A Special Michelin-Starred Italian Dinner at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

On September 12, 2025, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto will host an exceptional pairing dinner featuring Michelin-starred Chef Giuseppe Molaro at its Italian restaurant, La Locanda. Known for his innovative culinary philosophy that respects local and seasonal ingredients, Molaro, the owner and chef of the renowned Italian restaurant Contaminazioni, promises a remarkable dining experience that intertwines Italian and Japanese flavors.

Molaro's culinary journey began at his father’s restaurant in Naples, where he developed a passion for cooking from a young age. His formative years included stints in prestigious kitchen environments, such as the three-star Michelin restaurant La Pergola in Rome under the legendary Heinz Beck. His unique style is heavily influenced by his belief in bridging different cultures through distinct flavors, which he terms “Contaminazioni” (or “contaminations”). This philosophy is visually captured in the logo of his restaurant, inspired by the artistry of bamboo crafts he encountered in Arashiyama, Kyoto, reflecting his deep respect for Japanese culture.

During this exclusive event, diners will savor a thoughtfully curated menu focusing on acidity, featuring ingredients such as hibiscus, fermented blueberries, and aged miso. Each dish is crafted to provide a blend of freshness and harmony, channeling Molaro's memories and travel experiences into a special culinary expression using the freshest seasonal ingredients from Kyoto. This cuisine aims not only to impress the palate but also to create a narrative of cultural and culinary fusion.

In Chef Molaro’s words, “Returning to Japan and expressing my profound love for this country through cuisine is a tremendous joy and honor for me. I am constantly inspired by Japan's elegance, spirituality, and respect for nature, and I have created a menu imbued with this gratitude. Taste is the only fusion that connects people, and I hope this evening becomes a time to share in the interplay of culture and flavor, bringing joy to everyone in attendance.”

Event Summary

- Date: September 12, 2025 (Friday)
- Time: Doors open at 18:00, dinner starts promptly at 18:30
- Venue: La Locanda, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
- Content: Special course with wine pairing
- Note: Seating is limited; please book in advance. The course content may change depending on ingredient availability.
- Reservation: Book Here

Additionally, between September 18 and mid-November, La Locanda will feature a special course menu infused with the essence of Chef Molaro, allowing guests to experience his culinary artistry beyond the special event.

About Chef Giuseppe Molaro

Giuseppe Molaro was born in 1986 in Naples, Italy. He began cooking in his father’s restaurant as a child, taking on kitchen duties at 15. After moving to Northern Ireland at 18, he honed his skills at the three Michelin-star restaurant Can Fabes in Spain. In 2010, he returned to work with Heinz Beck at La Pergola in Rome, later contributing to restaurant launches in Portugal and Dubai. He first visited Japan for the opening of HEINZ BECK TOKYO in 2014 and became executive chef in 2016, earning a Michelin star the following year. In 2019, he returned home to open his own restaurant, Contaminazioni, near Somma Vesuviana, and secured a Michelin star in 2021 amidst the pandemic challenges.

About The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is beautifully situated along the Kamogawa River, offering breathtaking views of the Higashiyama mountains. Conveniently located near vibrant districts such as Gion, Kawaramachi, and Pontocho, it serves as an urban resort ideal for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel blends the essence of Japan's traditional culture with modern Western aesthetics, providing luxurious spaces for unforgettable experiences. With 134 guest rooms averaging 50 square meters, the hotel features distinguished restaurants, bars, banquet facilities, and a spa.
For more information, visit The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto. Forbes Travel Guide has awarded the hotel a five-star rating for eight consecutive years, highlighting its unparalleled luxury and service.