Taste a Different Side of Kyoto! 12 Restaurants Filled With Unique Personalities Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Guide-

Update-date: Dec 12 2023

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

Taste a Different Side of Kyoto! 12 Restaurants Filled With Unique Personalities

One of the leading sightseeing spots in Japan, Kyoto is home to some of Japan's most famous sites, such as Arashiyama, the Golden Pavilion, and the Silver Pavilion. There are also many restaurants in Kyoto that are bursting with a unique sense of personality. Here is a selection of 12 of the best restaurants in Kyoto. Whichever you choose, each of these restaurants makes for great date spots that are slightly different from the norm, so be sure to reference this article when looking for a place where you can make some memories with that special someone.

See full listings of Japanese Cuisine restaurants found in and around Kyoto.

1. Daniel's

Daniel's is an Italian bar that offers patrons delicious fresh pastas and meats in a beautiful space that is reminiscent of the kind you would find on an Italian street corner. You'll find that you won't be able to help yourself from breaking into a smile with that special someone in this unique restaurant. The fresh pasta is highly recommended and is made fresh by hand every day using semolina flour and eggs. The freshly made spaghetti offers customers that kind of chewy texture that dried pasta simply cannot. The [Roast Shoulder of Pork Grill] is made using pigs fed on rice grown in Nagano Prefecture. The meat is renowned for its tenderness and sweetness, as well as its springy texture. Daniel's is the perfect place for both a casual or more fancier kind of date.

Daniel's

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm [Monday-Thursday, Sunday] Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm [Friday, Saturday, Days before holidays] Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm
Closed: Sundays
Average price: [Dinner] 2,600 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: A two minute walk from Karasuma Station, next to Daimaru!
Address: Glamorous Food Bldg. 2F, 596 Nishi Uoya-cho, Takakura Nishi-iru, Nishikikojidori , Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto (Map)
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2. Kappo Chihiro

Kappo Chihiro prides itself on getting the best flavors out of the freshest seasonal ingredients that are all bursting with umami (Japanese savory taste). They serve some of the best food in Gion, managing to draw the inherent flavor out of their ingredients. Once you step inside the building, you will be greeted with an area decorated in a pleasant wooden style. Kappo Chihiro also contains some Japanese-style spaces with tatami mats and horigotatsu (sunken kotatsu table) meaning that you and your partner can enjoy a relaxing time together while eating authentic Japanese cuisine. The grilled eggplant is highly recommended, and its simplicity belies a depth befitting of a chef who really cares about their food. While the eggplant isn't seasoned, it becomes slightly sweeter as it's lightly grilled. This spot is perfect for those looking for a classier date where you can experience Japanese traditions.

Kappo Chihiro

Open: [Tuesday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Lunch 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (must book by the previous day) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm (L.O. 8:30 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 20,000 JPY
Access: 394 meters from Gionshijo Station
Address: 279-8, Gionmachi-Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto (Map)
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3. Hyoto

Hyoto offers traditional, Japanese course meals that allow customers to experience the highest degree of Japanese hospitality and seasonal produce all in a refined and traditional Japanese environment. The restaurant is decorated in a luxurious Japanese style and is perfect for a refined date. At Hyoto, customers can enjoy the [Dashi Shabu]. The seasonal vegetables and pork meat cooked in rich dashi (broth) make this a signature meal of this restaurant. They also offer buckwheat noodles to finish off the remaining broth. The Shion course serves up a feast of traditional Kyoto food made with seasonal ingredients, with each dish made by the hands of skilled chefs. If you and your partner are looking to spend a luxurious moment together, this is the restaurant for you.

Hyoto

Open: [Friday, Saturday, Day before National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
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4. Premium Wagyu Steak Hanasato

Hanasato is located a 7-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line. This restaurant, which is designed to resemble a traditional Kyoto townhouse, focuses primarily on steaks. Combining traditional Japanese decor with a more luxurious design, Hanasato offers you a place where you can have a date with an extra degree of class. If you opt for a counter seat, then you will be able to see the chefs grilling your steak right in front of you. The [Higashiyama] option comes highly recommended and allows customers to enjoy a selection of dishes, including sirloin steak made with specially selected Yonezawa beef. This beef is shipped in directly from the supplier and is grilled rare, leaving it crispy on the outside and tender in the middle. Why not take that special someone out to savor carefully selected meat dishes?

