After leaving the Munich Shijo Kawaramachi store, I found another restaurant that caught my interest, so I crossed the Takase River and headed to Kiyamachi Street. I had been wanting to visit "Kiyamachi Sanboa" for a while. A few years ago, I had a delicious highball at Gion Sanboa, so I was planning to go there, but I found out there was one in Kiyamachi as well, which worked out perfectly. Shall we go there today? Soon enough, I found the restaurant I was looking for, but I was a bit disappointed by its snack bar-like appearance. Oh well. I took a seat at the counter and studied the menu. The shelf at the back of the counter storing various bottles of alcohol had a nostalgic charm that stirred up a sense of excitement as if I were at a bar. I was planning to order a highball, but they didn't have the one I wanted, so I opted for a Nikka (I forgot the brand) highball instead. Apparently, only the Gion store in Kyoto carries the highball I wanted. The appetizer was the same as in Gion, peanuts. I didn't take notes on the Nikka, so I can't remember the details, but it was undeniably delicious. As last call approached, I ordered the bartender's recommended 12-year-old Royal Lochnagar highball. Since I didn't take notes, I can't provide details, but it was delicious without a doubt. As closing time approached, I received a coaster and left the restaurant, but now I want to visit Kyoto Sanboa next time.

This restaurant is located about a 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station. I finished dinner early and visited around 7 p.m. on a weekday. I ordered the Highball Suntory, thinking of highballs when it comes to Suntory. It was served promptly. The highball was very easy to drink. I ended up having several drinks. The bartender's service was good, and it was a fun time. I would like to revisit if I have the chance.

As I was wandering around Pontocho, I came across the name Sambou, which sounded familiar. I remembered it was a famous restaurant, so I decided to go in. Since highballs are their specialty, I ordered one right away. The atmosphere was easy to drink in, and when I saw they had Wild Turkey 13-year, I didn't hesitate to order it with soda. The 8-year was smooth and easy to drink, while the 13-year had a rich, expansive flavor.

Today, I went on a solo trip to a Kyoto izakaya. Before heading back to the hotel, let's stop by one more place. Let's go to the counter seats at "Kiyamachi Sanboa." Starting with a highball, as delicious as ever. I've been to many branches of "Sanboa," but the atmosphere here is exceptional. I was drawn in unintentionally. They made me an original cocktail called Kanpiko. Let's enjoy it while looking at a photo of the previous owner. It brings back old memories. The first "Kiyamachi Sanboa" was in 2008. That's 14 years ago. It was a time when I still had hopes for izakaya trips with friends. Let's end with a strong one. I'll have a mix of Tanqueray and Wild Turkey, half and half, in a neat rocks style. It's a drink to reclaim my recklessness. Now, let's finally head back to the hotel. Thank you for the meal. "Kiyamachi Sanboa" Kyoto, Kyoto City, Nakagyo-ku, Nishi Kiyamachi-dori, Shijo-agaru, Kamiyamachi 367, 17:00-24:00, Closed on Mondays.

It's nighttime in Kiyamachi. The next restaurant is reserved, so I have some time to kill until then. So, I stop by Sambōa. Luckily, there are two seats available, so I take a seat. Of course, I order a highball. Soon, the highball arrives. Oh, I see. If you don't say anything, they put ice in it. Well, it's been a while since I've been to Sambōa. In 15 minutes, I'll be off to the next destination. There are three Sambōa restaurants in Kyoto, and each one has its own unique charm.

Located a 3-5 minute walk from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, BAR Kiyamachi Sanboa is the Kyoto Kiyamachi branch of the famous Sanboa bar chain. It's like a hidden gem in a narrow back alley. The interior has a few counter seats, and it's so tucked away that it's hard to find from the street, which adds to its charm as a back-alley establishment. I ordered the popular Gin Buck cocktail this time. While it wasn't served in a frosty glass or with gin, it had a pleasant sweetness and a stable, enjoyable taste. The atmosphere is welcoming, with regulars frequenting the place and the bartender being friendly and easy to talk to. If you ever feel like having a drink alone in a cozy setting, be sure to visit. Thank you for the meal!

