Best Restaurants in Kyoto City

Discover the Best Dining Experiences in Japan’s Cultural Capital

When it comes to cuisine, Kyoto is a city that truly has it all. From traditional Japanese dishes to modern fusion cuisine, the food scene here is legendary. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or just looking for a great meal, there’s something for everyone in Kyoto.

Why Kyoto is a Must-Visit Destination for Food Lovers

As the former capital of Japan, Kyoto is steeped in history and culture. This is reflected in the city’s culinary offerings, which are deeply rooted in tradition. But Kyoto is also a modern, vibrant city, and its chefs aren’t afraid to experiment with new techniques and flavors. The result is a food scene that’s both timeless and cutting-edge.

So whether you’re craving sushi or soba, ramen or tempura, you’re sure to find something to whet your appetite in Kyoto. To help you navigate the city’s many dining options, we’ve put together a list of the best restaurants in Kyoto.

Best Japanese Restaurants in Kyoto 🍣

1. Kikunoi – This Michelin-starred restaurant serves kaiseki cuisine, an elaborate multi-course meal that’s a hallmark of Japanese haute cuisine.

2. Izusen – Located within the Daitokuji Temple complex, this vegetarian restaurant is known for its shojin ryori, a type of Zen Buddhist cuisine that emphasizes simplicity and natural flavors.

3. Hyotei – This historic restaurant has been serving traditional Japanese cuisine for over 400 years. Don’t miss their famous ochazuke, a rice dish served with tea.

4. Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama – Set in a stunning garden, this restaurant offers a refined take on kaiseki cuisine. Be sure to try their signature dish, the hassun platter.

Best Fusion Restaurants in Kyoto 🍜

1. Kitchen & Gallery Koyama – This cozy restaurant serves up creative fusion cuisine, blending Japanese and Western flavors to delicious effect. Don’t miss the bacon-wrapped scallops.

2. Musashi Sushi – This sushi restaurant takes a modern approach to traditional Japanese cuisine, incorporating touches of French and Italian cuisine into their dishes.

3. Kyoto Gogyo – This popular ramen restaurant is known for its flavorful, charcoal-infused broth. Be prepared to wait in line!

Best Budget Restaurants in Kyoto 🍱

1. Musubi Cafe – This casual eatery serves up delicious, affordable bento boxes and onigiri (rice balls).

2. Menami – This tiny udon shop is a local favorite. Try the curry udon for a hearty, filling meal.

3. Gyoza no Ohsho – This chain restaurant specializes in gyoza (dumplings) and other affordable Chinese dishes.

Best Vegan Restaurants in Kyoto 🥬

1. Veg Out – This cozy cafe serves up vegan comfort food, like burgers and mac & cheese.

2. Mumokuteki Cafe – This restaurant offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes, including Japanese-style curry and tofu steak.

3. Choju-Ya – This Buddhist restaurant serves shojin ryori, a type of vegetarian cuisine that’s both healthy and delicious.

Best Sushi Restaurants in Kyoto 🍣

1. Kappo Sakamoto – This small, intimate sushi bar specializes in nigiri, made with the freshest fish available.

2. Gion Sushi Matsumoto – This sushi restaurant is known for its traditional approach to sushi-making, using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients.

3. Sushi Naritaya – This casual sushi restaurant is a great option for those on a budget. Don’t miss their conveyor belt sushi!

Best Street Food in Kyoto 🍡

1. Nishiki Market – This bustling market is a foodie’s paradise, with vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to matcha sweets.

2. Yakitori Yurippi – This street food stall serves up delicious grilled chicken skewers.

3. Taiyaki Wakaba – This popular street food vendor specializes in taiyaki, a sweet, fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste.

Best Rooftop Restaurants in Kyoto 🌇

1. Top of Kyoto – This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city, along with a great selection of cocktails and light bites.

2. Azur – This modern French-Japanese restaurant has a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the Higashiyama mountains.

3. Shishin Samurai Cafe – This hidden gem is located on the rooftop of a temple, and offers an intimate, peaceful atmosphere.

FAQs

1. What is kaiseki cuisine?

Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course meal that emphasizes seasonal and local ingredients. It’s often served in high-end restaurants and is considered a hallmark of Japanese haute cuisine.

2. What is shojin ryori?

Shojin ryori is a type of vegetarian cuisine that’s often associated with Zen Buddhism. It emphasizes simplicity and natural flavors, and is typically served in temples and other spiritual settings.

3. What is ochazuke?

Ochazuke is a Japanese dish consisting of rice served with green tea, usually topped with savory ingredients like pickles or fish.

4. What is kappo-style sushi?

Kappo-style sushi is a traditional Japanese sushi-making technique that emphasizes the interaction between the chef and the customer. The chef prepares each piece of sushi individually and serves it directly to the customer, creating a more intimate dining experience.

5. What is the best time of year to visit Kyoto?

The best time to visit Kyoto depends on your preferences. Spring is popular for the cherry blossoms, while fall is known for the stunning autumn foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, but it’s also a great time to experience local festivals and traditions. Winter is quiet and peaceful, with fewer tourists and lower prices.

6. What is the dress code for Kyoto’s high-end restaurants?

Most high-end restaurants in Kyoto have a dress code, which typically requires guests to wear business attire or formal wear. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant in advance to avoid any surprises.

7. How much should I budget for dining in Kyoto?

The cost of dining in Kyoto can vary widely depending on the type of restaurant and the dishes you order. Budget options like street food stalls and casual cafes can be very affordable, while high-end restaurants can be quite expensive. As a general rule, you can expect to pay around 1000-3000 yen for a casual meal, 5000-10,000 yen for a mid-range restaurant, and 15,000 yen or more for a high-end experience.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a foodie, a traveler, or just someone who appreciates a great meal, Kyoto is a must-visit destination. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and incredible food scene, this city has something for everyone. From traditional Japanese cuisine to modern fusion dishes, Kyoto’s restaurants offer a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

So whether you’re savoring a delicate piece of nigiri sushi or digging into a hearty bowl of ramen, take the time to explore Kyoto’s culinary offerings. You won’t be disappointed!

Disclaimer

The information in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. However, restaurant menus, pricing, and other details are subject to change without notice. Please contact individual restaurants for the most up-to-date information.