The city of Kyōto is the cultural base of Japan for many reasons. Its rich history, art, and architecture and its commitment to preserving and promoting Japanese culture make it a popular destination for international visitors. Located on Honshū Island, Kyōto is the capital of Kyōto Prefecture in the Kansai region and a food lovers paradise. From historic restaurants to vibrant markets, the city offers many delicious options to satisfy every food craving. Kyōto-style sushi, known as saba sugata-zushi, is a must-try when visiting the city, while another popular food option is tai-zushi which is made with sea bream and mild kombu (edible kelp) to match the subtle flavour of the fish.
Here then are the five best places to eat in Kyōto City.
This famous restaurant specialises in Kansai-style charcoal-grilled eel with thick meat that has a pungent, burnt aroma. The restaurant uses eels that are unmatched by other restaurants, and the sauce they use enhances its delicious taste. The place is perfect for those who wish to enjoy the finest fish in a high-end restaurant with a Japanese-style atmosphere. You can get there with a 10-second walk from the Kinkakuji Mae bus stop.
Address: 2-2 Fukakusasuzutsukacho, Fushimi-ku 1f, Kyōto 612-0011 Kyōto Prefecture
Teppanyaki Manryu is a well-known brand specialising in authentic Japanese cuisine. With a focus on teppanyaki-style cooking, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience where skilled chefs prepare the food in front of you. It is known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, where the friendly staff and owners are beloved by both locals and visitors alike. The menu includes various mouth-watering options such as butter prawns, grilled meats, vegetables, seafood and delicious garlic rice. You can reach the restaurant by walking five minutes from the Gion-Shijō Railway Station.
Address: 382-2 Hashimotocho, Higashi-iru 2-chome, Yamato-oji Shinbashidori, Higashiyama-ku 1F Motosan Bldg, Kyōto 605-0933 Kyōto Prefecture
This is an upscale steak restaurant located in Kyōto City that makes use of freshly grown vegetables, seafood from the Seto Inland Sea and the highest quality Kobe beef. Dishes are prepared in an open kitchen, and the restaurant menus are updated daily. Itoh Dining offers two courses for lunch: black Wagyu sirloin and tenderloin. In the evening, guests can choose from four courses, one focusing on abalone and the other on seafood. The restaurant is about a two-minute walk from the Keihan Main Line Station.
Address: 〒605-0085 Kyōto, Higashiyama Ward, Sueyoshicho, 80
This small restaurant offers carefully prepared tasty food to its customers. The Japanese way of making fresh ramen and gyoza is at the heart of Ramen Sen no Kaze. Its tonkotsu (pork-based) soup comes in three delicious varieties: slightly salty shoyu, soy sauce-based shoyu and miso ramen, the last of which is very popular with customers. It is just a few minutes walk from Exit 6 and Exit 9 of Kyōto-kawaramachi Station.
Address: 580 Nakanocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyōto, 604-8042
Mizuki at the Ritz-Carlton, Kyōto, is a multi-course restaurant where one can enjoy dishes carefully prepared by the head chefs. Combining tradition and innovation, each course is a work of art, and guests will be taken on a culinary journey like no other. Here, you can enjoy the taste of fresh vegetables, seasonal ingredients and freshly fried items. The menu courses of Mizuki include sushi dishes, various side dishes, an omakase experience and dessert.
Address: 543 Hokodencho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyōto, 604-0902