You can find restaurants that serve authentic Japanese meals at Kyoto, which is a popular sightseeing spot in Japan. This article introduces 5 of the most popular places to enjoy Japanese-style lunches in Kyoto.
1. Mamehachi
Mamehachi offers tofu dishes, which have been a staple in Kyoto for over 100 years, as well as obanzai (side dishes typically served in Kyoto households). This place is perfect for a quick lunch stop if you decide to tour around Gion, its red-light district, and Ponto-cho. Visitors may be wary of how expensive it is to eat at Ponto-cho, but the meals here are at an affordable price. It is recommended to try the Mamehachi Lunch (2,300 JPY (incl. tax)), which includes a special type of smooth and sweet tofu, soft tofu skin, and Namafu (wheat gluten) cutlets. Enjoy eating a healthy Kyoto meal!
2. Kyohana
Kyohana serves healthy side dishes (obanzai) and local chicken dishes made with seasonal ingredients. The recommended lunch menu is the Tamba-dori no Terisuki Teishoku (1,300 JPY (excl. tax)), which combines both types of dishes into a set. This lunch menu includes 3 types of side dishes that are best enjoyed with their special sauce. You may also request for extra rice to help fill you up. Try the Terisuki Don (850 JPY (excl. tax)) as well! Enjoy eating your Japanese-style lunch within the warm wooden walls of the restaurant.
3. KAWAMURA RYORIHEI
Specializing in Kyoto-style dishes, this restaurant is located at Nishiki Market, which is considered to be the kitchen of Kyoto. They have a great value 8-dish lunch course that includes several authentic Japanese dishes, 3 types of desserts, and coffee (1,950 JPY (incl. tax)). If you add 1,500 JPY, you can avail of an all-you-can-eat alcohol plan! The beautiful dishes served here are all comprised of seasonal local ingredients. You may enter without any reservations, and you can even dine alone! Enjoy savoring the dishes in an atmosphere that's neither too fancy, nor too casual.
4. Fujiya Kyoshoku
Located a bit far off from a busy business district, this restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere that makes it almost like a hideout for adults. They have several lunch courses, such as their lunch course for 2 people that includes 12 dishes made with seasonal ingredients for 4,320 JPY (incl. tax) (can reserve until 6:00 PM the day prior, and reservation only). The simple yet delicious sashimi here is made with fresh seafood delivered directly from Wakasa Bay. Enjoy the beauty of the tableware and food presentation! You can watch the cook prepare your food right before your eyes. The individual counter rooms where you may enjoy your time in private are popular as well. Please enjoy a quiet and enjoyable time at this modern Japanese restaurant.
5. Ajifukushima
Though this restaurant started off as a tea house in Gion, it received 1 Michelin star after only a year and a half in business. All the dishes served here are made with only seasonal ingredients. You will find no better dish to experience Kyoto’s four seasons than their “Ohiru no Omakase” (4,320 JPY (incl. tax)). Please take your time enjoying the meticulously prepared meals within the restaurant’s sophisticated Japanese-style walls. Since this restaurant is extremely popular, it is recommended to reserve your seat ahead of time.
The food culture in Kyoto, which has a long history and has been cultivated within mature, offers amazing food presentation and a taste of each season. While on your trip, do enjoy a lunch time that will leave a strong impression!
*Please note that the information in this article is from the time of writing or publication and may differ from the latest information.
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