Sushi-Kappō Yamabiko — Restaurant in Kyoto

Contemplated hard whether I should share this hidden gem in Kyoto. On one hand, I wanted it to remain a secret amongst the locals so it would never become touristy but on the other hand, I can't help sharing this awesome place.

Chanced upon this small shop near our accoms. Not recommended anywhere online or at our accoms (perhaps cos locals wanted to keep it hidden haha). It caught our eye while strolling along the narrow streets for dinner options. When we popped out head in, it was filled with locals from as early as 5.30pm. There and then, we decided to make a reservation and find out for ourselves.

Long story short, food was great. Ordered a service meal for JPY 3,500. Came with a 2 soups, sashimi and sushi platter, grilled mackeral, tempura, and a miso soup. Every dish was tasty and yums. Traditional preparation with no fanciful details.

It's a cosy place, with 8 counter seats and 3-4 tables. You get all the attention you need from the chef, south chef and 1 staff. Had the privilege to sit beside a regular who shared with me that this place is frequented by locals and v popular in Kyoto. At that point, we knew we had struck gold on the less-trodden Kyoto path.

Couldn't have asked for a better dinner to start off the...

I was not only disappointed by the food but also by the discriminatory atmosphere and service at the restaurant. As an international guest, I felt a sense of discrimination during my visit. While the staff provided friendly and prompt service to other customers, they displayed an indifferent attitude towards me as a foreigner. This made me feel upset and let down.

Even when I asked questions in English, the staff members responded with impoliteness, pretended not to understand, or displayed uncomfortable expressions. It was evident that I was being treated differently solely based on my foreign background, and this was extremely disheartening.

As a customer visiting a restaurant, the quality of service is of utmost importance. Every guest, regardless of their nationality, should be treated with respect and courtesy. Unfortunately, that was not the case during my visit.

I hope my review serves as constructive feedback based on my personal experience. It is essential for the restaurant to address and rectify such discriminatory practices to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment for all customers, regardless of...

We were visiting the Eibisu Shrine in Higashiyama, Kyoto and across the road was Yamabiko sushi house. We entered and were greeted then ushered to our table. To get to our seats there was a wooden plank you had to climb over to sit down at the sunken table.

Once seated we were given menus and one thing caught my eye - Meat Tendon Stew. I pointed it out to my husband and he ordered it. I chose a piece of fish with miso glaze. We ordered 'Nama biru' aka draft beer. We both enjoyed our meals very much and left very happy.

My husband has raved about the meal ever since. A must-see for traditional sushi house with authentic ambience and wonderful quality food made with fresh...