The Top 10 Restaurants In Central Kyoto Japan

Kyoto is alive with Japanese tradition and culture, and operated as the previous capital of the country for over a millennium. Home to thousands of classical Buddhist temples, majestic gardens and imperial palaces, it’s a dynamic, modern city which still retains much of the grandeur and beauty of old Japan. And as well as offering an alluring array of attractions for visitors, the former capital also boasts some of the best Asian and international cuisine in the country. Here’s Kyoto’s best 10 restaurants and kitchens across town.

1. La Mano di Marco

Restaurant, Italian

La Mano di Marco is the place to be for diners seeking something a little different to Japanese cuisine in Kyoto. The expert chef here, Marco, creates flavorsome dishes influenced by the food of France and Italy, with some of the top menu picks being the tagliatelle with foie gras and porcini mushrooms, and the scallops wrapped in Italian pancetta. The fresh herbs found throughout the restaurant here are charming and aromatic.

2. Hafuu Honten

Bar, Restaurant, Japanese

There are two Hafuu Honten restaurants almost next door to each other in Kyoto, a tasty partnership serving up some scrumptious Asian plates. This is a top spot to sample some perfectly cooked, tender and delicious steaks, all served with a variety of vegetables and a sauce of your choosing. The sleek and chic furnishings create a classy setting in which to dine, and there is a polished bar area or a large dining space in the back of the establishment where diners can enjoy a fantastic dish of fine food.

3. Beer Komachi

Bar, Japanese

This bar is set in a picturesque merchant’s alley, a quiet spot hidden away from the bustle of the city’s traffic. Tapas-style food and ice-cold beer abound at Beer Komachi, a laid back venue specializing in craft ales, and a perfect place in which to relax and enjoy a meal with friends. All plates are prepared using local, organic ingredients, and top menu picks include the roast lamb, the tofu pizza and the spicy scallops.

4. Shishin Samurai Café Bar & Restaurant

Bar, Cafe, Restaurant, Japanese, Pub Grub, Wine, Beer

For visitors searching for a traditional Japanese establishment, Shishin Samurai Café Bar & Restaurant is the place to go. The owner is a fountain of knowledge for everything to do with Samurai culture, and this interest in reflected deliciously in his menu; don’t miss the ginormous Samurai burger and couscous salad. Authentic artwork charmingly adorns the walls here, transporting diners into a Samurai era of bygone Japan.

5. Yoshikawa Inn Tempura

Restaurant, Diner, Japanese

Yoshikawa Inn Tempura is the top spot in which to try tempura in central Kyoto. Two large, fixed-price menus leave the diner spoilt for choice with vegetable and seafood tempura options. With a private dining area as well as a beautiful bonsai garden area in which to sit, customers can choose to enjoy the sophisticated interior or eat under the balmy Kyoto sun.