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. Menbakaichidi
Menbakaichidi
Menbakaichidai stands out because of its overwhelmingly friendly atmosphere, and it is the spot in town for creating your very own customized ramen dish. Become an expert in the art of making the Japanese delicacy here, and even try your hand at making the noodles from scratch. Order the speciality ‘fire ramen’ if seeking a spectacle, as the owner presents this dish complete with dramatic music and an array of fiery lanterns!
Address and Telephone: 757-2 Minami Iseyacho, Kamigyo-Ku, Kyoto 602-8153,Kyoto Prefecture +81 75-812-5818
2. La Mano di Marco
Restaurant, Italian
3. Izakaya Kyo Taisanboku
Izakaya Kyo Taisanboku
Izakaya Kyo Taisanboku is a Japanese gem nestled down a side street in central Kyoto. Step foot inside and you will be greeted by smiling staff and met by tempting aromas rising from the succulent grilled beef. A wide sake menu is available, giving diners the perfect opportunity to try many varieties of the Japanese rice wine; and the beef croquette here, made with a crispy outer layer and a rich potato and beef filling, is delicious.
Address and Telephone: 424-2 Ikesucho, Nakagyo, Kyoto 604-8216, Kyoto Prefecture, +81 752313736
4. Hafuu Honten
Bar, Restaurant, Japanese
5. Beer Komachi
Bar, Japanese
6. Shishin Samurai Café Bar & Restaurant
Bar, Cafe, Restaurant, Japanese, Pub Grub, Wine, Beer
7. Arash's Kitchen
Arash’s Kitchen
Arash’s Kitchen serves a variety of Meriterranean, Middle Eastern and Indian Plates, a mixture of tasty cuisines sure to tantalize the taste buds! Chef Arash, the mastermind behind the diverse menu, is extremely friendly and welcoming and speaks both English and Japanese, offering help and advice. As the venue is always brimming with customers reservations are highly recommended, and whilst here diners are implored to try the tender and juicy chicken and beef kebabs.
Address and Telephone: Shogoinsan’no cho16-4 | 2F Sun Plaza, Kyoto 606-8392, Kyoto Prefecture +81 757464769
8. La Bouchon
La Bouchon
Le Bouchon is set on a small street at the back of the City Hall in central Kyoto, serving a mixture of Japanese and French dishes. A casual and elegant venue in which to enjoy some French classics, two of the most popular main dishes here are the quenelle à la lyonnaise and the chicken breast roll with foie gras. And if seeking a sweet option to follow, don’t miss the sticky and moreish creme caramel.
Address and Telephone: 71 Enokicho, Nakagyo-ku | Nakagyō-ku, Kyoto 604-0931, Kyoto Prefecture +81 75-211-5220
9. Okariba
Okariba
Okariba is a cozy, warm establishment with a decor based on the style of a log cabin, with low ceilings and rustic, wooden seating. And this is the place to sample some hearty, meaty fare, with wild boar, venison and trout being some of the top picks on the menu. Don’t miss the owner, who both sees diners to their table and helps out in the kitchen. With a variety of hot and cold beverages available, visitors might just find that they can spend hours snuggled up in this cozy hut!
Address and phone number: 43-3 Okazaki Higashitenno-cho, Sakyo-ku | Residence Okazaki 1F, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture +81 75-751-7790
10. Yoshikawa Inn Tempura
Restaurant, Diner, Japanese
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