When you think of Kyoto, you probably think of temples, geisha-lined alleys, and cherry blossom leaves. But here’s something else you shouldn’t miss, Kyoto’s food scene. Even if it’s a Michelin-star meal or a simple bowl of tofu, every restaurant in Kyoto tells a story through seasonal ingredients and centuries-old culinary traditions.
In this blog, we’re diving into 7 must-visit restaurants in Kyoto, from traditional kaiseki to sizzling wagyu BBQ. So, if good food is part of how you experience a city, this list is a great place to start!
1. Nanzenji Junsei
Comforting yudofu meal at Nanzenji Junsei
If you're looking for a traditional place to eat in Kyoto, Nanzenji Junsei is the perfect pick. Right next to Nanzenji Temple, this restaurant specializes in Yudofu, a warm tofu dish that’s soft and comforting. You’ll sit in a tatami room with views of a calm Japanese garden, it's peaceful and totally relaxing.
What makes this restaurant special is how it focuses on plant-based flavors. You’ll get a full kaiseki set with dishes like tofu skin (yuba), simmered vegetables, and seasonal treats. It's a great way to taste real Kyoto-style temple food.
🥢Best dish: Yudofu kaiseki set with handmade yuba and simmered tofu
2. Guenpin Fugu
Fugu meal at Guenpin Fugu
Feeling adventurous? Head to Guenpin Fugu in Gion to try fugu, Japan’s famous pufferfish. Don’t worry, it’s totally safe here. The chefs are licensed and trained to prepare it the right way. You can try it as sashimi, hot pot, or even fried.
If you've always been curious about rare Japanese dishes, this is your chance. The hot pot, called tecchiri, is especially popular. It's filled with fresh fish, vegetables, and a rich broth that warms you up.
🥢Best dish: Tecchiri (fugu hot pot) with vegetables and rich broth
3. Gion Kawakami
Kaiseki meal at Guenpin Fugu
Looking for a fancy night out? Gion Kawakami is one of Kyoto’s top kaiseki spots. Here, every dish is made with fresh seasonal ingredients and presented like a piece of art. You’ll taste flavors that match the time of year, like matsutake mushrooms in fall or pike conger in summer.
Each course is beautifully arranged, and the restaurant is located right in Gion, one of Kyoto’s most charming neighborhoods. Come in the evening when the streets are glowing with lanterns, it’s a magical time to dine!
🥢Best dish: Seasonal kaiseki course
4. Shigetsu
shojin ryori at Shigetsu
If you’re spending time near the bamboo forest in Arashiyama, don’t miss Shigetsu, a quiet restaurant inside Tenryu-ji Temple. Here, you’ll try shojin ryori, a plant-based Buddhist meal made with simple, seasonal ingredients. Even if you’re not vegetarian, you’ll be surprised at how flavorful the dishes are.
You’ll sit on tatami mats and enjoy tofu, root vegetables, and light broths in a peaceful setting. This is more than just a meal, it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and enjoy the calm side of Kyoto.
🥢Best dish: Tsuki seasonal shojin ryori set with tofu, vegetables, and plant-based broth dishes
5. Tempura Endo Yasaka
Fried to perfection tempura at Tempura Endo Yasaka
If you love tempura, you’re in for a treat at Tempura Endo Yasaka. This spot in Gion is famous for its light, crispy Kyoto-style tempura. Each piece is fried fresh and served right away, never greasy, always flavorful.
You’ll enjoy seasonal seafood and vegetables, like shrimp, white fish, and mountain veggies. Everything is cooked just right to keep the natural taste. It’s a great choice for a fancy lunch or dinner.
🥢Best dish: Seasonal tempura course with shrimp, white fish (kisu), and Kyoto vegetables
6. Shuhaku
A Michelin-star meal from Shuhaku
For a memorable meal, book a table at Shuhaku, a Michelin-starred restaurant that mixes traditional Japanese cooking with a hint of French flair. You’ll enjoy a multi-course kaiseki meal with local Kyoto ingredients, like sashimi, seasonal vegetables, and sometimes something fancy like foie gras or abalone.
This place stands out for its creative dishes and warm atmosphere. It’s perfect for a special lunch or dinner, especially if you’re near Gion or Higashiyama. People love the desserts too, so save room!
🥢Best dish: Seasonal kaiseki course with sashimi and foie gras-style abalone
7. Itamae Yakiniku Issho
A4+ grade Kuroge Wagyu from Itamae Yakiniku Issho
Want something fun and hands-on? Check out Itamae Yakiniku Issho near Shijo Kiyamachi. This yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurant lets you grill your own juicy wagyu beef right at your table. The meat is top quality A4+ grade Kuroge Wagyu from Kyushu.
The staff is super friendly and will help you choose the best cuts, like ribeye or chateaubriand. It’s a great spot for groups, birthdays, or just a fun night out. If you’re craving meat, this is one of the best restaurants in Kyoto for you.
🥢Best dish: Wagyu BBQ set with Chateaubriand and ribeye cuts
Tips for dining in Kyoto
1. Make reservations ahead of time
Many of Kyoto’s top restaurants are small and fill up fast, especially kaiseki and Michelin-star places. If you know where you want to go, it’s smart to book a table in advance. You can use services like Klook to reserve in English!
2. Don’t rush your meal
Kyoto meals, especially kaiseki, are meant to be enjoyed slowly. Take your time to savor each dish, notice the presentation, and enjoy the peaceful vibe. It’s all part of the experience.
3. Try something new
Kyoto’s food may be different from what you’re used to, like tofu dishes, fugu (pufferfish), or matcha-flavored meals. Be open to trying things you wouldn’t normally order. You might find a new favorite!
4. Respect local dining etiquette
Be polite when eating out, say itadakimasu before eating and gochisousama after your meal to show appreciation. Also, avoid talking loudly in quiet restaurants or answering your phone at the table.
FAQs about restaurants in Kyoto
What is famous to eat in Kyoto?
Kyoto is known for its kaiseki meals, yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha sweets, and shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). These foods highlight local ingredients and traditional cooking styles that have been passed down for centuries.
What are the best traditional restaurants in Kyoto?
Nanzenji Junsei, Gion Kawakami, and Shigetsu are top picks for traditional dining. They offer peaceful settings and meals that reflect Kyoto’s history, using seasonal and plant-based ingredients.
What are Kyoto's Michelin star restaurants?
Kyoto has many Michelin-starred restaurants, and Shuhaku is a great one to try. It offers creative, seasonal dishes in a friendly and intimate setting.
How much should I budget for food in Kyoto?
Budget about ¥3,000–¥6,000 for lunch and ¥6,000–¥20,000+ for dinner at nicer restaurants. Street food and casual places are cheaper, but it's worth splurging at least once on a kaiseki or wagyu meal.
What do locals eat in Kyoto?
Locals enjoy simple, seasonal meals like grilled fish, miso soup, tofu, and pickled veggies. Kyoto cuisine focuses on balance and freshness, often with less seasoning than food from other parts of Japan.
Ready to eat your way through Kyoto?
There’s no better way to understand a city than by tasting it, and Kyoto is full of flavor. From tofu by the temple to sizzling wagyu downtown, each restaurant in Kyoto brings something special to the table!
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Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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