Step into the world of the best izakayas in Kyoto, where tradition meets modern flair. In this listicle, we’ll explore the hidden gems and culinary wonders that await you at these authentic Japanese gastropubs. From mouthwatering yakitori skewers to savory karaage, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a diverse array of dishes and drinks that define the essence of izakaya dining.
Discover the must-try delicacies, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance, and uncover why izakayas are a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. So sit back, relax, and scroll down for reviews of our top picks that will transport you to the heart of Japan’s rich culinary heritage.
Key Takeaways
- Kyoto’s izakayas offer a wide array of Japanese gastropub delights, from yakitori skewers to karaage, showcasing the richness of Japanese cuisine. These establishments provide an authentic Japanese dining experience, blending traditional charm with modern flair.
- Many izakayas in Kyoto, like Sumibi Kazuya and Onikai, pride themselves on using fresh, seasonal, and high-quality ingredients, enhancing the dining experience.
- Establishments such as Onikai cater to vegetarians with a range of vegetable dishes, showcasing Kyoto’s famous Kyo-Yasai (traditional vegetables).
- Dining in an izakaya in Kyoto is not just about food; it’s an immersive experience into Japanese culture, hospitality, and culinary art. Many izakayas, understanding the city’s global appeal, offer English menus to cater to international tourists.
- Some izakayas, like Izakaya Toyo, are hidden gems adored by locals for their authentic experience and budget-friendly prices. Places like Gion Yuki, owned by sake breweries, offer an opportunity to enjoy premium sake at great prices.
- There’s something for every budget, from affordable yakitori spots to more upscale dining options offering multi-course meals.
10 Best Izakayas In Kyoto
1. Sumibi Kazuya
Sumibi Kazuya is a restaurant located at 364 Kamiyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8024, Japan. It is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The restaurant is conveniently situated in the picturesque Pontocho area of Kyoto.
The interior is beautifully furnished with a local vibe, and even the restrooms are worth seeing. The restaurant is quite popular and can get full, but visitors usually don’t have to wait long for a table.
Sumibi Kazuya prides itself on serving quality ingredients, such as fresh seafood and Kyo-Yasai (Kyoto traditional vegetables), procured directly from the market. The ingredients are served in a variety of ways, such as tempura or sashimi, but the sumiyaki (charcoal grill), which inspired the name of the restaurant, is particularly recommended.
The restaurant offers an English menu, but foreign visitors are even encouraged to learn a few bits of Japanese. For vegan and vegetarian customers, there are quite a few vegetable dishes on the menu. The veggies are grilled to the point where nothing is burned, and the tempura is delicious.
Please note that the restaurant can get a bit smoky from the cooking. The prices are reasonable, with 3-course offerings at 3,000 JPY, 4,000 JPY, and 5,000 JPY that all come with limitless drinks.
2. Bajitofu
Bajitofu is a centrally located izakaya[1] in Kyoto, Japan, specializing in yakitori. It is located at 587 Kikusuibokocho, Muromachi-Dori Shijo-Agaru, Nakagyo-Ku, Kyoto, 604-8154.
The restaurant is known for its high-quality yakitori, or grilled chicken on skewers. They use only domestic chicken, cut into larger chunks than usual, and grill each skewer over high-grade binchotan (charcoal).
The restaurant has received excellent reviews, with a rating of 5.0. It is particularly popular among tourists interested in yakitori.
However, due to its small size and popularity, reservations are recommended. The restaurant is open from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. and is closed on Sundays and national holidays.
3. Ichiba Koji Teramachi Branch
Ichiba Koji Teramachi Branch is a well-known restaurant located at 283 Empukujimaecho, Teramachidori Nishikikoji-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, in the B1F With You Building, Kyoto 604-8045, Kyoto Prefecture. It is conveniently situated in the bustling Shinkyogoku Shopping District.
The restaurant offers a diverse menu that includes grill, Japanese, brew pub, international, and pub meals. It operates from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and again from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, the last order is taken at 22:15.
