The Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants in Kyoto Gion

Discover the Hidden Gems of Gion and Savor the Best of Japanese Cuisine

Do you want to experience the culinary wonders of Kyoto? Look no further than Gion, the city’s historic district known for its traditional teahouses and upscale dining options. Whether you’re a foodie or a curious traveler, Gion has something to offer for everyone.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the top-notch restaurants in Gion, Kyoto, where you can indulge in the exquisite flavors of Japanese cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture. From Michelin-starred eateries to cozy izakayas, Gion has a plethora of choices to satisfy your appetite and cravings.

🍣 Sushi Kappo Yoshikawa

🍽️ Located in the heart of Gion, Sushi Kappo Yoshikawa is a must-visit restaurant for sushi lovers. The Michelin-starred eatery boasts a serene and authentic atmosphere, where you can watch the sushi chefs prepare your meal with precision and artistry. The omakase menu features a wide range of seasonal delicacies, including fresh sashimi, grilled fish, and nigiri sushi, all made with the highest quality ingredients.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ:

1. What is omakase?
Omakase is a Japanese phrase that means I’ll leave it up to you. In a restaurant context, it refers to a meal where the chef chooses the dishes for you based on your preferences and the seasonal ingredients.

2. How much does the omakase menu cost?
The price varies depending on the season and the ingredients, but it usually starts from around 20,000 yen per person.

3. Is it necessary to make a reservation?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation in advance as the restaurant is usually fully booked.

🍜 Gion Nanba

🍽️ Gion Nanba is a cozy and charming restaurant that specializes in soba noodles. The rustic interior and friendly staff create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where you can enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal. The menu offers various types of soba dishes, including hot and cold options, as well as tempura and rice bowls. The noodles are made from buckwheat flour and are gluten-free, making them a healthy and flavorful choice.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ:

1. What is soba?
Soba is a type of Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour. It has a nutty and earthy flavor and is usually served hot or cold with dipping sauce or broth.

2. Is soba gluten-free?
Yes, soba noodles made from 100% buckwheat flour are gluten-free. However, some soba noodles may contain wheat flour as well, so it’s important to check the ingredients.

3. Can I customize my soba dish?
Yes, you can choose the type of noodles, the dipping sauce, and the toppings according to your preference. The staff will be happy to assist you.

🍜 Okutan

🍽️ Okutan is a classic Kyoto restaurant that specializes in yudofu, a simple and healthy dish of boiled tofu served with various dipping sauces. The restaurant has a tranquil and traditional ambiance, with tatami mat floors and paper lanterns adding to the atmosphere. The yudofu set includes a salad, rice, and dessert, making it a complete and satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ:

1. What is yudofu?
Yudofu is a traditional Japanese dish of boiled tofu served with dipping sauce. It’s a simple and healthy meal that’s popular especially in Kyoto during the winter season.

2. Is yudofu vegetarian?
Yes, yudofu is typically vegetarian as it doesn’t contain any meat or fish. However, some dipping sauces may contain dashi, which is a broth made from fish.

3. Can I make a reservation at Okutan?
Yes, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak hours.

🍜 Kikunoi

🍽️ Kikunoi is a renowned Kyoto restaurant that has been awarded three Michelin stars for its haute cuisine and impeccable service. The restaurant offers two types of menus, the Kaiseki and the Chayatsuji, both featuring a creative and exquisite selection of Japanese dishes made with seasonal ingredients. The elegant and sophisticated interior, combined with the impeccable attention to detail, creates a memorable and unforgettable dining experience.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ:

1. What is Kaiseki?
Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal that consists of several small dishes served in a particular order. It’s a culinary art that reflects the season, the local culture, and the chef’s creativity.

2. What is Chayatsuji?
Chayatsuji is a type of Kaiseki that originated in Kyoto, which focuses on the tea ceremony and the hospitality of the host.

3. How much does the Kaiseki menu cost?
The price varies depending on the type of menu and the number of courses, but it usually starts from around 20,000 yen per person.

The Best Restaurants in Kyoto Gion offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a fancy dinner. From traditional soba noodles to exquisite Kaiseki cuisine, Gion has it all. So why not embark on a culinary journey and explore the flavors and traditions of Kyoto?

🍛 Gion Owatari

🍽️ Gion Owatari is a cozy and charming restaurant that serves delicious Japanese curry and rice bowls. The interior is decorated with vintage posters and memorabilia, creating a nostalgic and retro atmosphere. The menu offers various types of curry dishes, including chicken, beef, and seafood, as well as vegetarian options. The curry is rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices and sweetness.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ:

1. What is Japanese curry?
Japanese curry is a type of curry that originated in Japan and has a milder and sweeter flavor than Indian or Thai curries. It’s usually served with rice and can be topped with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or tempura.

2. Is Japanese curry spicy?
Japanese curry is generally mild and sweet, but it can be spiced up according to your preference. Some restaurants offer different levels of spiciness to choose from.

3. What is the price range at Gion Owatari?
The price range is affordable and reasonable, with most dishes costing around 1,000-1,500 yen.

🍣 Gion Sasaki

🍽️ Gion Sasaki is a sushi restaurant that prides itself on using the freshest and highest quality ingredients, sourced directly from the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo. The restaurant has a modern and stylish interior, with a sushi counter that allows you to watch the chefs in action. The omakase menu features a variety of sushi and sashimi, as well as other Japanese dishes like tempura and grilled fish.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ:

1. How do I eat sushi?
Sushi is traditionally eaten with your hands, not with chopsticks. You can dip the sushi in the soy sauce and eat it in one bite, without adding any extra condiments or seasonings.

2. What is sashimi?
Sashimi is a Japanese dish that consists of thinly sliced raw fish or seafood, served with soy sauce and wasabi. It’s usually eaten as a starter or a side dish.