Top Kaiseki Restaurants in Kyoto: Exceptional Choices for Dinner at a Great Price
Photograph:ぎんじろう☆彡
Shokudo Ogawa is located just a 2-minute walk from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station and is open for dinner only.
Here, you can enjoy creative kaiseki cuisine prepared in the open kitchen right before your eyes—all at a reasonable price.
Photograph:食べムロ
The "Saba Sushi" here features vinegared mackerel paired with simmered nori seaweed and shiitake mushrooms, all layered with fresh shiso leaves. Rather than a sharp tang, it offers a distinct sweetness.
This dish is known for its rich and full mackerel flavor.
Photograph:50オヤジ
The pictured "Fugu Kara-age" (deep-fried pufferfish) is served boneless for easy enjoyment. The fish is known for its firm and springy texture.
Because it is carefully dehydrated, there is little excess moisture or odor. It is served with a wedge of kabosu citrus on the side.
でぃ2489
It would not be an exaggeration to call this the best shokudo in Japan. Seated at the counter surrounding the kitchen, I watched the chef skillfully prepare hamo (pike conger). Here, you can enjoy a variety of seasonal ingredients, all at a surprisingly reasonable price. This is a restaurant you'll want to visit again and again, with each changing season.
Source:でぃ2489's review
めりょん
Every dish, from classic favorites to seasonal specialties, was absolutely delicious and left me completely satisfied. It was my first time trying the hamo (pike conger) sushi, and it was exceptional. The selection of takeout options, including the hamo sushi, has also expanded. Next time, I plan to order some to take home as well.
Source:めりょん's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Silver winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Shokudo Ogawa
Kyoto Kawaramachi Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 10,000 - JPY 14,999
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Monday
京都府京都市下京区西木屋町通四条下ル船頭町2041F
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Photograph:yama-log
Muromachi Kaji is located just a five-minute walk from Gojo Station. The spacious counter made of light-colored wood allows guests to relax and enjoy their meal in comfort.
Even when ordering both drinks and food, guests can enjoy dinner at a reasonable price.
Photograph:ぱるたまは食いしん坊
The dinner menu primarily features à la carte dishes.
The owner personally selects the finest seasonal ingredients from the central market and other sources, resulting in delicately crafted flavors and beautifully presented plates that highlight the natural qualities of each ingredient.
Photograph:ぱるたまは食いしん坊
The highly recommended "Otoshi Hassun" at Muromachi Kaji requires a reservation and is a signature part of their kaiseki cuisine. The selection changes with the seasons.
In the photo, you can see dishes such as marinated oyster mushrooms and katsuo-na greens, as well as firefly squid and canola flower dressed with vinegar miso.
ebdfa7
Visited on a Monday evening with a reservation. We ordered hassun (seasonal appetizer platter), assorted sashimi, tempura of hamo (pike conger), eggplant, and clay pot rice with crab. The sashimi featured large, fresh cuts and was exceptionally delicious. Every dish was carefully prepared and flavorful. The total for two people was about JPY 14,000, making it an excellent value. I would love to visit again.
Source:ebdfa7's review
Komari
We made a reservation before visiting. Every dish we tried was truly delicious. Each course was carefully prepared with great attention to detail, and the entire meal was outstanding. The assorted sashimi platter was especially memorable, featuring exceptionally fresh and flavorful fish. The saba (mackerel) sushi was also irresistible.
Source:Komari's review
Muromachi Kaji
Gojo Sta. / Japanese Cuisine, Izakaya (Japanese style tavern)
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JPY 6,000 - JPY 7,999
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Thursday
京都府京都市下京区松原通新町東入中野之町1851F
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Photograph:Gatto
Marutamachi Junidan Ya is located just a 2-minute walk from Marutamachi Station. This restaurant specializes in kaiseki cuisine served in a set meal style.
The interior exudes a sense of history and traditional charm. In addition to standard tables, guests can also enjoy their meal at classic Japanese low tables (chabudai).
Photograph:ν-type
The restaurant’s signature dish, the "Original Ochazuke," is offered in three varieties.
Pictured here is the "Mizuna" version. The set includes a seasonal side dish, dashimaki (Japanese rolled omelet), and akamiso soup. The dashimaki is especially notable for its rich dashi flavor that deeply satisfies with every bite.
Photograph:Gerhard7
The photo shows the "Canola Flower" dish, ordered for dinner. The meal includes six different items, such as sashimi, seasonal specialties, and an assorted platter of pickles.
