Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Kyoto

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.