Shalara Craft Beer — Restaurant in Kyoto

A Western-style taproom featuring light, fruity takes on popular, high ABV craft beer styles, e.g. IPA, saison, etc.

(Which is to say that the beers will look pricey, but a few of them are seven or eight ABV and the idea here is definitely not to sit and make a session out of it.)

In classic taproom style, the beers available are limited to the craft brews on tap, and the beers on tap are going to be a couple/few dollars more than your standard Asahi or what have you.

Shalara was brand new when I visited (they still had their new store opening bouquets on display) and the staff was extremely enthusiastic and friendly.

I would not say that this place is a destination or a must-see, but if you are passing by, it is absolutely worth stopping...

My wife and I were walking to dinner looking for a place to step in and have a quick drink and the universe presented Cafe Shalara!

Inside, we were quickly welcomed by a band of local patrons and bar attendants. They gave us an English menu, and the owner had his google translate out to help fill in the gaps in my Japanese. We enjoyed Beer, Cider, and some of the best Whiskey we've had in a long time, bonded over our love for Japanese anime, and just had a wonderful little time here.

We'll definitely be coming back when we visit Japan again, and we can't wait to bring our friends along for the experience next time!!

Until...

I really enjoyed an incredible micro brewery in Kyoto. This little spot has incredible beer and very very well balanced flavours. We had the Scotch Ale and Tomato beer and were blown away. Definitely recommend the tomato beer. I was unsure of the tomato beer at first but was totally in love with it after the first sip.

As a Coloradan who loves his beer, this brewery rivals and bests many of the craft beers back home.

Take some time out of your visit in Kyoto and stop by Shalara and have some incredible craft beer.

The staff was incredibly nice and very helpful. Would recommend this...