Hint: If you’re wondering about the cred for this place, check out the photos in Maps. They tell the full story. This is a restaurant that knows Italian food, particularly pasta.
Last night, we discovered a true culinary gem just steps from the Four Seasons Kyoto. Trattoria Annamaria (also styled as Anna Maria) is a cozy, warmhearted Italian spot in Higashiyama — and absolutely worth every moment spent there. Known for its handmade pasta rooted in the Emilia‑Romagna tradition, the chef’s training at Ristorante Antica Moka shines through every bite .
The cacio e pepe was masterfully balanced—rich, creamy, yet never heavy—with a perfect blend of sauciness and cheesiness that one so rarely encounters. The tagliatelle with Bolognese was equally outstanding: the homemade pasta had a delightful bite, and the meat sauce had the unmistakable depth and comfort of true Emilia‑Romagna cooking .
Our vegetable antipasti was a refreshing celebration of Kyoto’s local produce—zucchini, eggplant, and other seasonal vegetables prepared simply yet elegantly. The prosciutto was flawlessly aged—tender, nuanced, and utterly satisfying.
On the wine front, the co-owner’s sommelier background meant the list was curated with care—and pleasantly affordable. Each pour complemented the meal beautifully, adding to the feeling that both passion and expertise infuse every part of the Trattoria.
Though I’m by no means a professional critic, I left convinced that this place is something special: heartfelt Italian craftsmanship meets Kyoto’s seasonal sensibility. Whether you’re staying nearby or exploring the city, Trattoria Annamaria is a destination in its own right—one I can’t wait...
Read moreIt was the most surprising yet wonderful experience, me and my friends are Italians and we come from Modena too! So you can imagine or wonder when we saw this tiny restaurant near out guesthouse where we were supposed to find true regional italian food and made by a local. We tried ti have dinner out of curiosity and it was amazing! The chef truly loves italian cousine, the pasta was spot on, well made and cooked to perfection, the gnocco fritto was crispy and light, special mention to the bolognese ragù which to me felt just like the one that my mom makes 🥲💖 If you want to have an authentic taste of Italy visit this place, you won't regret it for sure !
(Sadly I don't have pictures of the food since we pretty much...
Read moreA Hidden Gem for Authentic Italian in Kyoto
During our recent trip to Kyoto, we were craving a familiar flavor and were delighted to discover Trattoria Annamaria. The chef, who trained in Italy, served some of the most delicious and heartwarming pasta we’ve ever had. Our group enjoyed each seasonal dish, and speaking with the chef afterward was an absolute highlight.
The hospitality far exceeded our expectations — warm, genuine, and filled with soul. It’s rare to find a place where you can taste the chef’s passion in every bite. This restaurant has heart, and it deserves to be...
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