Both the variety and the portions are generous, making this a kaiseki-style meal that offers excellent value. For your second serving of rice, you can enjoy it as ochazuke (rice with tea or broth).
ひまわりちゃんですよ
The calm and relaxing atmosphere was wonderful. We ordered the canola flower and steak. The sashimi, featuring pike conger and yuba, as well as the seasonal small dishes, were also delicious. I look forward to visiting again.
Source:ひまわりちゃんですよ's review
norimasa_0612
I always make it a point to visit whenever I'm in Kyoto. Conveniently located along Marutamachi Street, just steps from the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Marutamachi Junidan Ya is renowned for its original ochazuke and beef dishes. This time, I chose the canola flower course, which features sashimi, a seasonal dish, an assorted platter of pickles, Japanese rolled omelet, simmered items, and rice. The rolled omelet is especially delicious, and the seasonal dish is of exceptional quality. The rice is perfectly cooked with meticulous attention to detail.
Source:norimasa_0612's review
Marutamachi Junidan Ya
Marutamachi Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 2,000 - JPY 2,999
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JPY 1,000 - JPY 1,999
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Wednesday
京都府京都市中京区烏丸丸太町西入
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Photograph:アルボス
Koryouri Takaya is located just a five-minute walk from Kyoto Station and is widely praised for offering authentic kaiseki cuisine at a great price.
The restaurant features counter seating only, providing a calm and refined Japanese atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy their meal.
Photograph:よし大阪
The recommended dinner is the Omakase course, which features around eight seasonal dishes, including a beautifully arranged Hassun platter.
Each dish is crafted with carefully selected seasonal ingredients and served at the peak of its flavor, reflecting the chef’s strong commitment to quality.
The dish pictured is "Tempura of Young Ayu from Lake Biwa," served as a fried specialty.
It is topped with grated karasumi (dried mullet roe) and awayuki salt. The subtle bitterness of the young ayu is beautifully balanced by the richness of the karasumi and the delicate awayuki salt.
いなとし0905
I was looking for an authentic Kyoto restaurant near Kyoto Station and happened to secure a reservation here. Every aspect was perfect—the flavors matched my preferences, the dishes were prepared with great care, the timing was impeccable, the selection of sake was excellent, and both the chef and staff were exceptionally attentive. Honestly, I almost don’t want this place to become any more well-known.
Source:いなとし0905's review
Mi2mameta
In conclusion, I believe this is an outstanding restaurant. Each dish is served at a perfectly timed pace and is delicious. The staff provide thorough explanations of each course, making it a highly recommended place to dine. I definitely look forward to visiting again.
Source:Mi2mameta's review
Koryouri Takaya
Kyoto Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 10,000 - JPY 14,999
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JPY 2,000 - JPY 2,999
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Sunday
京都府京都市下京区七条通烏丸西入西境町165GEM7 1F
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Shunsai Sakuya is located about a 3-minute drive from Imadegawa Station.
The restaurant offers a cozy setting with around 10 counter seats and a small raised seating area for groups of four. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a traditional kappo-style Japanese restaurant.
Photograph:酒野夢蔵
Many guests choose the omakase course for dinner, which features nine carefully crafted dishes. Each course highlights the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients, prepared with refined yet simple techniques.
With a variety of dishes offered at a reasonable price, guests consistently report a high level of satisfaction.
The photo features a main dish of simmered flounder and eggplant, accompanied by ponzu chicken kara-age and a canola flower and okara (soy pulp) dish.
The flounder is gently simmered until tender, while the eggplant retains a satisfying texture.
sukej327
A true highlight of any visit to Kyoto, Shunsai Sakuya is well worth planning your trip around. The à la carte menu has expanded since last year, offering even more variety. Their Obanzai dishes are an incredible value at just JPY 500. Each dish is generously portioned and crafted with exceptional quality, ensuring a truly satisfying dining experience. Service is attentive and courteous, making for a pleasant and comfortable meal.
Source:sukej327's review
食コン
Absolutely exquisite—truly unforgettable. Kyoto is renowned for its pure water, exceptional dashi culture, and the remarkable skills of its chefs. I was genuinely impressed. Even the Omakase course is typically available at a very reasonable JPY 3,500.
Source:食コン's review
Shunsai Sakuya
Imadegawa Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 5,000 - JPY 5,999
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Monday
京都府京都市上京区元北小路町176
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Top Kaiseki Restaurants in Kyoto: Exceptional Lunches at Great Prices
Photograph:bottan
Wagokoro Izumi is located in Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, just a 3-minute walk from Shijo Station. The interior decor, including the alcove flowers and hanging scrolls, is thoughtfully changed to reflect the seasons and traditional festivals.
