Salon de Muge — Restaurant in Kyoto

Salon de Muge absolutely blew me away with its stunning keiseki "bento" lunch experience. This Michelin Bib Gourmand spot specializes in elegantly composed boxed courses that are an artistic triumph.

Upon being seated in the serene dining room overlooking an exquisitely manicured zen garden, I instantly felt transported to a state of tranquil relaxation. The manicured mossy green garden, carefully pruned trees and stone lanterns created a visually calming panorama that complemented the food journey ahead.

The beautifully arranged bento box arrived like a precious jewel box, with each compartment meticulously prepared. Each bite awed with its understated yet powerful flavors derived from premium seasonal ingredients and herbs. From delicate sashimi to robust meat and vegetable dishes, every component sang with a subtle floral or vegetal essence. The textures and plating were simply exquisite.

As I slowly savored each course, I felt like I was participating in a ceremonious dance honoring the present moment. Salon de Muge elevated the simple bento format into a breathtaking immersion in Japanese aesthetics and cuisine.

The cafe also offers divine desserts and coffee service during the day. While I didn't have a chance to experience the 3-star main restaurant next door this time, I have no doubt it's equally transcendent.

Salon de Muge was the undisputed highlight of my recent Japan travels. I felt so privileged to bask in the elegant atmosphere while treasuring their edible art. This is bucket-list dining at its finest that forever memories...

We visited for the shigure lunch bento boxes and had dessert afterwards. FYI for anyone who’s unsure about reserving through My Concierge Japan - it does work and we didn’t have any issues. We booked for 12 pm, and the latest that we saw people arrive was just before 1 pm as they open for dessert-only visits starting at 1.

Bento: in general, everything in the box was good. The menu changes regularly and there are too many items to discuss. I will say that overall, the taste profile leans towards milder flavours, though everything is still appropriately seasoned. Mix of temperatures with the room temperature items in the box, hot soup and the famous warm tai sashimi on rice.

Dessert: the desserts are what this restaurant is known for and it shows. We got the shine muscat grape parfait, matcha parfait and pudding. The grape parfait was probably the best one with the widest range of flavours and textures. The matcha one was good with the richest matcha taste I’ve ever experienced, though it can be a bit too intense after a while. The pudding was simple yet had great flavours; not too sweet with caramel notes.

Staff were accommodating and the meal was well-paced. The restaurant is situated in a very quiet and tranquil area near Kodaiji away from the hustle and bustle of the...

Nestled in the Gion District area, we didn't have an easy time locating it. The sun setting earlier than usual didn't help the situation either.

But, the surroundings and environment was great. Quiet, peaceful and therapeutic.

The cold darkening skies outside gave it a wonderful feel to the entire ambience.

We had the signature grape ice cream with tea n coffee to go with. Wanted the strawberry one but was told it will only be available during spring.

Food wise, frankly, it's nice but not a marvel. The presentation was good but taste, nothing really outstanding. (Probably also had to depend on the quality of the grapes or strawberry at that time...)

Service was fine. Nice tidy place with perfect lighting for a cosy cafe type setting.

Price wise, I think it's over the top. It's a nice dessert to have but need not cost so much.

Overall, it's a good experience. If u haven't try it, do it...