AIN SOPH. Journey KYOTO — Restaurant in Kyoto

Visit: Oct 1st,2024

During our recent trip to Kyoto in October 2024, as vegetarians, we had researched vegan-friendly spots beforehand and came across AIN SOPH. After two exhausting days of exploring the city, we decided to visit this place for lunch.

Arriving around 3:00 pm, the restaurant wasn't too crowded, and we were seated on the first floor. We ordered a cheese burger, green curry, and soy fritters. The green curry was absolutely fantastic—full of flavor yet light. The burger was also quite good, and the portion sizes was generous, easily enough for two. The soy-based chicken fritters were juicy and tasty, definitely a must-try.

To accompany our meal, we ordered a locally crafted beer, which was refreshing. The service was prompt, and the staff were very polite and accommodating. One suggestion, though—the first floor felt a bit warm, likely due to limited air circulation. If you're visiting during a warmer day, try to get a table on the ground floor or ask for a fan.

Their last order is at 4 pm, and they close at 5 pm, so plan accordingly. It’s also worth noting that they tend to get busier during peak tourist seasons, so there may be time constraints. They provide free water and have clean restroom facilities for guests.

While we didn’t try the desserts, our overall experience was excellent. This place is highly recommended, not just for vegans, but for anyone looking for a tasty and wholesome...

I was excited to visit Ain Soph after reading so many great reviews. When we arrived a sign outside stated No Burgers were available. Disappointing, but ok. When we were given the menu, there were many post it notes stating items weren't available. That's ok, we chose what was. When we ordered we were told the coffee machine was broken... ok... we chose other drinks. Then we waited, and waited. We could see the kitchen from where we were sat. We could see three or four people working in the kitchen. Two staff waiting on tables. To our surprise we started to see burgers coming out of the kitchen. The sign and post it notes said they were out of stock! After a long wait two of the side dishes we ordered arrived. But no mains. We waited for the mains, but they didn't appear, we decided to eat the side dishes... they were greasy and bland. After another 20 minutes my food arrived but not my partners. We asked the server, she apologised and said it was on its way... I ate my food as it was going cold. It was ok, not worth the wait. After 45 minutes we gave up waiting for my partner's food. The waitress apologized saying the kitchen were just starting to make it!!! Terrible service. Bland and non existent food. Avoid this overhyped...

After dinner, we decided on getting dessert at AIN SOPH. Journey Kyoto. The menu is available in English. I got the matcha pancakes and the white wine sangria. Let me start off by saying before we came to the Kyoto location, we originally heard of it when we visited their other location in Tokyo. The matcha pancakes are exclusive to the location in Kyoto, so I wanted to be sure to get it while we were in Kyoto. They were so pretty, I didn't even want to eat them! But, when I got over it and finally did they were sooooo good. I love matcha everything, so maybe I am a tad bit bias on this review! They were also very filling and I was unable to finish them, so my husband did. :) Also the white wine sangria was very good! It had a floral flavor to it, which I was not expecting, but it was also divine. We went in the evening on a Sunday night and it was very quiet and peaceful so that was another plus. I loved the style and attention to detail at this restaurant. If you are in Kyoto and you're vegan, this is for sure a place you want to check out, at least to score some matcha pancakes, if...