This in one of the remaining wagashi (traditional Japanese sweet) shops in Kyoto. It is well-known not only for its confectionery, but also for its prime location, right on Shijo St. One can buy the sweets to take out, or go upstairs to the cafe, which has Ming Dynasty pottery and antique furniture. The Wagashi and Green Tea (macha, the frothy bitter green tea used in the traditional tea ceremony) set costs JPY700. Also famous is the shop's kuzukiri arrowroot noodles with a sweet sauce for JPY800.
Kaiseki is a traditional dining ritual in Japan, and Kikunoi is famous exactly for that. Inherited from his grandfather who established this authentic Japanese restaurant in 1912, renowned Chef Yoshihiro Murata assures a remarkable dining experience for one and all coming here. He uses exotic ingredients like sea bream wrapped in bamboo leaves that are then tied with gold and silver strings, to make the most wonderful meal. If that's not a reason enough for a visit, then keep in mind that this place boasts of 10 elegant private dining rooms beautifully decorated with impressive works of art. With great ambience, delicious food and knowledgeable hosts, reservation become essential here as it’s mostly occupied by patrons.
Ippudo Nishiki Koji is a very popular restaurant in Bantoya-cho, Nakagyo in Kyoto. Patrons swear by the gyoza and ramen served there. The food is affordable and filling and is served with a complimentary glass of iced tea. Diners especially enjoy a lemon and chili chutney to go with the gyoza; the eatery bottles and sells the paste as well. The chain originates in Fukuaka and is now in many of the major cities around the world, including New York.
This is a well-established "live-house" — or, in plain English, a music venue. Juttoku is located in an old warehouse (kura) not far from Nijo Castle in the west of the city. Expect to see anything if you decide to just drop in on spec - anything in terms of both quality and genre. Rock, blues, thrash, Japanese pop, Irish fiddle, electronica, you name it and it has probably been played at Juttoku. Usually pretty friendly, though a little out of the way.
Gion Karyo is a classic restaurant in the heart of Kyoto. The exteriors of the establishment are deceptively simple. As soon as you step in, you will be bowled over by the glamorous décor. The meal is served in the form of a four-course gastronomical experience in a formal manner of seating, as is the traditional custom in Japan. The whole meal centers around the serving of kaiseki ryori with its subtle yet distinctive flavors.
This adored coffee and pastry shop is located steps away from the Tozai Subway line, and is a popular stopover for locals traversing through this route - either on the way to work, or for a quick bite while returning home. Shinshindo is known for its delicious breakfast meals, with croissants, freshly baked breads, bagels, teas and coffees. Besides pastries and desserts, savory meals and set lunches are available here as well. Prices are affordable.
This is a small, cozy and incredibly good value Brazilian bar in north Kyoto. You may have difficulty finding elbowroom as the place seats about 15 people with a squeeze, but the menu seems to cover just about everything. The Master probably has not changed the posters or flags that dot the walls since Pele last played for Brazil, but that cannot be said of the music which is right up to date with the latest Brazilian samba, funk and bossa nova. Well worth a look after a hard day touring the nearby temples. On the menu there is a wide range of South American dishes, salads, curries, spaghetti and sandwiches. There is also a variety of Latin American coffees and special herb teas, plus a heady range of wines, cocktails and probably the cheapest, coldest draft beer in town.
A pleasant eatery just behind Kyoto Hotel which serves an international selection of dishes. Reasonable prices and a good location make this a popular lunchtime stop. Do make it here for a great meal. In warm weather the large French windows are opened up to give that alfresco dining experience, at least for those who manage to get a table at the front of the restaurant.
Mukune is a brand of ‘Ginjo' sake brewed by the long-established Daimon Brewery. Ginjo refers to the quality of the wine, the word is synonymous with the English terms 'premium' or 'fine'. The cozy restaurant, housed at the brewery, serves dishes that complement this drink as well as the other home brews on offer. Some of the wait staff speak English, which is a real blessing.
Located in a rustic and serene neighborhood of Kyoto, Gion Hanamai specializes in authentic Kaiseki cuisine, presenting artfully crafted plates laden with flavorsome bites. Grab a seat at the counter and unwind over tasteful wine paired with some incredibly delectable and succulent dishes cooked to perfection. Imbibing Kyoto's nuances and traditions, the establishment offers guests the chance to experience a truly delightful meal in a soothing and calm atmosphere. The restaurant also makes provisions for banquets and private functions.
Arash’s Kitchen is one of the more famous Persian dining places in Kyoto. Most tourists when visiting Japan will overdose on meal after meal of sushi and ramen. Arash’s offers a nice change as it serves a variety of cuisines including Indian, Turkish and Persian. Some of the fast favorites include kebabs and lamb stew. But fear not, vegetarians, the menu also has several options for you. The restaurant offers an extensive drinks menu to go with the often spicy dishes.
The one-Michelin starred Vena restardant is set in Kagamiyacho in Kyoto. This Italian restaurant was established in 2016 by the chef Daiki Hayakawa and Yoji Ikemoto, a wine sommelier. Some of the dishes served here are pastas, seafood and a lot more. To prepare their delectable meals, the restaurant is known to use high-quality and seasonally-available ingredients that are sourced from within the country. Spread across two floors, this restaurant features counter-style seating arrangements and multiple private dining rooms.