Sushi Kaneko — Restaurant in Kyoto

After stumbling upon Sushi Kaneko on Google Maps, I was initially met with the challenge of securing a spot, indicative of its popularity and exclusivity. Despite the initial disappointment of being turned away not once, but twice due to no availability, my determination to dine at this esteemed establishment only grew stronger. The anticipation built over two days was not only met but exceeded in every aspect of the dining experience.

Nestled in a cozy, intimate setting that accommodates just eight guests at a time, Sushi Kaneko offers an ambiance of warmth and immaculate cleanliness that sets the stage for an extraordinary culinary adventure. The atmosphere is inviting, creating an immediate sense of belonging and expectation.

Opting for the tasting menu, I indulged in a meticulously crafted selection of 10 pieces of sushi for 5000 Japanese yen plus VAT. This, coupled with a 180ml serving of sake priced at 1200 yen, represented exceptional value for money. Witnessing the chef’s skillful preparation of each piece was a spectacle in itself, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

The sushi journey was nothing short of spectacular. Each piece was a revelation of flavors, freshness, and craftsmanship that I can confidently say was the best sushi I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. The quality and preparation set a benchmark that I fear may spoil me for future sushi endeavors.

The accompanying sake, my first foray into this traditional Japanese beverage, was smooth, flavorful, and a perfect complement to the sushi. The chef’s recommendation of a local sake from Kyoto was a highlight, introducing me to the nuanced world of sake.

Special mention must be made of the Alaskan shrimp and sea urchin sushi - both were absolutely delightful and stood out as highlights of the tasting menu. It was a privilege to experience such high-caliber ingredients and culinary expertise.

Sushi Kaneko is more than just a restaurant; it is a destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the pinnacle of Japanese cuisine. The experience is a testament to the chef’s dedication to excellence and the rich culinary...

A Hidden Gem for Sushi Lovers

Sushi Kaneko is one of those rare places that quietly steals your heart—and your taste buds—from the very first bite. Tucked away in a modest corner, this tiny sushi bar seats just around ten guests along a single counter, creating an intimate and focused dining experience that feels almost like being invited into someone’s home.

The atmosphere is calm and understated, with just the right touch of elegance. Everything here is about the food and the craft behind it. Each piece of sushi is prepared and served individually, right in front of you, with quiet precision and care. This thoughtful pacing gives you the chance to truly appreciate the textures, the freshness of the fish, the balance of flavors. It’s the kind of sushi that makes you pause mid-bite—not out of surprise, but out of quiet admiration.

Chef Kaneko himself is a presence to behold—impeccably composed, charismatic in a reserved and dignified way. He doesn’t talk much, but everything about his movement, his focus, his understated confidence, speaks volumes. Watching him work is part of the experience.

The staff, too, are wonderfully polite and attentive. There’s a graceful rhythm to how everything is handled—water refilled at just the right moment, questions answered with a smile, all without ever feeling intrusive. The whole evening flows smoothly and calmly, like a well-rehearsed performance where you’re both the audience and the guest of honor.

It’s a place that feels authentic not because it tries to be, but because it simply is. No flash, no gimmicks—just excellent sushi, crafted with skill, served in a space where every detail has been considered.

I’ll absolutely be coming back. Sushi Kaneko is the kind of place you quietly recommend to friends—just not too many of them. You want to keep it a little secret for...

Reservations: this is reservation-only. I asked my hotel in Tokyo to call, and I was able to get reservations for a late 9pm dinner ~5 days in advance. 10:30pm+ seems great to call bc they are not too busy. If you don't have a hotel, you can prepare some phrases with Google translate and that should be enough: date, time (and alternatives!), number of people, and name. Make an effort to use some Japanese! While we were there I heard them turn down a reservation where it seems they only spoke English, but accepted one immediately after where they started in Japanese even though it quickly degenerated into English.

This was a fun counter service experience for us, being able to watch the nigiri preparation, which we hadn't seen before. We thought it was worth it!

Other reviews say the chef is rude, but I think he's just very, very shy about not speaking English well. He warmed up to us by the end of the dinner though! We ordered two more a la carte items using (awful) Japanese, but they appreciated it, and were so very happy when we said we liked the choices (through English + miming).

Make a little effort to speak some Japanese! It will be appreciated.

We ordered the Japanese turban shell (saza-e, ¥1000) which was braised in a broth in its own shell on the grill. Chewy yet tender, and the broth was seafood and sea but also umami soy broth. It was very unique and I'm glad I got...