14 Highly Recommended Restaurants that Kyoto-Lovers and Gourmets Cannot Miss Duaring Winter Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Reservation Guide-

Update-date: Jun 05 2020

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

Categories: Kyoto

14 Highly Recommended Restaurants that Kyoto-Lovers and Gourmets Cannot Miss Duaring Winter

“Kyoto Restaurant Winter Special” is held every winter, marking its 10th anniversary in 2019. The event will be held during 2/1(Fri) to 2/28 (Thu) with a goal to encourage tourists to have an authentic Kyoto culinary experience, so as to strengthen their understanding of food culture in Kyoto. This year, 200 shops and restaurants, ranging from traditional Kyoto restaurants to Italian and French restaurants are joining, and will offer a special menu using Kyoto’s local ingredients in February. This time, SAVOR JAPAN will recommend you 14 participating restaurants!

See full listings of restaurants found in and around Kyoto.

1. Grandview

15 Highly Recommended Restaurants that Kyoto-Lovers and Gourmets Cannot Miss During “Kyoto Restaurant Winter Special 2019”

Grandview is a French restaurant located inside of The Westin Miyako Kyoto, a hotel on Higashiyama Hills. Being certified as “Restaurants Offering Seasonal Kyo-Yasai (Kyoto vegetables)” which is given under strict conditions, the restaurant successfully fused Kyoto cuisine and French together. [Poiret of Domestic Beef Fillet with Tamba Red Wine Sauce] is highly recommended. As for drinks, the sommelier will advise you a wine that will remarkably match with the dishes. Furthermore, as the name “Grandview” suggests by itself, picturesque scenery can be seen through its large windows. There, guests may observe Higashiyama area and the ancient capital, all while enjoying their dishes.

Grandview

Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (last order 9:00) / Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (last order 2:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Lunch] 3,999 JPY

2. Kyo Suiran

Arashiyama, Kyoto, is a famously-known area for its landmarks; Arashiyama Bamboo Grove will give visitors a sensation that cannot be appreciated in any other forests; Tenryūji, a Zen temple established in 1339, is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Togetsu-kyō (Moon-Crossing Bridge), a bridge initially completed in 836, will offer the visitors incredible scenery of cherry blossom blooming in spring and fall foliage in autumn with the flow of the Katsura River. Kyo-Suiran is located in Suiran Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto, which sits along the Katsura River. It was first constructed as Baron Shizuo Kawasaki’s villa. Guests may enjoy outstanding garden alters by season, and the luxurious interior. Moreover, the dishes make use of the best seasonal ingredients from Kyoto, prepared with a fusion of French aesthetics and style and technique from Japanese kaiseki cuisine to provide original washoku. You will surely be impressed by the brilliant and creative dishes prepared by Japanese and French cuisine chefs. Every part of this restaurant has refined beauty and luxury, where guests may enjoy their sophisticated time.

Kyo Suiran

Open: Breakfast 7:00 am -10:00 am (L.O. 9:30 am) / Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 18,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,000 JPY
Access: 6 minutes walk from Arashiyama Station on Keifuku Arashiyama Main line.
Address: 12 Sagatenryuji-susukinobaba-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto (Map)
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3. Fukujuen Kyotohonten Sankai "Kyo no Chazen"

4. Fukujuen Kyoto Main Store 3rd Floor, Kyo no Chazen

Kyo no Chazen is a traditional French cuisine restaurant with unprecedented concept: to use Uji-tea in all dishes. Nakano Tetsuya, the executive chef, has the experience of being executive chef in Ginza Maxim’s de Paris, a restaurant that introduced French cuisine to Japan. One of the recommended menus are [Fried Sole in Breadcrumbs with Albert Sauce: 'Aromatic Powdered Green Tea’]. Seasoned with the famous Albert sauce from Maxim’s de Paris and powdered green tea, this work is a mixture of authenticity and originality. If you are an Uji-tea lover, do not miss this place!

Fukujuen Kyotohonten Sankai "Kyo no Chazen"

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm / Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Closed: -
Average price: [Dinner] 7,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access: Right next to exit 12 of Karasuma Subway Line, Shijo Station or Hankyu Kyoto Line, Karasuma station. / A 15-minute walk from Keihan Line, Gion Shijo station.
Address: Tominokoji-kado, Shijo-dori , Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto (Map)
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4.TENKI

Nishijin District, Kyoto is famous for being traditional textile center since Kamakura period. Tenki was established in 1933 at this very place, being the pioneer in mixing “Tempura and Kyoto cuisine.” Now at the 3rd generation, the traditional taste of the long-established restaurant is preserved, while adapting the taste to the contemporary guests. Furthermore, okami (landlady) in Tenki is a certified sommelier. The uniqueness of the combination of tempura and wine will open up a new possibility for the guests. Guests may also enjoy colorful and vibrant dishes of “Kyoto Tempura cuisine” along with the picturesque garden that can be seen from the private room. If you have allergies, please inform the restaurant in advance when making the reservation.

