While you’re walking around, you must be wondering—where to eat after seeing so many temples, rivers, and culture in Kyoto? Japan’s ancient capital is not only a place to satisfy your eyes, but also your tongue.
The cuisine here has a touch of tradition, as well as the creativity of modernity. So now we’ll talk about Kyoto’s food—a few restaurants that will let you experience the real taste of the city.
Menya Inoichi
First, let’s talk about Menya Inoichi. This is one of the nine ramen restaurants in Kyoto that has been included in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand list. Located near Shijo Train Station, this small but busy shop is particularly proud of its 100% seafood broth.
This soup is made by slowly simmering various fish flakes—especially the delicate bonito flakes of “Kyoto Katsuobushi”—at a low temperature, which gives each bite of ramen a soft yet deep flavor.
The chefs’ attention to detail is so impeccable that every bowl is a delicate balance of Japanese cuisine.
Chao Chao Kiyamachi
A perfect place for a late-night hangout is Chao Chao Gyoza – Sanjo Kiyamachi. Located in the Ishiyacho in Nakagyo Ward, this izakaya-style restaurant is a warm haven—soft lighting, cheerful staff, and steaming gyoza on every table. The dumplings here are the pride of Kyoto residents.
The menu ranges from classic pork and shrimp gyoza to the exceptional fried chicken skin gyoza—every bite is a new surprise. And if you’re looking for a little something sweet, try their popular chocolate gyoza—sweet, melty, and an unforgettable experience.
A Happy Pancake
When it comes to sweets, A Happy Pancake is a must-try. Although its main branch is in Ginza, Tokyo, many tourists still put this cafe on their Kyoto travel list. This shop, which is famous for Japan’s “fluffy pancakes,” is like a small festival.
One bite here will make you understand why foreigners line up to eat these pancakes—soft, spongy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Breaking away from the usual trends, these pancakes are truly unique in taste, perfect as a dessert after a main course.
Arashiyama Miyoshitei
Finally, for those traveling to Kyoto and looking to experience true Japanese hospitality, Arashiyama Miyoshitei is a unique destination. Located in the picturesque setting of Arashiyama, this restaurant serves high-quality Wagyu beef and Kyoto-style tofu dishes.
The “Ichiju Sansai” set—which includes a bowl of soup, three side dishes, and a main course with special dashi and homemade sauce—turns the meal into an art form. The traditional interior decor, soft lighting, and the view of Arashiyama outside the window combine to make every meal an experience.
Kyoto’s food culture is another expression of the city’s soul—where moderation, beauty, and tradition are blended into every dish. A bowl of hot ramen or a bite of fluffy pancakes after a tiring journey is the only way to truly understand Japan.
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@itsemmaquinn My favorite spots in Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵 These places are a MUST if you are visiting anytime soon! #kyoto #japan #kyotojapan #japanfood #kyotofood
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