Where to eat in Kyoto: 13 Best places to eat in Kyoto

Kyoto is famous for its mix of traditional and modern flavours, offering a wide range of eating experiences that capture the spirit of Japanese cuisine. This guide shows you where to eat in Kyoto, and introduces the 13 best places to eat in Kyoto. Whether you are looking for a luxurious meal or a quick bite at a Nishiki market, there’s always something to eat in Kyoto for every taste and budget.

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To explore more about what to do in Kyoto, check out our Kyoto 2 Days Itinerary, which provides a perfect plan for a short visit in Kyoto, and covering the city’s iconic places which you definitely have to see!

Well, we assume, you also need to stay somewhere, so we also created an specific article about accommodation in Kyoto. Kindly check article about where to stay in Kyoto, which offers insights into the best hotels, ryokan, and hostels to suit your needs and budget. Anyway, let’s get back to our list of the best places to eat in Kyoto!

Kaiseki: The Art of Japanese Haute Cuisine

Kaiseki, a refined multi-course dining experience, is a must-try in Kyoto. Known for its emphasis on seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation, Kaiseki offers a taste of Japan’s high culinary arts.

Tofu Delights

Tofu in Kyoto is definitely an experience. Tofu can be savored in many forms from savory to sweet, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists in Kyoto.

The Best places to eat in Kyoto

The list of the best places to eat in Kyoto is sorted according to their speciality. And, honestly, these places are definitely worth a shot. So, once you are in Kyoto, you should really try at least one of them!

Teppanyaki 

At Premium Pound Gion, you get the skilled chefs cook Kobe beef in teppanyaki-style. This place is in the Gion area, close to Yasaka Shrine, which adds a traditional touch to your dining experience, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy great food in a classic Kyoto setting.

Tempura

Yoshikawa Tempura in downtown Kyoto and Tempura Endo Yasaka in Gion are both fantastic choices for tempura lovers. Yoshikawa Tempura is known for its elegant setting and meticulous preparation, making each bite a delight. Meanwhile, Tempura Endo Yasaka offers a scenic dining experience in the heart of Gion, known for its traditional atmosphere and exceptional tempura dishes.

Ramen

For a great ramen experience in Kyoto, check out Ippudo, located downtown near Nishiki market. This spot is famous for its rich flavors and perfectly cooked noodles. Alternatively, Gion Ramen Muraji in the Gion district offers a unique take on ramen in a setting that captures the traditional essence of Kyoto.

Udon

For delicious Udon in Kyoto, head to Omen in Northern Higashiyama, near the iconic Ginkaku-ji. Omen is celebrated for its traditional approach to these hearty noodles, offering a variety of flavorful broths. Another great spot is Okakita, also in Northern Higashiyama, near the Kyoto City Zoo. Okakita is known for its thick, chewy noodles and richly seasoned dishes that capture the essence of Kyoto’s culinary tradition.

Sushi 

For a classic Japanese Sushi, try Kaitenzushi Chojiro Shijo-Kiyamachi in downtown Kyoto, where you can enjoy sushi via a fun and interactive conveyor belt system. Kaitenzushi Chojiro has two locations in Kyoto, and it’s totally up to you which one you choose.

Tofu

Well, Kyoto is definitely ready for tofu enthusiasts! And if you are one of them, Yodofu Sagana in Arashiyama is a must-visit. This restaurant specializes in tofu dishes that showcase the versatility and delicate flavors of tofu.

Sukiyaki 

For a cozy meal on chilly evenings, head to Kanoko in downtown Kyoto. This restaurant is renowned for its delicious traditional Japanese dishes that are perfect for warming up. Kanoko offers a welcoming, intimate atmosphere where you can enjoy Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

Shabu shabu

For a heartwarming meal visit Tonshabu Hide in downtown Kyoto, conveniently located near Shijo subway station. This restaurant specializes in shabu shabu, a Japanese hot pot that offers a comforting and interactive dining experience.

Izakaya

For a Japanese pub experience, head to Sakedokoro Terayama in downtown Kyoto, near Shijo-dori. This Izakaya offers a lively atmosphere paired with a diverse menu of traditional Japanese dishes and drinks, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy an authentic, casual dining experience.

Kaiseki

When you feel like splurging, definitely visit one of the Kyoto’s Kaiseki cuisine! With over a hundred Michelin-starred restaurants, many of which specialize in Kaiseki, Kyoto offers an unparalleled array of choices for an exquisite meal.

Niskiki Market

And of course, there’s always Nishiki Market, a vibrant food hub in the heart of Kyoto. This marketplace is packed with food stalls that offer a wide variety of local delicacies and snacks. It’s the perfect place to sample almost everything from Japanese cuisine, making it a must-visit for any food lover looking to explore the authentic flavors of Kyoto.

Respect Japanese dining etiquette while traveling

When dining in Kyoto, you should also respect Japanese dining etiquette to improve your food experience and also to show respect to the chefs. Familiarize yourself with local customs such as saying “itadakimasu” before eating and “gochisosama” after your meal to express gratitude. Remember to handle chopsticks correctly, avoid pointing with them, and never stick them upright in your bowl.

Food Tours in Kyoto

If you’re looking to fancy Kyoto’s culinary scene more deeply or if you prefer guided experiences, consider booking a food tour in Kyoto. Food tours often offer the unique advantage od discovering some of the hidden gems in the city, and helping you to find where to eat in Kyoto. And some of these tours are including also restaurants from our list of the best places to eat in Kyoto as well! So, if you prefer to eat in groups, or just meeting a new people, who can become your new friends, it’s always a pefect way to go.

Are you having any other ideas about where to eat in Kyoto? Share them with us in the comment section!