TENKI

Open: [Sunday,Tuesday - Saturday] 11:30 am - 8:00 pm (last order 8:00 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 8,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Map
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5. Gion Kurashita

Located at Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto, where geisha and maiko gather, Gion Kurashita is popular among visitors inside and outside of Japan. Its interior is decorated with pottery works of a Living National Treasure and famous artists. As for menus, Kurashita does not only offer Kyoto cuisine, but has variety of Japanese culinary such as sukiyaki and shabu-shabu. On top of this, visitors may choose from seasonal local sakes from all over Japan. One may experience “Kyoto-ness” not only inside the restaurant, but outside as well, as many maikos and geishas are walking around. Thus, if you would like to experience Kyoto fully, this restaurant is a must-go!

Gion Kurashita

Open: Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm (last order 9:00) / Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm (last order 2:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Lunch] 4,000 JPY

6. IKUMATSU

Initially established in 1810, during the Edo period as an antechamber for the Chōshū domain, Ikumatsu experienced the Bakumatsu (the closing of the Tokugawa Shogunate with the coming of Meiji Restoration). This ryokan (inn) is famous for being the dwelling place of Kido Takayoshi (popularly known as Katsura Kogorō, one of three great nobles of Meiji Restoration) and Kido Matsuko (Ikumatsu). As the location records the essential turning point in Japanese history, the room that they stayed is registered as the Tangible Cultural Property. In fact, the damages caused by the Shogunate side is still preserved. Dishes are prepared with carefully selected top-class local ingredients. In winter, guests may enjoy sukiyaki and shabu-shabu. Relive the Bakumatsu experience in Kyoto, with refined traditional dishes, at Ikumatsu.

IKUMATSU

Open: 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm / Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm
Closed: December 27, 28, 29, 30 days are closed on the end of the year.
Average price: [Dinner] 17,000 JPY
Map
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7. KYOU UJI MATCHA RYOURI TATSUMIYA

Tatsumiya was initially established at Uji in 1840 as “chaya (teahouse).” Approximately 80 years ago, Tatsumiya has overturned the concept of Japanese green tea, not to drink, but to eat. Highly recommended is the [Matcha Tofu], a dish made with Hokkaidō soybeans and the finest matcha. The teas used as ingredients are not limited to matcha but also sencha (unshaded green tea) and gyokuro (shaded green tea). Moreover, Tatsumiya is located along the Uji River. Thus, visitors may enjoy the beautiful views of cherry blossom in the spring and fall foliage in the autumn, and more. English and vegetarian menus are available (please consult in advance when making a reservation), so if you are Japanese tea lover, this place is just for you.

KYOU UJI MATCHA RYOURI TATSUMIYA

Open: Dinner 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm (last order 8:00 pm) / Lunch 11:00 am - 3:30 pm (last order 2:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Lunch] 4,000 JPY
Map
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8.SHIMOGAMOSARYO Main Branch

Established on 1856, Shimogamosaryo is located in one of the most historical and picturesque areas in Kyoto, as Shimogamo Shrine is designated as the World Heritage Site by UNSESCO. The garden of Shimogawasaryo is kept in good condition for more than 100 years. During its long history, the restaurant has become the pioneer of introducing kyo-yasai (local vegetable from Kyoto) to the world by inheriting and preserving “dosan dohou (a style of cooking local ingredients based on local, traditional method).” Authentic “Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine)” that uses local vegetables and seasonal ingredients, mixed with a tinge of creativeness is purely a work of breathtaking art.

SHIMOGAMOSARYO Main Branch

Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (last order 8:00 pm) / Lunch 11:00 am - 3:00 pm (last order 2:00 pm)
Closed: 12/27 ~ 1/2 is closed.
Average price: [Lunch] 7,000 JPY
Map
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9. SHIMOGAMO-FUKUSUKE

Shimogamo-Fukusuke is where one may experience exquisite beauty of Kyo-ryori. Built in 1937, the owner of the restaurant is now at the 3rd generation. The motto of the current owner is “to do a clean and delicate work” and to pursue the beauty of each dishes, as he is an expertise in knives and grindstones. Such motto is reflected in his “suimono (clear soup).” The beauty of the cut ingredients and the texture is conceivable through the clear soup. Available sakes in this restaurant are those that adds to the fine taste of the dishes. Plus, private rooms are available for 2 to 90 customers. If you would like to encounter beautifully refined menus prepared with care, why not visit?