Premium Wagyu Steak Hanasato

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (last order 2:30 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm (last order 8:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access: 7 minutes on foot from Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line (Keihan Honsen)
Address: 404 Hashimoto-cho, Shinbashi-dori Hanami-koji Higashi-iru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto (Map)
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5. Kakurega Shijo Kawaramachi Branch

The chefs at Kakurega take the utmost care in all aspects of their work, from the selection of ingredients to preparation and serving, ensuring patrons enjoy the finest quality cuisine. Groups of two or more are able to rent private rooms, meaning you and that special someone can enjoy a relaxing date within a modern Japanese space. You'll want to try their nabe (hot pot) menu, which has been blowing up on social media! The beautiful presentation looks great in photos and there is a wide variety of options to choose from. The popular [Tomato Sukiyaki] (hot pot stew) comes with an entire whole tomato, the [Salt Truffle Nabe] is garnished with rings of lemon arranged in a circle, and the [Pork Shabu Shabu] offers a gorgeously arranged platter of pork.

Kakurega Shijo Kawaramachi Branch

Open: 4:30 pm - 12:00 am
Closed: None
Average price: 2,800 JPY Appetizer fee 350 JPY (plux tax) / Service charge: 10% (for a la carte orders)
Access: 3-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line
Address: B1F, Shokakuji Akamon Bldg., 599, Uradera-cho, Uraderacho-dori Takoyakushi-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku. Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

6. Kawamura Ryori Hei Gogomachi Branch

Conveniently located just 5 minutes from the station, this restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere. The way the food is prepared, primarily using locally sourced and seasonal Kyoto ingredients, gives rise to a depth of taste that belies the simplicity of the traditional Japanese cooking methods used. The decor of Kawamura Ryori Hei maintains a traditional Japanese essence with a few modern touches, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing meal. The [5 Delicious Bright Lights of Kyoto] is perfect for a date; beginning with 5 hors d'oeuvres, it comes with a wealth of other options, including matsutake mushrooms steamed in an earthenware pot and a beef fillet steak. This spot is recommended for those looking for a slice of luxury in a traditional Japanese setting.

Kawamura Ryori Hei Gogomachi Branch

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm), Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Closed on the 1st, 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th of May.
Average price: [Dinner] 3,500 JPY / [Lunch] 1,950 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 9 of Kawaramachi Station
Address: 391-1, Funaya-cho, Gogomachi-dori Nishikikoji-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

7. Kyoshoku

At Kyoshoku, you can sample creative cuisine made with seasonal ingredients that combine both Japanese and Western flavors. The taste of the seafood delivered directly to the restaurant from Wakasa Bay is drawn out by the chefs' preparation skills. The interior decor has an adult feel that combines the traditional Japanese with the modern. The discrete lighting on the seated areas is sure to bring couples closer together. You will want to eat the popular [Hamburg Steak with Miyama Egg on Top], which has been on the menu since the restaurant opened and has been made consistently using the same recipe. Chicken breast meat, thigh meat, and garlic are kneaded together by hand to create this fantastic dish. The free range eggs of Miyama and the special rich sauce add to the flavor of the steak, creating a deliciousness that spreads throughout the mouth. This treat is sure to bring a smile to your mouth!

Kyoshoku

Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:30 pm), Lunch 11:30 am - 2:00 pm (L.O. 1:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Closed on January 23 and January 29.
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY
Access: Located a 3-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto line, follow along Teramachi Street and it is located across from Fuji Daimaru
Address: 611-2, Teianmaeno-cho, Teramachi-dori Shijo-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

8. Ichian Masamune Bettei

Ichian Masamune Bettei is conveniently located 3 minutes on foot from the Gion-shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line and 2 minutes from the Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line. All spaces in this restaurant are private regardless of numbers, meaning that you and your partner can enjoy delicious food while relaxing together. The [Horse Meat Sashimi Yukhoe] is a must-eat dish that uses the finest quality of odorless horsemeat, which is garnished with a specially made Korean tartare sauce and an egg yolk on top. The [Eel Skewers] will surely give you a burst of energy. The eel is broiled in a soy sauce based sauce and skewered, so it's easy to eat. If you and your date are looking for a traditional restaurant with a wide and varied menu, then how about popping by?

Ichian Masamune Bettei

Open: [Monday-Thursday, Sunday, National holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 1:00 am (L.O. 12:30 am)
[Friday, Sunday, The day before national holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 4:00 am (L.O. 4:00 am)
Closed: None
Average price: 3,000 JPY
Access: 2-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line and 3-minute walk from Gion-shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line
Address: 4F, Sakizo Bldg., 215, Nabeya-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

9. Bistroya Kyoto Ekimae Branch

Bistroya offers a casual, private space in which customers can enjoy a marriage of seasonal culinary delights and wine. The restaurant features a relaxed and stylish atmosphere, giving you and your partner the chance to enjoy a selection of food crafted with the freshest seasonal ingredients. The rooms at Bistroya are all private, meaning that you and your partner can enjoy a moment alone to yourselves. The [Bistro Fondue] is a suite of dishes that also comes with 2 hours of all-you-can-drink. Its star attraction is the cheese fondue, which is the most popular item on the menu. Your meal will also come with either pasta or pizza, which you will be asked to choose upon booking, so you will both go home feeling full after a decadent feast.

