Pisola - Uji Ogura — Restaurant in Uji

Restaurant Review: Pisola - Uji Ogura

Pisola - Uji Ogura, located in the serene city of Uji, Kyoto, is a hidden gem that offers a delightful fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and modern culinary techniques. Known for its signature dish, the Ogura Toast, Pisola has carved a niche for itself among locals and tourists alike.

Ambiance and Atmosphere The restaurant exudes a warm and inviting ambiance, with its minimalist yet elegant decor. The use of natural wood and soft lighting creates a cozy environment, perfect for a relaxing meal. The large windows offer a picturesque view of Uji’s lush greenery, enhancing the dining experience.

Menu Highlights Pisola’s menu is a celebration of Uji’s culinary heritage. The Ogura Toast, a must-try, features thick slices of toasted bread generously topped with sweet red bean paste (anko) and a dollop of whipped cream. The balance of flavors is impeccable, with the sweetness of the anko perfectly complementing the creamy texture of the whipped cream.

Another standout dish is the Matcha Parfait, which showcases Uji’s world-renowned matcha. Layers of matcha ice cream, red bean paste, mochi, and whipped cream create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The bitterness of the matcha is expertly balanced with the sweetness of the other ingredients, making it a refreshing dessert.

Service and Hospitality The staff at Pisola are attentive and friendly, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to make recommendations add a personal touch to the dining experience.

Overall Impression Pisola - Uji Ogura is a culinary haven that beautifully captures the essence of Uji’s food culture. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Japanese sweets or looking to explore new flavors, this restaurant is a must-visit. The combination of exquisite food, serene ambiance, and exceptional service makes it a memorable dining destination.

Rating: 4.5/5 Pisola - Uji Ogura is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Uji, offering a unique and unforgettable...

Overpriced comparatively No vegetarian or vegan dishes or options, only a bread, olive oil, and a salad. Mixed French, Italian, etc. menu, but does not have a flavour from either. 4.Baguette was a small bread, overpriced, and did not remotely taste or had the texture. Unnecessarily noisy. Individually named fruit juices, but in reality usually mixed with other juices, or tea,, and why too sweet. Ordering is done online (bring cell phone and qr reader), servers only serve and retrieve dishes. Servers do not know ingredients of the dishes. You are told to like at the online page for ingredient lost. Pasta is only spaghetti or fettuccine. Toilets should be a little fresher. Coffee machine was broken. No dietary restricted options. Still noisy...

Preface: I am 1/4 Italian from New Jersey, where Italian food is everywhere. I went here in September 2024 with a friend and were pleasantly surprised by how good the food was. I initially thought it would be funny to try Italian food in Japan, but I was shocked. The pizza is very good, and so are the pasta dishes and desserts. Atmosphere/interior is very cool. However, please take note the place is primarily hands-off for ordering, meaning you order from your phone while you're sitting down. If you want to place an order with someone working there, you will have to get his/her attention. Foreigners be aware: you will need to know decent Japanese here (and at other places in the area) to communicate efficiently...