Many customers have praised the quality of the food, particularly the wagyu beef. The restaurant is popular for light lunches and is considered reasonably priced. It’s a great place to experience a variety of cuisines in a comfortable setting.
4. Onikai
Onikai is a popular izakaya located at 388 Komeyacho, Kawaramachi-Dori Shijo-Agaru, Nakagyo-Ku, Kyoto 604-8026, Japan. It is conveniently situated in the Shinkyogoku Shopping District.
The restaurant offers a variety of dishes and is particularly known for its vegetable dishes and Japanese cuisine. It operates from 17:00 to 00:00 (last order at 23:30), and it is open every day.
Onikai has received positive reviews from customers, with a rating of 4.5. Customers have praised the quality of the food and the restaurant’s atmosphere. The restaurant is also known for its friendly and welcoming staff.
5. Izakaya Toyo
Izakaya Toyo is a well-kept secret adored by locals in Kyoto for its authentic izakaya experience. The restaurant stands out for its budget-friendly prices and generous servings, making it a favorite among those looking to enjoy traditional izakaya fare without breaking the bank.
The restaurant is indeed a popular dining spot in Kyoto, located at 35 Umezu Takazecho, Ukyo-Ku, Kyoto 615-0906, Kyoto Prefecture. It has received excellent reviews from customers, with a rating of 5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.
The menu at Izakaya Toyo boasts a wide selection of classic izakaya dishes that cater to various tastes. From savory yakitori skewers to crispy tempura and flavorful sushi rolls, there is something for everyone to savor at this hidden gem. In addition, the menu offers a variety of dishes, including tuna sashimi, uni, unagi, and seared tuna cheeks. Customers have praised the quality of the food, particularly the grilled tuna.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere typical of izakayas while relishing the flavors of Japan’s culinary delights. The restaurant is known for its casual, warm, and hospitable atmosphere. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Izakaya Toyo offers an opportunity to indulge in local cuisine authentically prepared and served with care.
However, it’s worth noting that the restaurant is often full, and there may be a wait for a table. Therefore, it’s recommended to visit early or make a reservation if possible.
For an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Kyoto’s vibrant food scene, make sure to add Izakaya Toyo to your list of must-visit restaurants during your stay in this historic city. Izakaya Toyo is indeed a must-visit restaurant for those looking to experience Kyoto’s vibrant food scene.
6. Akagakiya
Akagakiya is a local izakaya located at 9 Magohashicho, Kawabata Nijo Sagyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-8385, Japan. This restaurant is known for its old-school Kyoto atmosphere and its tasty izakaya classics.
The interior of Akagakiya is reminiscent of a traditional machiya with smoke-stained wooden beams and pillars, cloth-wrapped wires, and tungsten lamps. The restaurant’s offerings cover most izakaya classics, including fried chicken, simmered dishes, cold tofu, edamame beans, and more.
One of the standout dishes at Akagakiya is the shime saba, a vinegared mackerel dish that is gently tart rather than overwhelmingly sour. The mackerel is fresh and not at all fishy, making it a popular choice among diners.
Despite its unassuming exterior, Akagakiya has a surprisingly well-translated English menu. The restaurant has received positive reviews from customers, with a rating of 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.
7. Sumibi Torito
Sumibi Torito is a unique izakaya in Kyoto that stands out for its method of grilling food over charcoal fire pits. This traditional technique infuses the dishes with a distinct smoky flavor, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
The interior of Sumibi Torito is a small, stylish, narrow hallway of a restaurant where the chefs turn out some incredible yakitori and a whole variety of related dishes. The open kitchen concept does allow diners to witness the skilled chefs at work, adding an element of excitement to the meal.
At Sumibi Torito, patrons can indulge in a variety of grilled options. Each dish is carefully prepared to perfection over the charcoal flames, ensuring rich flavors and juicy textures with every bite. This includes meats like succulent pork belly and tender chicken skewers, fresh vegetables, and delectable seafood choices.