This time, I visited cherry blossom spots in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi, Hofu, Shimonoseki, Kokura, and especially the cherry blossoms along Takase River and Gion Shirakawa were particularly beautiful. The nighttime cherry blossoms were exceptional, with large and glossy petals blooming in full glory. Both of them, reflecting on the water's surface, exuded elegance and transience. From the intersection of Shijo Kawaramachi to the alley of Kiyamachi, there is a SanboA branch that has been in operation for over 100 years. It's a delight that this bar opens at 5 p.m. The friendly son who has taken over now seems a bit reserved, unlike the previous charismatic owner. The turnover remains the same, with seats quickly filling up. The charm of Kiyamachi, SanboA, and the owner's personality continue to captivate. Interestingly, the three SanboA branches in Kyoto are all related, but each has undergone a change in ownership, ushering in a new era. I truly hope they can overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic. Highball with or without ice is priced at 2900 yen.

Today, I went on a solo trip to a Kyoto izakaya. I visited two standing bars during the day, followed by a bar. After a short nap break, I made my way from "Kyoto Sanboa" to "Kiyamachi Sanboa." I started with a highball at the counter. The whisky was Super Nikka, and the highball went down smoothly. The place was bustling with people. The street leading here and the interior were lively as well. I had a brief chat with the new bartender, bringing back memories of the past. Let's order my favorite cocktail. I'll have a Campico, made with Campari and Pico. It's an herbal cocktail that I love. The cozy atmosphere here makes the cocktails even more enjoyable. This is one of my favorite spots at Sanboa. It truly captures the essence of drinking in Kyoto. Lastly, let's have a Martini. A classic cocktail that's deceptively difficult to get right. But this one was perfectly made. It was delicious. Now, it's time to head back to the hotel. Thank you for the wonderful meal! "Kiyamachi Sanboa," Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, 367 Kamiyacho-dori, Shijo-agaru, 17:00-24:00, Closed on Mondays.

After leaving "<Kyoto Star Bar>", I visited here (no special mention about Star Bar, so no review this time). I have visited "<Kyoto Sanbo" and "<Gion Sanbo" before, and this is my first visit to the newest one in Kyoto. Among the three locations, this one has the most casual atmosphere. However, I think the design of the restaurant itself is quite sophisticated. I heard that there is a new young master here. I had a bad experience of being scolded in "<Kyoto"> before, so I asked for permission to take photos. It was okay. When it comes to Sanbo, it's all about highballs. In Kyoto, only "<Gion>" serves Suntory, while "<Kyoto>" and "<Kiyamachi>" serve Nikka. Here, they serve Super Nikka. When I pointed my phone in a certain direction, I was told, "Please stop that." Since there were a few customers gathered around, I thought that might be the reason, so I replied, "I won't take pictures of other customers." The response was somewhat unsatisfactory, "That's not it." In the end, they didn't tell me what was wrong. Perhaps there was something they didn't want to be photographed. As expected, "<Gion>" is by far the most comfortable for me. I don't think I'll be visiting "<Kyoto>" and "<Kiyamachi>" anymore.

Takase River has a somewhat melancholic atmosphere. Cherry blossoms and willow trees line the river, creating a picturesque scene typical of Kyoto. Especially along the Kiyamachi Street, where restaurants and bars come alive at night. The neon lights reflect sadly on the water's surface, enhancing the charm of the Takase River at night. Enjoy a quiet highball by the soothing sound of the stream. The bubbles in the ice-less drink gently rise, as happy couples and sorrowful partings intertwine. The bubbles disappear in an instant, much like the transient nature of life. While areas like Karasuma Oike in Kyoto are lively and fun, the pleasant night breeze is truly felt around here, especially during cherry blossom season when the night sakura along the Shirakawa River and Takase River shine even brighter. However, the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms urges one to hasten through life, driven by such impulses.

