Food and Dining in Kyoto
Kyoto travel guide
Kyoto is renowned for its fancy fine dining, known in Japanese as kaiseki. You will find a host of quaint restaurants serving dainty dishes and refined and painstakingly executed plates of food that balance taste, texture and presentation. Served by a kimono-clad waitress while sitting on a tatami, a fine dining experience in Kyoto can be a highlight of your trip.
Another specialty of the region is tofu, no doubt influenced by the many priests and Buddhist practitioners in Kyoto. You will find it served in a hot broth, deep fried or even with sushi. Of course, you’ll also find the complete range of Japanese staples – from noodle soup to grilled seafood.
Best food and dining in Kyoto
Featured stories & fun stuff
22 Great Restaurants in Kyoto
Read itKyoto has a reputation for its love of tradition, and it’s fair to say that some of the old restaurants in this ornate city serve up a history lesson along with amazing cuisine. However, these exclusive experiences cost a lot. If you’re on a budget, consider dining in shopping malls or modern franchise restaurants – the food is great value and still prepared with skill and care.
Many Japanese restaurants in Kyoto serve specialty dishes such as tempura, sushi or udon noodles. In case you need a change from local fare, Kyoto is also home to a variety of cuisine, from European to pan-Asian food. One factor that you should note is that many small restaurants still prefer to accept payment only in cash and it can be difficult to locate ATM machines in some areas.
