Mankichi — Restaurant in Kyoto

Great value- I came here tor lunch and liked the 1900 yen option. ( Half portion) I loved that they gave extra sauce and a yuzu spice powder that you can choose to add if you wanted. The sauce itself was flavourful and addictive, and not too salty. Fish was lightly crisped, adding to the aroma, but because of that, it is not fat and juicy ( if that’s what you look for in eel). My biggest ick with Unagi is when the little bones still prick you- no problem with that here. I see some tiny bones but they are soft do not prick at all. I want to eat again sometime!

Also adding; it’s very clean and they try to give everyone as much space as possible. I was a solo traveller and I was given a table for four instead of squeezed into a single table. I appreciated that they cared about the diner’s comfort more than just fitting more customers into the restaurant like Tetris. 🤣 photo of my finished lunch ahha

Atmosphere : good but there’s construction and sawing in the distance and it is a bit uncomfortable to listen to. Not the restaurant’s...

★★★★★ An Unforgettable Eel Experience in Kyoto!

Mankichi is a hidden gem in Kyoto, offering some of the finest unagi (eel) I’ve ever tasted. From the moment I stepped inside, the cozy, traditional atmosphere made me feel welcome. The staff were attentive and gracious, even with limited English—proof that great food needs no translation.

I ordered the unaju (grilled eel over rice), and it was perfection. The eel was tender, smoky, and richly glazed with a sweet-savory sauce that complemented the delicate flavor without overpowering it. The texture was flawless—crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth inside. Paired with a light miso soup and pickles, it was a beautifully balanced meal.

Though slightly pricey, the quality justifies the cost. If you love eel or want an authentic Kyoto dining experience, Mankichi is a must-visit. Be sure to arrive early—this place is popular for...

An Exquisite Culinary Experience – Unagi Don at Its Finest! This Unagi Don (Grilled Eel Rice Bowl) is an absolute masterpiece! The eel is flawlessly grilled to achieve a caramelized glaze on the outside while retaining its tender, buttery texture within. The sweet-savory tare sauce strikes a perfect balance, complementing the rich umami of the freshwater eel without overpowering it. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the fluffy, slightly sticky Japanese rice serves as the ideal canvas for this delicacy. The portion is generous, and the attention to detail—from the charred edges of the eel to the sprinkle of sansho pepper—elevates the dish to gourmet status. Whether you're a longtime unagi lover or trying it for the first time, this meal is worth every penny. A true celebration of traditional Japanese flavors – I’ll definitely be...