Bistroya Kyoto Ekimae Branch

Open: 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm *Reservations for parties can be made before opening hours (Discounts offered for early and late bookings)
Closed: None
Average price: 3,500 JPY
Access: 3-minute walk from Exit 1 of Kyoto Station on the Karasuma Line of the Kyoto Municipal Subway. 3 minutes from JR Kyoto Station.
Address: 2-730, Higashi Shiokoji-cho, Higashinotoin-dori Shichijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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10. Rakuzo Kyoto Ekimae Branch

At Rakuzo, you can spend a special time within a space that perfectly balances traditional Japanese style with a more modern perspective. This restaurant offers a wide range of different dishes, from fresh sashimi to creatively cooked items. They also offer private spaces with horigotatsu, meaning that you and that special someone can enjoy a romantic dinner date without worrying about those around you. The most recommended dish is the [Creative and Seasonal Course] that includes 2 hours of all-you-can-drink. This complete meal includes both meat and fish dishes, with appetizers such as pickled mackerel bruschetta, fried sweet potato, fresh vegetable salad, deep-fried fish, and oven roasted chicken. Rakuzo is the place to go if you are looking for a date spot to fill both your heart and belly.

Rakuzo Kyoto Ekimae Branch

Open: 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm *Reservations for parties can be made before opening hours (Discounts offered for early and late bookings)
Closed: None
Average price: 3,500 JPY
Access: 2-minute walk from Exit 1 of Kyoto Station on the Karasuma Line of the Kyoto Municipal Subway. 2 minutes from JR Kyoto Station.
Address: 4F, 2-730, Higashi Shiokoji-cho, Higashinotoin-dori Shichijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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11. The Kitchen Salvatore Cuomo KYOTO

The Kitchen Salvatore Cuomo KYOTO is located on the 11th floor of the Isetan department store at Kyoto Station. They serve a variety of delicious Italian dishes and wine that couples can enjoy together. This restaurant is equipped with a wood fire pizza oven and has a white interior design that gives off a fresh and clean feeling. Couples can enjoy a refreshing date while taking in the pleasant view of the street through the large window. You have to try the [D.O.C], a pizza dish that won first place in the World Pizza Championship in the Neapolitan category! This pizza is completed with simple ingredients such as fully ripe cherry tomatoes and bocconcini made with 100% buffalo milk.

The Kitchen Salvatore Cuomo KYOTO

Open: Lunch 11:00 am - 4:00 pm (L.O. 3:00 pm), Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (Food L.O. 10:00 pm / Drink L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Follows the closing days of JR Kyoto Isetan.
Average price: [Dinner] 4,700 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: Kyoto Station on the Karasuma Municipal Subway and JR lines.
Address: 10F, JR Kyoto Isetan, 901, Higashi Shiokoji-cho, Karasuma-dori Shiokoji-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

12. Rhoncus

At Rhoncus, you can savor creative Italian dishes that leverage only the best pick of locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is housed in a retro-style Meiji era building that dates back over 100 years. Upon entering, you will be greeted by a nostalgic space that will make you feel as if you have ventured back in time. The [Anniversary Plan] is recommended for dates. It offers customers the chance to sample both meat and dishes along with many other filling delights, such as sparkling wine, hors d'oeuvres, seasonal fish, vegetable cheese fritters, char-grilled beef under the blade, and peperoncino pasta. If you are looking for a slightly different type of date spot, Rhoncus is the place for you.

Rhoncus

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) (L.O. 1:00 pm, closes at 2:00 pm during Christmas season)
Dinner 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: Monday
Closed on the following Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday. There is a cancellation fee. Please check the cancellation policy.
Average price: [Dinner] 5, 000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line. With Shijo Street at your back, enter Gokomachi Street facing south and proceed straight ahead.
Address: 453, Tachibana-cho, Takatsuji Hokuseikado, Gokomachi-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map
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13. bistro Chic

bistro Chic still has the elegance and wabisabi esthetic sense that is gradually being lost even in Kyoto. This private space was built with minimum renovations done to an old folk house first built in 1951, and has a somewhat nostalgic and calm atmosphere that recreates the life of the Kyoto born owner chef. Experience Kyoto-style wabisabi esthetics along with the food. The Venison Roti comes highly recommended. One factor that determines the flavor, which changes every day depending on the season, gender of the animal, and food, is the water volume in the meat. They prepare the ultimate dish by maintaining suitable water levels.

bistro Chic

Open: Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm (L.O. 1:00 pm) / Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 7:30 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY / [Lunch] 10,000 JPY
Access: 10-minute walk north from Daitokuji-mae stop on the Kyoto City Bus
Address: 10-1, Shichiku Nishitakanawa-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Map

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Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.