One of the most famous is kaiseki—a multi-course gastronomic experience that showcases seasonal ingredients with meticulous presentation. Another Kyoto staple is obanzai ryori, a home-style cuisine that emphasises simplicity and sustainability by using locally sourced ingredients. 

A must-try specialty here is yuba, or tofu skin—a delicacy born from Kyoto’s long-standing association with tofu. Celebrated for its delicate texture and subtle flavour, it is often featured in vegetarian Buddhist meals (shojin ryori), and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads. 

Kyoto is also known for its sweet treats. They include yatsuhashi, a cinnamon-flavoured rice flour confection which has become a popular souvenir for visitors, and the ubiquitous matcha (green tea) desserts such as matcha ice cream, parfaits, and cookies.

Let us now look at some of the most popular places to dine in Kyoto. 

Start tour day with a leisurely morning at  Takagiya Coffee Club—a cosy café that offers delicious coffee and light snacks in a relaxed setting. Best of all, the cafe plays soothing jazz while you sip your coffee, evoking the quiet, introspective mood of a Haruki Murakami novel. 

If you love blending books and coffee, be sure to visit Cafe Bibliotic Hello! This charming café blends a bookstore with a bakery. Lose yourself among shelves of books while enjoying a freshly baked pastry and a cup of coffee—perfect for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Get directions to the Takagiya Coffee Club
Get directions to the Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of Kyoto at the bustling Nishiki Market, a food lover's paradise renowned for its diverse local delicacies. Wander through the narrow alleyways and sample everything from fresh seafood to Kyoto-style pickles. 

For a hearty and satisfying meal, Omen is a must-visit. This popular restaurant specialises in handmade udon noodles, a staple of Kyoto cuisine. Enjoy a bowl of steaming hot noodles served with various seasonal vegetables and tempura. The simplicity and freshness of the ingredients highlight the authentic taste of Kyoto's culinary heritage.

Craving for something different? Don’t leave Kyoto without trying yuba at Higashiyama Yuuzu. This silky tofu delicacy, made from locally sourced white and black soybeans, is a must-try for any food enthusiast. The restaurant specialises in its beautifully crafted yuba meals, such as its signature yubameshi (yuba rice) set.

For a more refined experience, consider Minokichi Shijo, a historic restaurant serving traditional Kyoto-style Kaiseki cuisine. Their Kaiseki Bento, a beautifully presented boxed lunch, offers a glimpse into the seasonal flavours of Kyoto. Enjoy the stunning views of the Kamo River and Higashiyama from the restaurant's 8th-floor location as you savour your meal.

Get directions to the Nishiki Market

Get directions to Omen

Get directions to Yuba Higashiyama Yuuzu

Get directions to Minokichi Shijo

To enjoy a memorable dining experience, treat yourself to a Michelin-starred kaiseki meal at Kikunoi. This renowned restaurant showcases the artistry of Japanese cuisine—each dish is meticulously crafted to highlight the seasonal flavours and textures of the freshest ingredients.

For a quintessential Kyoto dining experience, look no further than Pontocho Alley. This historic, lantern-lit passage is lined with intimate restaurants, from casual yakitori joints to Michelin-starred kaiseki establishments. Each venue showcases artistry in both cuisine and ambience, with many offering panoramic views of the Kamogawa River. 

Get directions to Kikunoi

Get directions to Pontocho Alley

After a satisfying meal, indulge in a delightful dessert and a cup of tea at one of Kyoto's many renowned tea houses. Tsujiri Tea House is famous for its exquisite matcha desserts and green tea. Savour traditional Japanese sweets' delicate flavours and rich aromas, such as matcha ice cream, matcha parfaits, and anko (sweet red bean paste) cakes.

For a unique twist on French pastries, visit Salon de the FRANÇOIS. This charming café offers a delightful selection of cakes, tarts, and other treats that combine classic French flavours with Japanese influences. Enjoy your dessert with a cup of aromatic coffee or tea in a cosy and elegant atmosphere.

Get directions to the Tsujiri Tea House

Get directions to the Salon de the FRANÇOIS

Travellers seeking a relaxed evening with a drink and some light bites will find a handful of places to visit. 

Consider exploring one of Kyoto's rooftop bars or venturing into the hip bars in Nishiki Market. In the Moon, located in the Nakanocho district, offers a cosy vibe and breathtaking city views. Guests can soak in the city's night energy while enjoying a drink or two and light snacks, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

For a refreshing pint of craft beer, head to BEER PUB ICHI-YA. A creation of Kyoto's Ichijo-ji Brewery, Ichi-ya serves directly from the source, offering a variety of barrel-aged craft beers brewed both locally and throughout Japan. From sweet, black tea-like flavours to those with a spicy kick, there's something to tantalise every palate.

For sake enthusiasts, Izakaya Kyoto-Gatten offers a satisfying experience. On top of Japanese sake and Gatten’s own original matcha beer with a unique Kyoto twist, you can also nibble on a delectable array of meat, seafood, and vegetable tempura, sashimi, and grilled dishes, all prepared in small portions.

Get directions to In the Moon
Get directions to BEER PUB ICHI-YA
Get directions to Izakaya Kyoto-Gatten

If you’re craving something after an evening of drinks or exploring Kyoto’s nightlife, there are plenty of late-night options to satisfy your hunger. Tucked away in Kyoto's historic Ninenzaka area, Okaru is a prime late-night destination famed for its comforting bowls of udon. This cosy, family-run eatery offers a taste of traditional Kyoto cuisine with a menu featuring delicious udon and donburi, all crafted from fresh, quality ingredients. Ideal for a hearty meal after visiting nearby Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Okaru is an authentic Japanese dining experience rich in tradition and hospitality.

Night owls exploring Kyoto can also visit Kyo Ramen Sadakazu Gion Honten, a popular must-visit supper spot. Tucked away in the vibrant Gion district, this intimate eatery exudes nostalgic charm with only four seats and a late-night opening from 10pm to 1am. Its signature soy sauce ramen boasts velvety broth, handmade noodles, and tender Kyoto pork. The lively ambience, fueled by friendly chats with the owner, makes it more than just a meal but a cherished Kyoto experience.

Get directions to Okaru

Get directions to Kyo Ramen Sadakazu Gion Honten

Kyoto offers a feast for the senses. After indulging in its culinary delights, retreat to THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO TOKYU, A Pan Pacific Hotel, where luxury and tradition blend, providing a tranquil sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hotel’s design harmonises with the serene beauty of the surrounding temples and gardens, offering rooms that echo Kyoto's minimalistic aesthetic—tatami-inspired textures paired with sleek modern comforts.