Yuzugen Pontocho — Restaurant in Kyoto

Absolutely horrible experience, the store stuff and manager have showed attitude towards customer, and treat non-Japanese customers extremely differently. Think twice before you come in.

Background: I’m a Chinese Canadian but currently studying at Kyoto University. Today my 2 friends (all Asian Canadian) are visiting me and I’ve brought them to this restaurant. BAD DECISION.

1, the store manager had sent a Chinese waitress to serve us, this is ok. But when we ask her what a drink on the menu taste like, she answered: “I don’t know, I never drank that before.” Without giving further comment nor ask her manager or senior waitress.

2, the chief forgot to cook us the 3 side dish and rice, then we reminded him and he finally brought it to us. But this is ok.

3, after we paid (around 4000 yen per person), and we left the store, all my friends have said “ありがとうございます” and we were very polite. The chief and waitress didn’t respond at all, they didn’t even bother to look at us. (When another Japanese couple left earlier everybody in the store stood out and greet/walk them out)

I’ve understand now how much this store looks down on foreign customer and treat us differently. I strongly encourage people not to come here if you would like a local/Kyoto dining experience. Food is not bad, but not worth the price.

if you are Japanese please ignore what I said above, the store owner will treat you like a regular...

🍋🌸 A Yuzu Lover's Dream at Yuzugen, Kyoto 🍋🌸

As a self-proclaimed yuzu aficionado, my experience at Yuzugen in Kyoto's historic Pontocho was absolutely enchanting! 🌟 Tucked away in a traditional Kyoto townhouse, this restaurant is a sanctuary for yuzu enthusiasts. 🏠🍊

The menu offers a delightful exploration of yuzu-infused delights. The yuzu dumplings 🥟, available in various flavors, were a harmonious blend of tangy zest and delicate texture. However, the yuzu hot pot 🍲 truly stole the show. Overflowing with the citrusy aroma and flavor of yuzu, it comes in delicious variations like chicken, shrimp, and sea bream, each presenting a unique spin on this zesty theme.

The yuzu-themed beverages 🍹 provided a refreshing end to the meal, perfectly complementing the dishes. While the cozy ambiance and the innovative yuzu-centric menu made for an unforgettable dining experience, 🌟 it's worth noting that the service was average, not quite matching the high standard set by the cuisine.

For those who cherish yuzu or are intrigued by unique Japanese flavors, Yuzugen is a must-visit. It's more than just a meal; it's a celebration of yuzu in all its citrus...

Never ever go there! Rarely write review but thought I would share our experience & hopefully help other to avoid unpleasant experience. We were husband & wife from England & it was our first night in Kyoto. Once we enter the restaurant & get seated the staff immediately said to us only chinese hot pot is available, the menu outside restaurant suggested otherwise. You have to order 2 sets of hot pot(there were 2 of us) & has to choose the same soup based. Basically, you are paying for 2 but sharing a pot. However, there were a Japanese guy visit after us but allowed to order only 1 pot. Once we have order after asking a few questions, we can see the boss & the staff was having some discussion, giggles & staring at us. The restaurant kitchen is dirty, the stove in front of us( for our hot pot) is dirty & oily. Food portions were tiny( it was a big amount of lettuce on the bottom of the food to make it look big), really expensive based on what you have to pay. Definitely not...