Tempura Matsu — Restaurant in Kyoto

I visited Tempura Matsu on 15 May. I walked in without any reservation at about 5:30pm when they just open. My intention to make a reservation for the next time but of course, secretly I hope they can take me. After checking with the chefs, they put me on a table and I was already jumping with joy. Apparently, all the counter seats were reserved. The tempura chef who is such a lovely elderly man told the staff to check if I mind to seat at the counter near him. And of course, I wouldn’t and so with so much luck, I get to have a meal without any reservation and a counter seat. The same elderly chef never failed to attempt to tell me the name of every dish he served me. If he do not know in English, he will get the younger chef to explain to me. What a service. He is so humble and you see he has great joy in his work. I enjoyed and savored every dish. I chose the menu which cost me 10K Yen. Every dish is full of surprise and the plating is so beautiful. I left the place feeling so grateful...

Definitely a must go. Do not believe all of the reviews related to discriminatory treatment towards foreigners. This does not exist. The place is exceptional to say the least, warm, charming and full of family and staff that has one goal, serve and share their creations. The food is so fresh that the delivery man delivers fish that is alive. We saw that. The plates kept on coming, one good one after the other. Of the many that we have offered, all were good but two left and would leave a long lasting impression, the first was the urchin rice topped with tuna and the other was shrimp soup. You can’t imagine the refined cooking style and attention to details while preparing those in front of you. That evening was just amazing with all of the staff running to provide plates that were cooked to the point and immediately placed on ones table. This was and will remain one of the best meals we had. Thanks tempura Matsu and...

A bit confused reading the mixed reviews here, so I thought I should weigh in.

We went to Tempura Matsu for lunch today, and this was one of the most memorable meals I've had in Japan. (And I've spent about 3 years in the country. Plus countless trips over the years).

We were the only foreigners there. We were treated kindly and fairly. Every course was imaginative, delicious and meticulously presented. It felt authentic, cozy and adventurous all at the same time. Our palate was engaged just as much as our eyes and imagination. Seating at the bar and watching chefs work with so much precision was truly inspiring.

I couldn't fault it if I tried. Hand to heart - wonderful people and an amazing dining experience. Highly...