This restaurant is highly recommended for those looking to enjoy authentic kaiseki cuisine at an affordable price.
Photograph:田端ジロ
The restaurant is renowned for its dedication to creating dashi broths that highlight the natural flavors of each ingredient. Their process involves carefully simmering Rishiri kombu kelp that has been cold-infused since the previous day, and adding cooled dashi just before boiling to achieve a refined taste.
Guests can enjoy the gentle, delicate seasoning that is characteristic of Kyoto cuisine.
Photograph:ブルーブルー34
There are three different lunch courses available, each at a different price point. All dishes are served omakase-style, and reservations are required.
The photo shows a "hassun" platter offered during the autumn season. It features premium edamame called "Murasakizukin," along with steamed rice topped with conger eel and chestnuts, among other delicacies.
kenzie
Wagokoro Izumi offers an exceptional dining experience with a superb atmosphere. Each dish is carefully prepared, and the attention to detail truly shines through. Not only are the ingredients of the highest quality, but the chef’s refined sense of taste is evident in every pairing and seasoning. The presentation is beautiful, and every bite is a delight.
Source:kenzie's review
Dr.とんちゃん
The presentation of each dish is stunning—the food is a feast for the eyes, and the beautiful tableware adds to the experience. The first course was served in an adorable kabuto-shaped bowl, which was especially charming. The soup featured hana sansho, a delightful touch that brought me great joy. Savoring the flavors of the season in Kyoto through these dishes made for a truly exceptional lunch.
Source:Dr.とんちゃん's review
Wagokoro Izumi
Shijo Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 20,000 - JPY 29,999
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JPY 10,000 - JPY 14,999
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Monday
京都府京都市下京区烏丸仏光寺東入ル一筋目南入ル匂天神町634-3
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Photograph:yama-log
Kyo Kamigamo Oryori Akiyama offers authentic kaiseki cuisine at an accessible price. Located about a 10-minute walk from Kitayama Station, the restaurant is set in a renovated traditional house.
With just 10 counter seats, the intimate space provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Photograph:yuyuyu0147
The restaurant sources Kyoto vegetables directly from select local farmers. The menu is thoughtfully crafted each day based on the freshest vegetables available.
Even the same type of vegetable is prepared using a variety of cooking techniques, allowing guests to enjoy the unique flavors and textures of each part.
Photograph:daisukeshi
There is only one lunch menu available: "Omakase Lunch."
The chef prepares each dish to highlight the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients, featuring fresh vegetables and seafood sourced from Akashi.
M50408
A return visit after some time. Once again, the dishes were exceptional and I was thoroughly satisfied. While reservations are hard to come by, this is a restaurant I look forward to visiting every season.
Source:M50408's review
yoshi157638
Grilled pike conger (hamo) with summer vegetables, simmered eggplant, corn miso, and a soup featuring Akashi octopus. Assorted sashimi, mackerel, steamed hamo with onions, chicken sukiyaki, and crispy rice. The vegetables and fish at Akiyama are always exceptional. While lunch reservations are hard to secure, the outstanding quality makes you want to return again and again.
Source:yoshi157638's review
Kyo Kamigamo Oryori Akiyama
Kitayama Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 15,000 - JPY 19,999
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JPY 8,000 - JPY 9,999
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Wednesday
京都府京都市北区上賀茂岡本町58
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Photograph:★BELL★
Aji Fukushima is located just a 4-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station. This restaurant is known for offering seasonal kaiseki cuisine at a reasonable price.
Guests are welcomed into a clean and bright tatami-style dining area, where shoes are removed for a traditional Japanese experience.
Photograph:うにくまる
For lunch, only the "Lunch Omakase Course" is available.
The dishes are known for their delicate flavors that highlight the natural taste of each ingredient. Presentation and tableware are elegant, and the course features a generous variety of dishes, each crafted with exceptional quality.
Photograph:246_246
The photo features the restaurant’s signature bento box as the main dish.
At the center is maitake mushroom rice, accompanied by a variety of side dishes such as grilled butterfish marinated in yuzu and soy sauce, roast duck, and more. Many reviews also praise the delicious dashimaki tamago (Japanese rolled omelet).
joyちゃん
Given the quality of the cuisine, the location, and the atmosphere, the prices here are truly reasonable. Every dish features delicate flavors—not bland, but beautifully refined and clearly crafted with care. These are the kinds of dishes you simply cannot recreate at home. I wish I had the words to do it justice. It's also easy to visit alone and sit at the counter, so I look forward to coming back to try different seasonal menus.
