Teppanyaki Zen, located within the luxury onsen ryokan KINNOTAKE Tonosawa, offers an exceptional dining experience in Hakone. The restaurant specializes in premium Ishigaki Island Kitauchi Farm beef, known for its smooth, light fat and rich aroma. The menu features a variety of teppanyaki courses, including options to upgrade to Kobe Premium Wagyu Beef. Seasonal vegetables and desserts are carefully crafted, with the menu changing monthly to ensure a satisfying dining experience throughout the course. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of drinks, including wine, and its calm interior is perfect for celebrating special occasions. In September 2024, Teppanyaki Zen expanded its hours to offer lunch in addition to dinner, allowing more visitors to Hakone to indulge in rare premium beef. The restaurant is located about 5 minutes by car from Hakone Yumoto Station, perched atop a hill within the grounds of KINNOTAKE Tonosawa. Complimentary parking for up to five vehicles is available on the premises.
- The Rin Course (approx. ¥41,800 = $261 USD ): This is the ultimate "surprise" choice as it features both Kobe Premium Wagyu Beef and Japanese Spiny Lobster (Ise-ebi)
- The Zen Course (approx. ¥33,000 = $206.69): Their signature course featuring Ishigaki Island Kitauchi Farm Premium Beef. This specific beef is a local exclusive—Zen is the only restaurant in the Kanagawa region permitted to serve it
- Kobe Premium Wagyu Upgrade: If they order the Zen course, recommend the ¥5,000 upgrade to Kobe beef. Reviewers frequently describe it as "melting in the mouth" like butter
- Ise-ebi (Spiny Lobster): A celebratory staple in Japan. Suggest they ask for the miso soup made from the lobster shells at the end of the course—it is often cited as the best part of the seafood service
- Kuroge-Wagyu Beef Nigiri Sushi: A luxurious appetizer often included in premium courses or available as an add-on
- Garlic Rice with Shiso: Unlike standard garlic rice, their version uses fresh shiso leaves for a fragrant, lighter finish that perfectly cuts through the richness of the Wagyu
- Teppan-grilled Dorayaki: For dessert, their traditional Japanese pancakes are grilled fresh on the teppan right in front of you