SHIMOGAMO-FUKUSUKE

Open: 11:00 am - (last order 8:00 pm)
Closed: (Except New Year)
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Map
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10. Kyoto Hotel Okura Villa Kyoto Cuisine Awata Sanso

11. Kyoto Hotel Okura Villa Kyoto Cuisine Awata Sanso

Kyoto Hotel Okura Villa Kyoto Cuisine Awata Sanso is where one may enjoy main constituents of traditional Japanese beauty. Built in 1937 with excellent “Sukiya-zukuri (an architectural style which derives from a masterpiece by tea master Sen no Rikyū),” Awata Sanso embodies the traditional sense of beauty within its architecture and the garden “Sekisui.” The garden is placed on the foot of Mount Awata, changing its appearance greatly season to season. The quality of the dishes are guaranteed, as the restaurant is awarded Michelin Stars for 7 years straight. Among the popular menus are the beautifully arranged [Hassun (simple meal served on wooden tray)] which changes its contents depending on the season. Fully experience exquisite Japanese beauty of hassun with Jyunmai Daiginjo (premium sake made from the best part of rice, koji, and water), while enjoying the picturesque garden.

Kyoto Hotel Okura Villa Kyoto Cuisine Awata Sanso

Open: [Sunday, Tuesday - Saturday, Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm (last order 7:00 pm) / Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (last order 1:00 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,000 JPY
Map
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11. KIKUYA

Approximately 100 years ago, Miyagawa-chō Kikuya was initially established as tempura specialty shop. As time passed, it became tempura restaurant 60 years ago, and finally started serving hand-made soba, brought in by the 3rd successor, Yasushi Komai. The combination of tempura and hand-made soba is beyond belief. Moreover, guests may enjoy wine from all over the world, as well as local sakes. At the tatami-style seat, you may find yourself having an extraordinary experience of communicating with geisha or maiko.

KIKUYA

Open: [Sunday,Tuesday - Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays]

12. Odaidokoro roji

Odaidokoro roji is a restaurant of creative Japanese cuisine based on local ingredients. Offering variety of original dishes, a visitor may select a dish that matches his/her appetite. Plus, the restaurant welcomes guests who are only visiting for one dish. Therefore, one may enter the restaurant without worry and enjoy with a reasonable price. With variety of sakes mainly from Kinki region, and selected wines, alcohol-lovers will not be disappointed. Moreover, the restaurant is within the walking distance from Byōdō-in, a World Heritage temple, so why not pay a visit after a long day of sightseeing?

Odaidokoro roji

Open: [Tuesday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) Dinner 5:30 pm - (Food L.O. 10:45 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,500 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes walk from Uji Station on JR Nara Line
Address: 171-14, Uji Myoraku, Uji-shi, Kyoto (Map)
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13. MISHIMA-TEI

Established in 1873—six years after the commencement of Meiji Period—sukiyaki restaurant Mishima-tei is now known among celebrities and foreign gourmets. Beautifully prepared marbled beef, selected by the stringent eyes of the experts, may even make you drool. While maintaining the same taste at its core since the day of the establishment at its core, the inherited spirit is “to keep on developing.” Thus, a secret recipe of “warishita (a broth seasoned with soy sauce and sweet wine)” was newly introduced by the 5th owner. Furthermore, many of the interior decorations are left untouched since the Meiji period. Want to go back in time and experience the traditional, exquisite sukiyaki?

MISHIMA-TEI

Open: [Sunday - Tuesday, Thursday - Saturday, Ntional Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] 11:30 am - 10:00 pm
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 8,000 JPY
Map
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14. KYO-RYORI KAJI

“Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine),” because of its carefully-made and refined qualities, is commonly received as the haute cuisine, with expensive price. With a sense of mission to overturn the image that “Kyoto cuisine is too expensive,” Kaji offers kyo-ryori in an affordable price without compromising its quality. The course menu uses the seasonal ingredients abundantly and will satisfy all your senses. If you would like to try out traditional Kyoto cuisine in a reasonable price, please visit Kaji!

KYO-RYORI KAJI

Open: [Sunday - Tuesday, Thursday - Saturday, National Holidays] Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm (last order 9:00 pm) / Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm (last order 2:00)
Closed: ※ First Wednesday in April, Wednesday at the end of November, Kyoto Three Major Festival, August Bon Festival, and business days if it falls on a national holiday
Average price: [Lunch] 3,900 JPY

Seasonal kyo-yasai and fusion of tradition and the new, long history with scenic gardens and landscapes, and the omotenashi spirit that will provide a special care for you—such are the elements that can be discovered in restaurants in Kyoto!

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.