Cafe Hassui — Restaurant in Kyoto

Visited Cafe Hassui on 21AUG2018 after our walk along the bamboo grove. From the bamboo grove there’s a trail down to the river and you’ll end up just behind the Suiran compound (the hotel which houses Cafe Hassui). I made a booking online (through a 3rd party reservation website) 2 days prior to be seated by the river, for the afternoon tea set. The staff welcomed us, took us to our table and explained the afternoon tea set to us. It was extremely humid that day and there was no breeze, we moved back inside to air conditioning comfort. I’m slightly lactose intolerant and they accommodated by switching out the items containing cream. It was our 10 year anniversary and the Cafe made us a special dessert which was extremely thoughtful of them. I read in other reviews that some people were not impressed with the food so let me be very clear in terms of what to expect since tastes vary and some people have a preference towards the heavier flavours: Every piece of food on the afternoon menu was a bite size wonder - not mind blowing like a piece of perfectly stewed saucy pork belly, but balanced and delicate in taste and texture - to be enjoyed in quiet close company. And very Insta-worthy.

We had an incident after we left and had to call the Cafe for assistance. Cafe Hassui went above and beyond the existing high standard of Japanese hospitality to accommodate for us long outside of their operating hours. Simply incredible service.

We have every intention to visit Cafe Hassui again late autumn as the location of the Cafe will be incredible to snuggle up with a big woolly jumper, a hot cup of cocoa, and enjoy the red leaves scenery with the trickling sound...

Been to Arashiyama many times but my very first time to this Japanese restaurant.

We had a reservation, arrived early and were politely received at the entrance.

The restaurant isn't very large, and we're seated with a handful patrons around. Ordered the signature tra set and beef rice.

Everything of the tea set, be it savory or sweet dishes, all are impeccable, fresh and lovely seasoned. All the dishes are small but nicely presented like a work of art. There is a lovely free flow of drinks, started with an incredible glass of bubble. The beef rice is also perfect, fresh, perfectly seasoned with a small plate of frsh veggie.

We are tourist but the staff are very helpful and professional, trying to make us understand and feel respected.

The atmosphere is simply beyond perfection. There is Kataura River right near the restaurant where you enjoy the gourmet with the beautiful nature of Arashiyama.

I've been to Japan many many times but this is surely thus far my best dining experience. I'd rate a 6-star...

I visited Hassui on 17 May, requested for an outdoor seats overlooking the river through online booking. If you are someone like me who appreciates ambience and serenity when I dine, you will love this place. Yes, is a little pricey but I already knew when I booked this place. I have chosen the high tea set which comes in a box of savory items and 3 tiers of sweets. Tasty finger food and sweets. On the online booking, they will ask if the visit is for any occasion and I stated is for my birthday. To my surprise, they prepared a cake with candles. The staff are attentive and ask if I need refill for my tea. There is a Korean staff who looks like some Korean actor and he speaks good English. He is well mannered and being good looking is a bonus. Would I visit Cafe Hassui again? Yes and probably stay...