Taku Sando ! One of the absolute highlights of my trip to Japan, and something I’d recommend without hesitation. If you’re reading this review, do yourself a favor: take a break and visit this little gem. not only incredible sandwiches but also a warm and authentic atmosphere
As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by a cozy, intimate space. There, you’ll meet Kadoi ( i hope i pronounce correctly) whose warm smile and welcoming presence immediately set the tone for the exHis passion and attention to d
The menu is simple but absolutely spot on. The roast chicken sando (or whichever sandwich catches your eye) is truly delicious. The bread is perfectly light and flavorful, the filling generous, and every bite is a burst of satisfying, well-balanced flavor. It’s the kind of sandwich that hits the sweet spot between quality and comfort food. they have vegetarian options as well, my wife tried the potato sandwish and it was really good
What truly sets Taku Sando apart is the heart and soul of the place. During my visit, I had the chance to sit and chat with Kadoi. He shared his favorite spot to eat and we talked about japanese culture. It’s conversations like these that create a real connection, and it’s what makes the experience so special.
I was even more excited to find out that Taku Sando is also based in New York. Now, considering how much I loved the experience, I’m seriously thinking about driving the 8 hours just to try it again. That’s how good it was!
Before leaving Kyoto, I promised myself I’d come back, even if just for one more of those sandwiches. I can see this place becoming a real staple for both locals and visitors. I’m wishing him all them success in the world.
If you’re ever in Kyoto, don’t miss the chance to stop by Taku Sando. It’s a true gem for foodies - You won’t regret...
Read moreI unfortunately had the most horrific, near death salmonella experience here back on the 1st of February 2025. I was travelling with friends, we are all from Australia and have a very high regard for japanese cleanliness but Taku Sando has unfortunately changed my life forever. I had a chicken sando which one cutlet was completely undercooked. 4-5hrs later I was violently sick with vomiting, fever, dizziness, weakness. I was bed bound for the rest of my trip with what what I thought was food poisoning. I called an ambulance last night in Japan. I had salmonella poisoning. When I got home to Australia I went straight to Hospital and was diagnosed with Viral Meningitis from the Chicken Poisoning. I am a healthy 24 year old and not typically at risk of picking up infection. I have lost 70% of my hearing and now wear hearing aids and 5 months later still incredibly unwell. There must be a serious issue with their chicken handling and cooking. As you can see in the image, completely uncooked one cutlet. My life has changed forever and I nearly died from this mishandling of food. I am a food technologist by profession and I have never ever experienced such a horrible risky treatment of chicken. I wish I had paid more attention before I ate the sandwich but this should never have happened in the...
Read moreAll I can comment on is based on the the wagyu sando because I had a to go order. I saw "today's special" sign for wagyu katsu sando and gave into curiosity. Not priced outside like the other sandos but when ordered was 4500 yen (other sando are less than 1500 as comparison). Not unreasonable for wagyu. Owner(?) seems nice and speaks english from the short ordering convo.
However the issue is the bad sando. The meat has connective tissue and couldn't get a clean bite through the meat. The choice of cut in this sando was sub par for katsu and seemed very subpar for wagyu katsu. Also used plain untoasted white bread, not shokupan so the flavor and texture really has to come from the meat. Can't comment on other sandos but the wagyu"special" seems like a tourist trap marketing. Left a poor impression. As comparison (have not tried) I searched for some wagyu sando in Kyoto and the image in comparison for a wagyu sando at a wagyu restaurant on the south side of Kyoto Gyoen and looks like better quality...
Read more