Source:joyちゃん's review
tony steve
I previously visited for dinner and was so impressed that I returned for lunch. The food was, as expected, exceptional. The dashi broth was deeply flavorful, and the selection of Japanese sake was excellent. Located in the heart of Gion, the setting is ideal—you remove your shoes before entering. Take a seat at the counter, and you’re transported to a paradise of Japanese cuisine.
Source:tony steve's review
Aji Fukushima
Gion Shijo Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 20,000 - JPY 29,999
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JPY 6,000 - JPY 7,999
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Sunday
京都府京都市東山区祇園町南側570
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Photograph:rt1103n
Located just a 4-minute walk from Arashiyama Station, Nishiki offers an authentic Kyoto dining experience where you can enjoy the city's seasonal atmosphere and flavors.
The restaurant serves kaiseki cuisine featuring Kyoto vegetables and seasonal ingredients such as hamo (pike conger) and ayu (sweetfish), all at a reasonable price.
Photograph:カヨカヨ
The "Sakurashuku Zen Course," available for lunch, features a monthly changing selection of kaiseki dishes.
Pictured is the "Sakurashuku Zen" from a particular season (upper and lower tiers), which includes specialties such as beef and burdock root rolls and Korin-style turnip. Each dish is beautifully presented and visually stunning.
Photograph:carmona
With the "Sakurashukuzen Course," guests can customize their meal by adding one to four extra dishes for an additional fee. The selection of these dishes changes each month.
The photo shows a "chuuzara" from one particular season, featuring Yamashina eggplant, duck breast, and green beans.
hito591
Located near Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Nishiki features a traditional sukiya-style building. Specializing in Oushukuzen cuisine, each dish is beautifully presented in elegant box trays and crafted with refined skill. Experience the authentic charm and seasonal atmosphere of Kyoto with every meal.
Source:hito591's review
YMCO
Located along the riverside in Arashiyama, Kyoto, just across the Togetsukyo Bridge, Nishiki offers a refined Japanese dining experience. I ordered the Sakura Shukuzen course, which features seven beautifully balanced dishes. The meal began with deep-fried tofu with mustard, followed by sea bream sashimi, noodles with duck, a two-tiered main course, ume rice porridge, and finished with a delicate jelly. Each dish was delicious and thoughtfully prepared. The warm hospitality was evident throughout the meal. It was a wonderful dining experience.
Source:YMCO's review
Nishiki
Arashiyama Sta. / Japanese Cuisine, Nabe (Japanese hot pot)
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JPY 10,000 - JPY 14,999
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JPY 6,000 - JPY 7,999
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Tuesday
京都府京都市右京区嵯峨嵐山中ノ島公園内
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Photograph:ta-ma-sa
Shorai An is located just a 9-minute walk from Arashiyama Station. Here, you can enjoy authentic kaiseki cuisine at a reasonable price.
The restaurant features only traditional tatami seating, offering guests the opportunity to dine while appreciating the changing beauty of the surrounding nature throughout the seasons.
Photograph:波乱に満ちたペガ子
Shorai An uses only carefully selected ingredients, including premium Saga tofu.
Guests can enjoy kaiseki cuisine that highlights the natural flavors of each ingredient and features beautifully presented dishes. Every course is generously portioned for a satisfying dining experience.
Photograph:さらりん
The restaurant offers four different types of kaiseki lunch courses. The menu changes with the seasons and according to the availability of ingredients.
Pictured here is the "Shorai" course, which features fresh yuba (tofu skin), yudofu (hot tofu), and an assorted platter of seasonal delicacies.
d0b866
Every dish was delicious—it's hard to choose a favorite. The atmosphere is relaxed, but reservations are essential. Credit cards are accepted. I look forward to visiting again the next time I'm in Kyoto.
Source:d0b866's review
東京のふつうのOL
We reserved the Yuba Shabu course. Every dish was delicately prepared with seasonal ingredients, offering a natural and refined flavor that was truly delicious. While the Yuba Shabu was outstanding, my personal favorite was the Shiraae made with persimmon. The restaurant’s authentic Japanese ambiance made me feel immersed in the spirit of Kyoto. It was a wonderful meal.
