate each other and you sir sublimate these chefs work while in return giving you a living scene to create your amazing movie. You should seriously consider film competition, if you’ve not won them all already, keep up the good work and thank you fir this beautiful moment

[@moetion4440]

This is the most beautiful culinary video i have ever seen. Lovely production and a keen eye for details, setting the perfect stage for this wonderful restaurant. Makes me want to sell everything i got just to go there once. Thank you for this masterpiece.

[@JanGelhausen]

A masterpiece. That’s true for the videography and for the restaurant. Just fantastic. I am happy to have seen this.

[@星空コーヒー]

I’m Japanese.at first appreciate you made this great video to the world.and to world enjoy this video and Japan.thank you so much