Gion Mizuoka — Restaurant in Kyoto

We chanced upon this place through random searches on Google Maps, and boy, did we find a gem! We were treated to a lovely feast, comprising a variety of Japanese fare. My boyfriend thinks this comment isn't concise enough, but what can I say, too many words are required to fully encapsulate the wonderful experience we had here :) food wise, I thoroughly enjoyed the fatty beef that was practically swimming in its own oil. The steamed turnip was... an acquired taste though :/ they also make you work a little bit for your food too - cue the gingko nuts you have to peel yourself. So all in all, the food was a 4/5 at best. But! What made the experience so absolutely magical was the loveable owner. The husband and wife pair never ceased to entertain us throughout our meal by speaking to us through a mixture of app-translated English and Japanese, telling us stories of where the food was from and how their restaurant came about. Would highly recommend for any travellers seeking a unique cultural experience with friendly and...

Exceptional Kaiseki Lunch in Kyoto

We had the most amazing kaiseki lunch with the most wonderful couple near the Gion district in Kyoto. From start to finish, the service and attention to detail were impeccable. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, showcasing the essence of Kyoto’s traditional cuisine.

What truly elevated the experience was the hospitality of the couple running the restaurant. They went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, assisting with translations and engaging with us to create an interactive and memorable dining experience. Their warmth and genuine passion for their craft shone through every moment.

This was hands down the best meal we’ve had in Japan so far, and one we will treasure for years to come. If you’re in Kyoto and looking for an unforgettable culinary journey, this is the...

What a charming little gem with deliciously cooked food.

The lady who runs the place is so lovely, she made us really welcome - one that just makes you happy. Despite her very little english, the lady prepared a handwritten menu - created by herself (drawings included!)- in English! How good is that!?

Food is absolutely a bargain for what we paid for. That Kyoto wagyu beef was the best we had so far. We got ourselves the Kyoto sake and it did not disappoint - ended up asking for a top up.

The place sits seven on the counter - we had better views elsewhere. But the personality of the staff really made the atmosphere here. We were lucky with our sitting and was able to exchange conversation with four other guest during...