Otowa Saryo — Restaurant in Kyoto

Otowa Saryo - A Journey into Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Nestled in a serene corner, Otowa Saryo exudes a charm that captivates even before you step inside. This traditional Japanese restaurant is renowned for its exceptional food and authentic atmosphere, and it's easy to see why there’s always a long queue outside. After a 75-minute wait, facilitated by a convenient ticket machine and an online queue tracking system, our anticipation was well rewarded.

Upon entering, we were seated by a window, offering a picturesque view that perfectly complemented the dining experience. The ambiance was calm and inviting, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable meal.

The food at Otowa Saryo is nothing short of exceptional. Each dish is a testament to authentic Japanese culinary artistry. The flavors were rich and balanced, showcasing the freshness and quality of the ingredients. A special mention must go to the tea, which was a delightful accompaniment to the meal, enhancing the overall experience.

One of the highlights of our visit was the shaved ice cream. It was a revelation – light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. It’s an absolute must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant.

It’s important to note that Otowa Saryo’s lunch service ends at 3:30 PM, and after that time, only desserts are available. To fully enjoy the dining experience, I highly recommend arriving early. The restaurant closes around 4:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid any disappointment.

In summary, Otowa Saryo is a gem of a restaurant that delivers on every front. From the exceptional food and tea to the serene ambiance and efficient queue system, every detail is thoughtfully curated to provide a perfect dining experience. If you appreciate authentic Japanese cuisine, this is a must-visit...

I stumbled upon Otowa Saryo while searching for lunch near Kiyomizu-dera, and it turned out to be an amazing find! I ordered the Soba Set and Udon Set, both served cold with a refreshing soy sauce-based dipping broth. The flavors were simple, authentic, and quintessentially Japanese—a perfect treat, especially in warm weather.

The ambiance was incredibly Zen, with stunning views that enhanced the dining experience. It’s a peaceful spot that feels like a hidden gem. Finding the place was a bit tricky, as it’s tucked away down a small alley near Kiyomizu-dera, but it’s absolutely worth the effort.

I highly recommend Otowa Saryo for its serene atmosphere, beautiful views, and delicious food. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind and enjoy authentic...

Came here after visiting the Kiyomizu Temple. It is a bit hidden from the road but following the path to this restaurant is absolutely beautiful. There was quite a line to get in but with the queue screen it was a lot easier. The line also moved pretty fast. We were seated next to the window and had a spectacular view of the area.

We had the soba tempura set, the soba was nice and refreshing on a hot day and the tempura was nice and crispy. It also included a sesame tofu on the side which was light and smooth. We also had the udon tempura set and the fresh yuba rice bowl set.

Finally we had the matcha dessert set 🍵, which was absolutely phenomenal. My personal favourites included the matcha mille cake and the matcha...