Gion Sobar — Restaurant in Kyoto

I was staying at the Good Nature Hotel Kyoto and stumbled upon this hidden gem while my friend and I were exploring the surrounding neighborhood. There’s a doorway across from an omakase restaurant and you walk down a flight of stairs to enter a quaint, intimate restaurant with mainly counter-style seating (though I do think there were some small tables to sit at as well). The chef/owner was cooking up magic in the kitchen and our food did not disappoint! I got the wagyu sirloin steak and my friend got the fried chicken and both were mouthwatering good! It’s always nice supporting small and local business, but they definitely gave us a bang for our buck! We cant wait to come back and visit them next time we’re in Kyoto.

Also they have a pretty descent alcohol selection. I got the plum wine and it was very tasty. Looks like they had some microphones and maybe a karaoke machine? These people know how to have...

My wife and I stumbled upon this great restaurent by accident when we were visiting the Gion area in early December 2024. We were ravished and looking for a ramen shop around this area but discovered it was closed. Then we saw a signboard that said ''Japanese homestyle cooking''. Apart from another small poster, we would not have known it was an eatery. Down some steep steps and when we opened the door we found that there was a long bar counter and two tables joined together and the place was almost full! There were lots of items on the menu and we ordered Karaage and Beef yakiniku and they were both done just right and absolutely delicious! The price was very reasonable and the service was great too. Typical of Japanese family run Japanese restaurants, the owners were also very friendly and polite. Definitely worth a visit if anyone is in the...

I never write reviews but found this place thanks to google and boy what a find! Without a doubt the best meal I’ve had in Kyoto. It’s a small place in the basement, but don’t let that throw you… the locals all come here because the couple running it serve impeccable food. It’s small enough that the chef takes the time to get to know all of this clients. Incredible izakaya atmosphere. Everything coming out of the kitchen looks amazing so you really can’t go wrong. I had the tonkatsu plate which was exceptional. Make sure to get the homemade plum wine! I wish my trip was longer so I could come back - yes...