【Overall】Located about a 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station in Kyoto. This bar is situated in a corner of the bustling area off Kiyamachi Street, with many touts. Among the various Sanboas, this one stands out for its generational shift. It may have the youngest bartender among Sanboa establishments. The third-generation owner, who took over from the previous one, values the traditional atmosphere while the surroundings may be a bit rough, the interior is cozy (^_^) It's a great place to end your night in Kyoto. -----------------------------------------After finishing work in Kyoto, instead of heading straight home, I decided to have a casual drink (^_^) Kiyamachi Sanboa is located in a somewhat shady corner with many touts, just a short walk from Kiyamachi Street across a small stream. I've been to various Sanboas, but this one has the most lively atmosphere (^_^;) It has a somewhat mismatched but charming Kyoto-like appearance with a large noren curtain and a metal sign. Inside, the familiar Sanboa green lamps and a wooden interior create a cozy ambiance. The counter has handrails as armrests. With a straight counter and tables in the back, it can accommodate about 15 people. It's almost 10 PM, and the place is nearly full. The owner managing the bar is the son of the previous owner, making him the third-generation owner overall. He seems to have studied a lot about alcohol, judging by the various badges on display. The menu offers a variety of drinks, from the signature highball to cocktails. Although not available that day, apparently on Tuesdays, women get half off, and those in kimono always get a discount. The food mainly consists of simple items like canned anchovies, typical of Sanboa. Since I've already eaten, I'll just have a light drink today. Starting with a highball, of course (^_^)・Highball served with square ice cubes and Nikka whiskey. This style of highball is somewhat rare at Sanboa. It has a refreshing taste, as always, and is simply delicious. A consistent flavor (^_^)・Moscow Mule slightly sweet with a strong carbonation. Is this made with Wilkinson? The refreshing sensation as it goes down the throat is invigorating (^_^) It doesn't taste too alcoholic, so you can easily drink it down. It might be a bit dangerous. -----------------------------------------【Final Thoughts】Despite the chaotic surroundings, the interior of the bar has a unique and pleasant atmosphere. This mismatch is quite charming (^_^) Sanboa generally has an aging workforce, so it's nice to see successful generational transitions like this. By the way, it seems like Gion Sanboa also had a generational shift, so I might check that out next time. The bill for today came to 3200 yen. Thank you for the meal.

A long-established bar in Kyoto's Kiyamachi district. When it comes to bars in Kyoto, Sanboah is well-known. Among the several Sanboah locations in Kyoto, I visited this one as it was easily accessible that day. The bartender seemed to have undergone a generational change and appeared younger. I cannot speak to the previous atmosphere, but for better or worse, the place has transitioned to cater more towards a younger crowd. I had Talisker with soda and Ardbeg on the rocks. The bill came to 3,600 yen. I wanted to relax and enjoy my drink slowly, but the vibe wasn't quite like that.

It's reassuring to be able to understand the atmosphere of the restaurant even before entering. Upon arriving after a long time, there was only one other customer. I sat at the counter and ordered a highball. When it comes to Suntory, it's all about the highball. Just like when you go to a beef bowl restaurant, you order a beef bowl. It seems like they use Super Nikka here. There's ice in it. And they serve peanuts with the skin on. It's a perfect combination with nothing lacking or excessive. I had two glasses and left.

A top-notch restaurant✨ The owner was friendly and wonderful. I definitely want to visit again!

Visited on 17th February 2017. Second stop after eating and drinking in Gion. Got a bit tipsy in the authentic atmosphere. Had a lively conversation with the master and his son, enjoyed two highballs and a light snack, then returned to the inn.

A long-standing bar that has been run by generations of the same family for nearly 100 years.