Source:東京のふつうのOL's review
Shorai An
Arashiyama Sta. / Japanese Cuisine, Tofu dishes
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JPY 8,000 - JPY 9,999
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JPY 5,000 - JPY 5,999
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Wednesday
京都府京都市右京区嵯峨亀ノ尾町官有地内
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Top Kaiseki Restaurants in Kyoto: The Best Spots for an Exquisite Dinner Experience
Photograph:VOLVO850R
Dojin is located just a 4-minute walk from Sanjo Keihan Station.
Inside, guests are welcomed by a luxurious counter made from a single slab of hinoki cypress. The minimalist interior, reminiscent of a traditional tea room, creates a serene and refined atmosphere.
Photograph:ふひと@広島
The owner, originally from Dazaifu in Fukuoka Prefecture, trained at a renowned Japanese restaurant in Kyoto.
While the presentation is simple, the kaiseki cuisine is crafted around a carefully prepared dashi broth, resulting in dishes with a gentle and refined flavor.
Photograph:かよむす
The dinner course is primarily served omakase style, with the menu changing according to the season.
Pictured is a dish featuring Japanese blue crab, offered during a particular season. The crab is packed with succulent meat and topped with a Tosazu vinegar jelly.
hroh
I visit every January to celebrate the New Year, and this time the menu was a refreshing change, featuring torafugu (tiger pufferfish) as the main course and finishing with duck. The grilled soft roe and charcoal-grilled torafugu in the first half were perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside and juicy inside. I was also pleasantly surprised to enjoy bamboo shoots at this time of year.
Source:hroh's review
まんおじ
Crab dishes at Dojin are truly the pinnacle of happiness. The prices are more reasonable than expected, and every aspect of the experience is satisfying. It’s easy to see why this restaurant is recognized as one of the best in Japan. The Kobako Crab may be a classic choice, but it’s a true treasure chest of flavors.
Source:まんおじ's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Gold winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Dojin
Sanjo Keihan Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 50,000 - JPY 59,999
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京都府京都市左京区仁王門通新柳馬場東入ル菊鉾町291-1
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Photograph:食いしんぼりん
Sottaku Tsukamoto is located just a 3-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station. This renowned restaurant offers elegant Kyoto cuisine, including kaiseki dinners.
It is a popular choice, having been selected for the prestigious Tabelog Award.
Photograph:大阪太郎200
The owner began his culinary career in Kyoto at a young age and went on to hone his skills at several renowned restaurants.
The menu at Sottaku Tsukamoto features authentic Japanese cuisine with a unique, creative twist.
Photograph:ともちゃん
Many guests at Sottaku Tsukamoto choose to order dishes à la carte.
The featured photo shows "Steamed Abalone and Grilled Matsutake Mushroom with Yuzu Jelly." The abalone is tender, and the fragrant grilled matsutake is topped with a refreshing yuzu jelly, creating a truly delightful combination.
pateknautilus40
This is a restaurant I always look forward to visiting. The refined atmosphere is complemented by the heartfelt hospitality of the chef, which creates a warm and welcoming experience. The innovative and artfully crafted dishes here are truly unique—each one is a creation you can enjoy only at Sottaku Tsukamoto.
Source:pateknautilus40's review
京都のグルメ坊主
It may be the first time I've been so deeply impressed by a meal that uses no luxury ingredients whatsoever. This is truly Japanese cuisine at its finest—absolutely flawless. The course was highly satisfying, and I was amazed that it was offered at the reasonable price of JPY 25,000.
Source:京都のグルメ坊主's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Gold winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Sottaku Tsukamoto
Gion Shijo Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 30,000 - JPY 39,999
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Wednesday
京都府京都市東山区祇園町南側570-120
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Photograph:みつごとうさん
Tominokoji Yamagishi is located about a 6-minute walk from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station. The restaurant is renowned for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine, served at dinner.
The intimate interior features just 10 counter seats, designed to evoke the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese tea room.
Photograph:salt
Tominokoji Yamagishi honors the traditions of Kyoto cuisine, offering dishes rooted in the spirit of hospitality found in tea kaiseki.
The menu features a generous selection of seasonal offerings, showcasing local Kyoto ingredients and allowing guests to experience the changing seasons through each dish.
Photograph:ヴェイダー
The photo features the "Sugi Hassun" platter, beautifully arranged with canola flower ohitashi, kazunoko (herring roe) with miso, and more.
The kazunoko with miso pairs especially well with Japanese radish, offering a delightful texture. The moroko fish is prepared right in front of you.
