ITAMAE: Finger’s Garden, an oasis of charm and creativity in the heart of Milan

20/05/2025

The journey of ITAMAE – The 7 Samurai of Japanese Cuisine, in search of true Japan in Italy, reaches its final destination. And what better place than Finger’s Garden – an oasis of elegance, charm and culinary creativity.

Originally conceived as a luxury restaurant, Finger’s Garden is the locus amœnus of Japanese cuisine – a true “garden of delights” in the heart of Milan. Since its opening in 2004, near the Porta Nuova district, the restaurant has been nestled within a meticulously maintained garden, creating a suspended, peaceful and captivating atmosphere.

The interior ambiance is equally evocative – an ideal setting that perfectly enhances the dining experience at Finger’s, where art and technical mastery meet. Chef Ichiro Nakagawa offers top-tier fusion cuisine, where experimentation, creativity and cross-cultural influences yield truly surprising results.

For ITAMAE, the chef presents a trio of donburi-mono, i.e. complete meals served in a single bowl. These include: Sanshokudon, the “three-color bowl,” which combines white rice with three vibrant seasonal ingredients, in line with tradition; Oyakodon, a warm and comforting dish whose name means “parent and child,” featuring chicken and egg together; Chirashizushi, a well-known style of sushi that dazzles the eye with its colorful mix of rice, shrimp, salmon and other fresh ingredients.

At the heart of all three dishes is, as always, New Kenji Premium Sushi Rice – the 100% Italian sushi rice produced by Mundi Riso. With its exceptional texture, shine, and flavor, it is the perfect partner for preparing Japanese and ethnic dishes, enhancing both their taste and quality.

Watch the interview with Finger’s Garden ITAMAE Ichiro Nakagawa and all three recipe videos on New Kenji YouTube channel: click here.