Suginoko — Restaurant in Kyoto

Fantastic little family owned and operated restaurant in Kyoto not far from Keage Station. It's tiny, only 5 or 6 tables, but the chef is very good and the server is very friendly (husband and wife?). We wandered in early on a Wednesday, soon after they opened, but it filled up not too long after that. Katsudon, croquette, and curry were all fantastic! Their curry even had its own flair to it, a bit darker, spicier and tastier than traditional Japanese curry you find everywhere else. Croquette dish actually came with 3 different flavors and some home fries (I took the picture after I attacked it unfortunately). Even their Spaghetti Bolognese dish was great! The prices were very affordable and the hot tea was also free. This was the best value for money meal we had all vacation. Singles, couples, or max 4 people recommended as the place is so small. Don't bring a large group. This is the mom n pop restaurant you want to eat lunch at if...

Stopped by this restaurant at lunch for some comforting food, and they delivered. More homely than fancy, we tried the katusdon which had a balanced savoury flavour, and the katsu retained a light crisp covered in soft cooked egg.

We also tried the Suginoko Bento which consisted of rice, tempura, various sides, a dipping sauce and miso soup. By itself the tempura was not particularly light and crispy, although the prawns were more so better with the lotus root less so. However, combining the light flavoured pouring sauce resulted in a great satisfying meal that had underlying flavour and wasn't greasy.

We sat next to the window when, if the sun is coming through, can get a bit hot but they do provide refills of iced water. Service is very humble. We arrived early for lunch, and there was a small line outside...

Very tasty food made with care. They had a hard time keeping up with clearing out tables while serving other guests, which meant we had to wait much longer than we expected to get a table. We had time and the food was worth the wait, but... be aware: one hour before closing time they told the people in line they were closed, so people who had stood for +30min already behind us had to leave...