152536
The meal begins with a soothing yuzu rice porridge with clams. The taro is served piping hot and is satisfyingly hearty. The assorted appetizers, presented in a cedar box, evoke the festive spirit of New Year's. The moroko fish is beautifully complemented by an abundance of kinome leaves. The snow crab claw is perfectly cooked, and the soup—made only with well water and white miso—offers a delicate and refined flavor that lingers.
Source:152536's review
#イマオグルメ
Among the very best, this restaurant truly stands out. I had the pleasure of dining here again this year and was thoroughly impressed. Every dish brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients to perfection. Once again, I was reminded of how delicious Japanese radish can be. Thank you for providing such an exceptional experience year after year!
Source:#イマオグルメ's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Silver winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Tominokoji Yamagishi
Kyoto Kawaramachi Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 60,000 - JPY 79,999
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Tuesday
京都府京都市中京区富小路通六角下る骨屋之町560
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Photograph:ぴーたんたん
Kyotenjin Noguchi is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto. Blending seamlessly into the charming, historic streetscape, the restaurant is known for its traditional elegance. It is an 8-minute walk from Kitano-Hakubaicho Station.
Inside, guests can choose between counter seating or private rooms with tables.
Photograph:eb2002621
The restaurant offers only an Omakase course. Each dish is crafted with carefully selected seasonal ingredients, reflecting the beauty of Japan’s four seasons.
The elegant presentation on traditional tableware further enhances the depth and flavor of each creation.
Photograph:カズヤマ63895
The dishes here are generously prepared with premium ingredients such as caviar and truffles.
One of their signature offerings is the "Sea Urchin, Squid, and Caviar Nori Roll" pictured above. This exquisite creation is renowned for its rich umami, balanced saltiness, and subtle sweetness.
yama-log
The new year at Kyotenjin Noguchi began with a special January menu featuring bear shabu-shabu. The bear meat is delicately flavorful with a gentle richness, and the dashi broth with Japanese parsley was a highlight. Other standout dishes included grilled anago (conger eel) and tempura of managatsuo (butterfish), both exceptionally delicious.
Source:yama-log's review
食べ歩き研究員
Total: JPY 55,800. The meal featured a series of impressive and delicious dishes. The luxurious starter, made with steamed abalone, was an excellent way to begin. This strong start was followed by the "Koppe-gani" (female snow crab), which was also outstanding—beautifully prepared for easy enjoyment. Another remarkable dish followed, and I was especially pleased by the delightful texture of my favorite, eel.
Source:食べ歩き研究員's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Silver winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Kyotenjin Noguchi
Kitano Hakubaicho Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 20,000 - JPY 29,999
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京都府京都市上京区天神道上ノ下立売上ル北町573-111F
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Photograph:★BELL★
Goko Machi Tagawa is located an 8-minute walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station. The restaurant features a flat, open seating arrangement with no partition between the dining area and the kitchen.
Housed in a renovated traditional townhouse, the space offers a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Photograph:Chris-chan
This restaurant uses Binchotan charcoal from Kishu and prepares dishes in a specially crafted ceramic hearth.
They feature a wide selection of ingredients, including Kyoto vegetables harvested from their own farm, as well as produce from Aomori and Okinawa.
Photograph:kouranos
The photo features "Kumamoto Kuroge Wagyu Top Blade with Aromatic Mushroom Puree." It is recommended to lightly swish the Kumamoto Kuroge Wagyu top blade in the hot broth just until the color begins to change.
Enjoy the tender top blade by dipping it into a fragrant soup made with aromatic mushrooms.
ydental
Before your meal begins, you are served a cup of gyokuro tea. For the appetizer, a lucky leaf is placed atop a teacup containing tempura of fugu soft roe and kombu-cured fugu, which has been grilled over charcoal. Remove the leaf, mix everything well, and enjoy. I was deeply impressed, as it was my first time experiencing fugu prepared in this way.
Source:ydental's review
Chris-chan
An exceptional kaiseki restaurant where you can enjoy the artistry of dishes prepared right before your eyes. With carefully selected ingredients and presentation unique to Tagawa, the cuisine is outstanding. The immaculate cleanliness and attentive service provide a level of quality and satisfaction difficult to find at larger, more famous establishments. Since my first visit this autumn, it has become one of my top two Kyoto kaiseki experiences.
