MUSIC BAR universe -GION- — Restaurant in Kyoto

Takashi-san,

Thank you so much for the greatest night in Kyoto. You gifted us with such deep memories of Kyoto. I believe that Japan is not about things or scenery, but about people. Your hospitality and the way you enjoy your work were amazing, and the playlist you had that night was a dream. It's a great memory that we will cherish, and we will definitely come back. I got very sentimental that evening, as everything fit together like a puzzle: great music, a kind owner, Nintendo with childhood games, and delicious drinks, all making us wonder how we could ever leave this amazing country (sorry for my tears!). Thank you so much for being you and for the way you treat people. You deserve a 10 out of 10! and this will be the first place for drinks when we come back (get a lot of umeshu, please!)

Keep doing your great...

Cozy bar with a great bartender

Entering the MUSIC BAR universe, one immediately realizes its owner is passionate about music, games, Nintendo, and drinks. This combination makes the bar a unique place to try local beers, sake, exotic cocktails, and more. However, what made the universe one of Kyoto's highlights to us is its overwhelmingly welcoming and amiable (even beyond the high Japanese level) owner, Takashi. He does not only do a great job behind the counter but is also an exciting company, attentive host, and a strong opponent when playing one of his games.

Needless to say, I strongly recommend everybody to go there, and I wish Takashi and his bar the...

What a gem! My husband & I were interested in visiting a few record bars on our vacation and this place was such a great find. The owner, Takashi, was incredibly friendly and spoke perfect English to us. The venue is small and intimate with fantastic music played throughout the night (we learned about several Japanese artists that we ended up really liking). The highlight though was playing some old school video games with Takashi, my husband was so happy. We planned to go back on our second day in Kyoto but were sad that our plans changed and couldn't go :( This place is very special and getting to connect with a great owner was even better....