10 of the best restaurants in Kyoto

Sarah Merle

Sarah is one of the creative minds behind the Le Petit Chef blog. With her authentic and approachable style, she enjoys sharing all kinds of experience-based activities.

One of the most important cities, which was the capital for a long time and today is the soul of old Japan and timeless elegance. Exactly, I mean Kyoto! With countless temples, blooming cherry blossoms, dreamy autumn foliage, and artful gardens, it is the center of seasonal beauty.

Even more famous is Japan for its proud culture, family businesses, and friendliness — also gastronomic hospitality! The artful dishes, traditional sweets, and a classic matcha awaken Japanese tastes. Be excited for the ten best restaurants in Kyoto — with the best food!

Tip #1: Nishiki Market

Our first tip for eating in Kyoto offers not just one option, but many! The Nishiki Market is a 400m long market that has been known since the 14th century for selling fresh goods. Traditionally handmade dishes are for sale — mostly you can even watch the preparation. Many things can be tasted beforehand and although no English is spoken, gestures always make communication possible!

Many vendors have taken over the shops from their families, so they are now run in the 3rd to 5th generation, impressive, isn’t it? It is a market that lives and constantly evolves. Experience the transformation of Kyoto and the best food right there!

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Tip #2: Menbaka

Has your food ever been served on fire? Menbaka is a ramen restaurant with a special show effect. Hot oil meets the spring onion, which sets your dish on fire right at the table. Of course, you wear a fireproof apron and the room is even darkened so you can fully experience it.

The most important thing for the kitchen team is to preserve the original flavor of the ramen, which means: soy sauce with broth. Menbaka cooks under the motto “Happiness lies in every bowl” and this is accompanied by first-class service. So it is a must where you have to eat in Kyoto.

Tip #3: Honke Owariya

Hard to believe, but Honke Owariya has existed since 1465, more than 550 years. The family business has been passed down to the 16th generation. A wagashi confectionery that later began producing soba. It became so famous and high quality that even Buddhist temples and the imperial court were supplied with it.

Today there are still various dishes with soba and delicious pastries. The place radiates complete calm, mindfulness, and Japanese culture. So experience traditional interior design with wooden floors, beautifully handcrafted tableware, and the special thing: taking off shoes is still customary here. Have fun on your personal time travel!

Tip #4: Kikunoi Honten

This 3-star Michelin cuisine must be tried, because at Kikunoi Honten, the most renowned chefs of Japan are cooking. Here, not only are traditional courses reinterpreted and served, but there is also a special spring water tradition.

Since the 16th century, the restaurant has been drawing its cooking water from the well. The cuisine is praised by “kaiseki aficionados,” which is the highest culinary art. Whoever eats here enjoys the view of the Zen garden and deep reflection while savoring.

Tip #5: Izusen

A special place to eat at in Kyoto is Izusen. We are located in the Daiji Temple, a place of peace, spirituality, and nature. The menu follows the same motto. It is a Buddhist cuisine with a focus on plant-based ingredients. In spring, a lot is cooked with bamboo shoots, and in autumn with chestnuts.

The dishes are small but artful — in Spain one would call them tapas. Let yourself enter a new level and enjoy a meal in the garden of the temple — who knows what else you might experience besides a sensational taste.

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Tip #6: Kikyo Sushi

A perfect spot for a dinner in Kyoto is Kikyo Sushi. Housed in a traditional Kyomachiya, a wooden townhouse and a symbol of Kyoto’s cultural heritage, traditional Japanese food is also served: sushi.

There is nigiri sushi, tempura, grilled fish, and delicious desserts. Not too expensive, but all the more delicious! It is the favorite restaurant for sushi among the locals. The special thing — for those who want to stay longer or come more often: they even offer a workshop to make sushi yourself.

Tip #7: Towerland – Rooftop Bar & BBQ Bugyo

Under blue skies or during a beautiful sunset – one thing is always there: a breathtaking view of the city. Towerland is a restaurant where time passes by and the fun only builds up. Different seating areas create different atmospheres, but in any case, it is a modern city experience.

There are DJ events and live music, along with delicious BBQ: either all-you-can-eat or bring-your-own-plate. Various kinds of meat and fish, as well as a wide range of side dishes, provide the foundation for a great dinner in Kyoto.

Best to book and reserve early, otherwise the BBQ gets booked out and eaten up quickly!

Tip #8: Gion Tsujiri

One of the most famous tea houses in Kyoto is Gion Tsujiri. In the middle of the old town, it is the perfect place for a break from sightseeing. Here, you’ll find tea from the best location in Uji – you can even taste it before buying and take it home as a souvenir for your loved ones.

Delicious desserts made from matcha are offered; we recommend the combination of a parfait and a matcha to combine sweet and bitter.

The tea shop lives by the motto “Tea brings back the original nature of the human being” – experience your personal tea-transformation and enjoy a piece of Kyoto’s culture.

Tip #9: Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoying a masterpiece of Kyoto cuisine with a view of the river and mountains – that sounds good, doesn’t it? The cuisine at Arashiyama Yoshimura is tailored to the four seasons and focuses solely on regional, fresh, and seasonal ingredients.

Typical Japanese dishes such as quail dumplings, tofu kaiseki, Omi beef & grilled eel are served. Frozen dishes can even be purchased so that the taste experience can be relived at home. The restaurant is divided into two floors, with the first featuring a large, modern dining hall and the second offering several rooms for private gatherings with a beautiful view of the greenery.

This way, the handmade food becomes perfect for any time of day and any occasion.

Tip #10: Tominokoji Tempura Matsui

Tempura is a popular method of preparation in Japanese cuisine and the best food in Kyoto! In this process, fish and vegetables are battered and deep-fried, then served. Tominokoji Tempura Matsui is known for the artistry of tempura cuisine.

The open kitchen allows guests to look over the chef’s shoulder during preparation and be amazed. There are lunch menus as well as dinner menus available, which are based on refined and luxurious ingredients and impress with their flavors. Since it is located near a train station and many sights, it is an ideal spot!

Our selection of restaurants is based, among other things, on the editorial team’s individual preferences and on reviews on the internet. Please contact the respective provider directly for information on reservations and prices. The pictures come from the restaurants listed. All Information is provided without guarantee!