66tantan (Rokuroku Tantan) — Restaurant in Kyoto

We stumbled across this place on Google and were definitely not disappointed. It’s tucked away in a narrow alleyway and, to be honest, is tiny — with space for no more than six customers. There’s only one chef who cooks, serves, and cleans, which makes it feel like you’re at a friend’s place being served their best homemade meal.

So be patient — if there are customers before you, you’ll have to wait a bit, but it’s never too long. We ordered the dan dan noodles — one with coriander and one with fried chicken. Even the “non-spicy” version still has a kick, so let the chef know if you’d like less spice. Before serving, he’ll also check if you have a peanut allergy.

And the food? In one word: superb. Rich, flavorful broth, fresh ingredients — even the coriander is opened and chopped right in front of you. The fried chicken was also perfectly marinated, not just coated in plain flour. Pro tip: add a bit of vinegar or balsamic sauce to the soup to take it to the next level.

The chef speaks English very well, and most of the customers weren’t native Japanese.

The only downside was the ventilation. Since it’s such a small space and everything is cooked right in front of you, the fried food smell can feel a bit strong — especially on hot days. That said, the owner kindly opens the door to improve airflow.

Overall, this is a cosy, delicious, and unique spot well...

If you find yourself in Kyoto’s Gion District, you must seek out this hidden gem of a noodle restaurant that just opened last month. As someone who travels far and wide in search of the best culinary experiences, I can confidently say this spot redefines what it means to serve an exceptional bowl of noodles.

The experience here was truly unique, especially for my wife, who only eats chicken. The staff went above and beyond to make her feel welcome, crafting a version of Dan Dan noodles that is unlike anything else you'll find in Japan. Imagine a rich, creamy chicken broth with none of the spice you'd expect, instead delivering a smooth and comforting flavor profile that is both sophisticated and soul-satisfying. The dish is finished with perfectly crispy chicken karaage, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the noodles.

This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that embodies the essence of Japanese culinary mastery with a fresh twist. But here’s the catch—this place is new, and word is going to get out fast. I urge you to visit before it becomes so popular that securing a seat becomes a challenge. Trust me, this is a noodle experience you do not...

Dining at 66tantan (Rokuroku Tantan) was truly an exceptional experience. This place completely changed my perspective on what makes great food—it doesn’t always have to be “traditional” to be absolutely delicious, as long as it’s made with care and skill. Every dish here is crafted with such attention to detail that you can genuinely taste the passion behind the cooking.

One of my favorite parts of the meal was the chance to sit at the counter and watch the owner prepare each dish right in front of me. There’s something special about seeing your food being made, and it really added a personal touch to the entire experience. The owner was so sweet and welcoming, making the meal feel warm and intimate, as if you were eating at a friend’s kitchen rather than a restaurant.

66tantan definitely has a “local” feel—cozy and unpretentious, but with food that easily rivals much bigger, more formal spots. If you want a place where incredible flavors and genuine hospitality come together, this is it. I left feeling happy, satisfied, and eager to come back for more. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and...