Source:Chris-chan's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Bronze winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Goko Machi Tagawa
Kyoto Shiyakusho Mae Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 30,000 - JPY 39,999
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京都府京都市中京区夷川通御幸町西入松本町575-1
Reserve online now
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Top Kaiseki Restaurants in Kyoto: From Fine Dining to Exceptional Lunch Spots
Photograph:うどんが主食
Kiyama is located just a 4-minute walk from Marutamachi Station. The restaurant has also received recognition from The Tabelog Award.
Inside, guests are welcomed by a serene and refined atmosphere, offering a calm and spacious dining experience.
Photograph:salt
The owner began his culinary journey at a renowned restaurant at the age of 19, honing his skills for 15 years.
At Kiyama, the pure water drawn from their own well is thoughtfully utilized to create exquisite kaiseki cuisine that reflects the changing seasons.
Photograph:S.Y Nのグルメ日記
Kiyama offers two types of refined lunch menus at different price points.
Depending on the season, you may find unique dishes such as tempura made with rice flour or grilled sea bass. The restaurant is known for using an abundance of rare and distinctive ingredients.
フラワ田
The food was exceptional. It's impressive to enjoy cuisine of this caliber at such a reasonable price. Kyoto's Japanese cuisine truly stands out.
Source:フラワ田's review
kei~
While no meat dishes are served, the menu offers both variety and excellent quality. Considering the recent rise in course meal prices, Kiyama remains surprisingly affordable. For the final rice dish, you can choose both the size and the type, but most guests seem to try every option—and we highly recommend enjoying them all.
Source:kei~'s review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Silver winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Kiyama
Marutamachi Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 30,000 - JPY 39,999
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JPY 15,000 - JPY 19,999
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京都府京都市中京区絹屋町136ヴェルドール御所 1F
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Photograph:頑張れ自分
Miyamaso is an acclaimed fine dining restaurant located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto. The restaurant specializes in "tsumikusa ryori," a unique style of Japanese cuisine that highlights wild herbs and seasonal plants gathered from the surrounding nature.
Guests can choose from counter seating or traditional tatami rooms in the spacious main hall. Some rooms also offer views of a beautifully landscaped garden, providing a serene and elegant dining experience.
Photograph:S.Y Nのグルメ日記
Miyamaso offers a unique dining experience with its signature wild herb cuisine, showcasing the natural flavors of the local landscape.
Depending on the season, guests can enjoy kaiseki courses featuring game meats and river fish. The beautifully arranged dishes reflect the changing seasons, adding to the restaurant’s appeal.
Photograph:romai343
It appears that Miyamaso offers three different lunch options at varying price points.
The photo shows their seasonal "Mountain Vegetable Tempura," featuring a kakiage made with ingredients such as koshiabura, tara no me, and azalea buds.
dayomon
The koi sashimi was a delightful surprise, completely free of any muddy flavor. As it was in season, the ayu (sweetfish) as the highlight of the meal made it truly satisfying. Although dining was in a separate building from the accommodations, the stunning views and serene atmosphere made it easy to relax and linger. The yomogi mochi for dessert was also exceptional—I've never tasted such a rich, fragrant mugwort flavor before!
Source:dayomon's review
ガレットブルトンヌ
Each visit reminds me that the cuisine here is truly one of a kind—something you can only experience at Miyamaso. Every dish reflects the blessings of the beautiful land, pure water, and clear air. I am always eager to return.
Source:ガレットブルトンヌ's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Bronze winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Miyamaso
Kyoto City Sakyo Ward etc / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 20,000 - JPY 29,999
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JPY 20,000 - JPY 29,999
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京都府京都市左京区花脊原地町大悲山
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Photograph:kurea
Soujiki Nakahigashi is located about an 8-minute drive from Mototanaka Station. This renowned restaurant specializes in premium kaiseki cuisine inspired by traditional foraged ingredients.
The restaurant offers both counter seating and private rooms. Reservations are required.
Photograph:sumipion
After graduating from high school, the owner trained under the previous head chef and developed a distinctive style that makes white rice the centerpiece of the meal.
He uses ingredients he gathers himself, creating dishes that capture the essence of each season on every plate.
Photograph:Pokopann
For lunch, Soujiki Nakahigashi offers only one Omakase course. The featured photo shows the main dish, accompanied by grilled dried sardine (mezashi), rice, and pickles.