Whether you are a local looking for an authentic izakaya experience or a visitor eager to explore Kyoto’s culinary scene, Sumibi Torito promises a delightful journey through Japanese grill cuisine.
From savory meats sizzling on the grill to vibrant vegetables charred to perfection, this establishment offers a gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving more. It is a must-visit restaurant for those looking to experience Kyoto’s vibrant food scene.
8. Kirakutei
Kirakutei is a charming izakaya located at 215 Okuracho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0861, Japan. It is situated in the heart of Kyoto, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The restaurant specializes in seafood and fowl dishes, providing a wide variety of options for patrons. The menu boasts a range of delicacies, all prepared with care and attention to detail. The restaurant is particularly known for its seafood, offering a fresh and flavorful selection.
Kirakutei operates from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and again from 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. It is open every day, making it a convenient choice for both locals and tourists. The restaurant has received positive reviews from customers, with a rating of 3.51. Customers have praised the quality of the food and the restaurant’s atmosphere.
9. Gion Yuki
Gion Yuki, also known as Yuuki, is a well-regarded izakaya located at 111-1 Tominagacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0078, Japan. It is situated in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Gion district.
The restaurant is known for its seafood and izakaya-style dishes. The menu includes a variety of options, with a particular emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. One of the standout dishes at Gion Yuki is the shime saba, a vinegared mackerel dish.
The interior of Gion Yuki is described as a small, stylish, narrow hallway of a restaurant. The open kitchen concept allows diners to witness the skilled chefs at work, adding an element of excitement to the meal.
Gion Yuki operates from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM on weekdays and from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays. The restaurant has received positive reviews from customers, with a rating of 4.01. Customers have praised the quality of the food and the restaurant’s atmosphere.
10. Kushihachi Shijo Karasuma
Kushihachi Shijo Karasuma is a renowned izakaya located at 101 Kankobokocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8009, Japan. It is situated in the heart of Kyoto, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The restaurant specializes in yakitori and kushikatsu, providing a wide variety of options for patrons. The menu boasts a range of delicacies, all prepared with care and attention to detail. The restaurant is particularly known for its grilled skewers, offering a fresh and flavorful selection.
Kushihachi Shijo Karasuma operates from 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. on weekdays. It is open every day, making it a convenient choice for both locals and tourists. The restaurant has received positive reviews from customers, with a rating of 4 out of 5. Customers have praised the quality of the food and the restaurant’s atmosphere.
Summary
You’ve now uncovered a treasure trove of top-notch izakayas in Kyoto that offer a unique experience. Whether you’re craving mouthwatering yakitori or a refreshing highball, these joints have got you covered.
So, next time you’re in Kyoto, ditch the tourist traps and hit up these hidden gems for a true taste of local culture. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an izakaya?
An izakaya is a Japanese gastropub offering a variety of dishes and drinks, serving as a casual place for after-work dining and drinking.
Can vegetarians find suitable options in Kyoto’s izakayas?
Yes, many izakayas in Kyoto, such as Onikai, offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, particularly utilizing local vegetables.
Are reservations required at izakayas in Kyoto?
While not always necessary, making a reservation is recommended for popular spots, especially smaller or highly-rated izakayas like Bajitofu.
Is it common for izakayas in Kyoto to have English menus?
Yes, many izakayas catering to tourists offer English menus to make the dining experience more accessible.
What kind of dishes can I expect at an izakaya?
Izakaya menus typically include a variety of small plates like sashimi, grilled meats (yakitori), fried foods (karaage), and other Japanese favorites.
Are izakayas in Kyoto expensive?
The price range can vary widely, from budget-friendly spots like Izakaya Toyo to more upscale dining experiences, offering something for every budget.
What makes Kyoto’s izakayas unique?
Kyoto’s izakayas often incorporate local ingredients and specialties, such as Kyo-Yasai, and are set in the city’s historic and picturesque settings, providing a unique dining experience.
