L'Escamoteur — Restaurant in Kyoto

A mesmerizing and enchanting place! Stepping into this cocktail bar does indeed feel like entering a realm of magic and alchemy, where every sip is a spellbinding experience.

You’ll find your eyes exploring the dimly lit and snug space. The corners fiiled filled with a treasure trove of curiosities, from scattered books to vintage decanters, creating an atmosphere that ignites the imagination.

The cocktails are true works of art, a fusion of mystery and magic in liquid form. Local ingredients like yuzu and matcha, as well as regional spirits, seamlessly weaved into traditional, classic recipes to create a tapestry of flavors that celebrate the essence of the locale. The bar staff, like flamboyant wizards, bring forth concoctions that captivate the eyes and tease the senses.

As a connoisseur of finely crafted cocktails, I was excited yet cautious, having been disappointed in the past. While my preference leans toward tiki cocktails, this place took me on a journey beyond expectations. It’s evident that the staff possess a profound understanding of cocktail history, particularly the intricate world of tiki. Each drink is a masterful symphony of balance and creativity, a harmonious blend of the familiar and the innovative.

In a city filled with culinary delights, this cocktail bar stands out as a sanctuary for those seeking liquid artistry. It’s not just a place to enjoy drinks; it’s an experience that transports you into a realm where magic and mixology intertwine. If you’re a seeker of extraordinary libations that ignite the senses, this bar is your portal to a realm of flavor and fantasy. À...

L'Escamoteur, situated in the heart of Kyoto, stands as a beacon of unparalleled craftsmanship and showmanship. The moment you step through the door, you are transported into a world where magic isn't just an act but an integral part of the experience. The bartenders, adorned in 1920s garb, weave enchantment into every cocktail they prepare. The owner was a professional magician for over a decade.

The mastery with which they combine mixology and sleight-of-hand is awe-inspiring. Ingredients seem to appear out of thin air, and the clinking of the ice is accompanied by the graceful twirl of a magician's wand. Every cocktail is not merely a beverage but a performance art, captivating the senses.

The service at L'Escamoteur is impeccable. From the warm greeting upon arrival to the attentive care throughout your stay, the staff makes sure that your every need is catered to with precision and elegance. They possess an in-depth knowledge of their craft and are happy to tailor the cocktails to your specific taste.

If you're seeking more than just a drink, L'Escamoteur offers a complete experience that transcends the ordinary. With an ambiance that echoes a magical past and the deft touch of modern mixology, this place is more than a bar – it's a theater where the magic is real.

Every detail is meticulously crafted, and every sip is a masterpiece. A visit to L'Escamoteur is not just recommended; it's a must for those who appreciate the artistry behind a truly remarkable cocktail experience. It's a place where creativity, skill, and magic blend seamlessly, offering a night you won't...

The drinks menu has a good selection of the classics I would expect in any other bar and the bars own creative drinks.

The bar looks great, someone has clearly put lots of effort into its interior decoration. There’s only two choices of placing: Sitting at the counter or standing. There’s not too many seats at the counter and I’m not a fan of standing in a bar. L’Escamoteur seems to be more of a bar to sit down, so there’s that. It’s a smoking bar, but I found the smoke to be rather unpleasant, perhaps even irritating. I can’t tell if it was of because of tobacco smoked by guests that evening or air conditioning/ ventilation not being in operation or poorly thought out.

Service was swift, attentive and very polite. The barkeepers clearly know their craft and like to perform their “fire trick”.

However, one interaction stood out: I asked one barkeeper where he was from because he had an interesting accent not often heard in Japan and he told me to guess. I answered wrongly, told me the correct answer and asked where I myself am from. I too answered that he should guess and he answered in a very dry manner: “Yeah I’m not doing that.” Sensing he let his facade drop I answered half-heartedly and turned away. Was he in a rush mixing drinks? Certainly. Perhaps tired because of the long hours? Very likely. The fiftieth time he’s had this exact conversation? Who knows. Not the attitude I expect anywhere in a bar After this interaction, we finished up the round,...