For an additional charge, you can enjoy your rice as Tamago Kake Gohan (rice topped with raw egg). The crispy, aromatic rice is so delicious that many guests ask for extra helpings.
sumipion
Dojo (loach), kuri kinton (sweet chestnut paste), smoked black soybeans, pumpkin and adzuki beans with red turnip, yukimochi (snow rice cake), and smoked venison with apple. The smoked black soybeans had a pleasantly chewy texture and were delicious. The combination of smoked venison and apple brought out the best in both flavors.
Source:sumipion's review
グルメマニア男2020
The dishes were exceptionally delicious and suited my personal taste. The Spanish mackerel marinated with mandarin oranges was especially memorable. I look forward to visiting again in the evening. It was a wonderful meal.
Source:グルメマニア男2020's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Silver winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Soujiki Nakahigashi
Mototanaka Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 30,000 - JPY 39,999
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JPY 10,000 - JPY 14,999
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Monday
京都府京都市左京区浄土寺石橋町32-3
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Photograph:yama-log
Higashiyama Yoshihisa is located an 8-minute walk from Shichijo Station. Recognized as one of Tabelog 100 Japanese Restaurant in Western Japan, this acclaimed establishment is known for its exceptional cuisine.
The interior, set within a renovated traditional townhouse, offers an elegant and refined atmosphere.
Photograph:bottan
The owner is dedicated to constant innovation and evolution. Each month, the restaurant introduces a new culinary concept, crafting creative and original course menus with a free-spirited approach.
The chef holds various certifications—including Japanese sake sommelier and licensed fugu (pufferfish) chef—which are reflected in the cuisine.
Photograph:yossy1
The restaurant offers a single, premium lunch course. The menu for the kaiseki cuisine changes with the seasons.
Guests can enjoy watching the chef prepare each dish right in front of them, making for an engaging and memorable dining experience.
drkck
Thank you for a wonderful meal, especially considering the rising price of crab. Despite how challenging it must be with costs increasing every year, I thoroughly enjoyed every dish. The signature Crab Tenshin-han was the perfect way to end the meal. It was a fitting course to conclude the year.
Source:drkck's review
ぱんだコぱんだ@きょうと
When it comes to this season, crab is a must. At Higashiyama Yoshihisa, their crab dishes have become a signature, yet each year they introduce creative new touches. As a guest, it's a pleasure to experience both the comforting familiarity and the sense of freshness. The sukiyaki, in particular, is perfectly cooked with exquisite timing. We look forward to seeing this esteemed restaurant continue to thrive and evolve.
Source:ぱんだコぱんだ@きょうと's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Silver winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Higashiyama Yoshihisa
Shichijo Sta. / Japanese Cuisine
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JPY 30,000 - JPY 39,999
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JPY 10,000 - JPY 14,999
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Wednesday
京都府京都市東山区妙法院前側町422
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Photograph:東京ふらふら
Hassun is located in Higashiyama, Kyoto, just a 3-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station. Tucked away in the heart of Gion, the restaurant offers a quiet and refined atmosphere.
Inside, there are 12 counter seats as well as traditional Japanese tatami seating.
Photograph:hiro0827
At Hassun, guests can enjoy kaiseki cuisine that reflects the changing seasons. The owner honed his craft in Tokyo and now leads the restaurant as the second-generation chef.
The kaiseki dishes, perfected over two generations, are renowned for their depth of flavor and refined taste.
Photograph:taxx
The lunch menu consists exclusively of a premium "Omakase Kaiseki" course.
The photo shows one example of a seasonal lunch menu item, "Takiawase," featuring simmered Shogoin turnip, deep-fried tofu, mizuna greens, and other ingredients.
黄色のたぬき
The portions were just right. As mentioned earlier, the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere made for lively conversation and an enjoyable experience. While not flashy, it is a place that offers a sense of comfort and reliability. It’s the kind of restaurant you’ll want to revisit in different seasons, and one you’ll be eager to recommend to others.
Source:黄色のたぬき's review
muddyfox1018
The lunch course at Hassun is exceptionally delicious and offered at a great price, with no compromise on quality. The teamwork and friendly conversation between the second-generation chef and his apprentice add to the experience. This is a restaurant you'll want to visit again and again, especially as the seasons change.
Source:muddyfox1018's review
The Tabelog Award 2025 Bronze winner
Selected for Tabelog Japanese cuisine WEST "Tabelog 100" 2025
Hassun
Gion Shijo Sta. / Japanese Cuisine, Suppon (Soft-shell turtle)
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JPY 20,000 - JPY 29,999
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JPY 10,000 - JPY 14,999
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Sunday
京都府京都市東山区祇園末吉町95
Reserve online now
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