I didn't post a review on April 30, 2023, but I visited a restaurant that I personally highly rate. It is located on a quiet street called Ishibe-koji, which I had never been to even though I have been living in Kyoto for a long time. Last time, I sat at the counter and could see the food being prepared, but this time I reserved a private room on the second floor, which had a mix of a nervous and comforting feeling like visiting a grandma's house. The course menu consisted of light dishes mainly using summer vegetables, and the corn rice included tomatoes and edamame. The colors of the hydrangea jelly were lovely. The restaurant pays attention to detail and is reasonably priced, so I recommend it when you visit Kyoto for sightseeing!

In these times, I visited for the first time in a while since they started serving lunch. However, they now only offer set courses for dinner, which is a bit of a downside for me personally. The taste is generally good, but there are some inconsistencies. It seems like they prioritize catering to the general public. The lunch course on this day included: Appetizer: Yuba and others Main dish: Fluffy egg Sashimi: Bonito with oil Grilled dish: Oysters and lotus root Main course: Daikon and yuzu rice Dessert: Mizuyokan and apple They don't have a specific menu for children, but they are accommodating and can provide plain rice if needed. So, it's a good option for those with small children who want to enjoy a slightly upscale meal.

If you walk along the winding roads of Higashiyama where cars cannot enter, you will come across the quaint stone-paved alley called Ishibe Koji. Since I had some time before catching the Shinkansen, I decided to have a late lunch there. I was led to a private room with a tokonoma alcove, and the room was comfortably air-conditioned, which was a relief from the heat outside. The menu included a fluffy meringue filled with yuba, Kujo green onions, and shrimp, creating a perfect harmony with the dashi broth. Everything was delicious, showcasing the freshness of the ingredients and the excellence of Japanese cuisine. The pumpkin pudding served at the end was unbelievably delicious. I highly recommend stopping by when you visit Higashiyama.

It was a wonderful Japanese restaurant located in a charming back alley. We were seated in a private room on the second floor and enjoyed a course meal. I was there for a business meeting, and the food was served at a decent pace (although a bit faster would have been better). The dishes and conversation were enjoyable. Every dish was delicious. This time, there were a lot of sweet potatoes in the menu... The egg and yuba soup was particularly tasty. By the end of the meal, I was pleasantly full.

Located a little distance from Gion Shijo, it's a nice walk to explore souvenir shops, Tsujiri, and Yasaka Shrine. Although it's a hidden gem, the food and service are excellent. Highly recommended for travelers. I visited for lunch and enjoyed a quiet meal in a private room. Today, I was able to indulge in luxurious yet reasonably priced dishes.

It was a very nice atmosphere in the restaurant, with good value for money and the food was delicious. The service was average, neither good nor bad, and we were able to relax and enjoy our meal. They also adjusted the speed of the course dishes, so we could have a stress-free dining experience. Thank you very much.

I made a reservation for the 8800 yen per person course and visited the restaurant. The night in Gion felt like a different world, with an amazing atmosphere! The dishes were made with seasonal ingredients and were delicious. The fluffy egg dish was a pleasant surprise, and I was able to enjoy seconds as well. I highly recommend this restaurant!

Today I found this place by searching for price, location, and cuisine. I arrived a bit early but they kindly let me in, and I sat at the counter... The small room allowed me to enjoy my meal slowly and feel the essence of Kyoto. The specialty fluffy egg (no photo unfortunately) disappeared in an instant when I put it in my mouth! Everything was delicious!

I visited this quiet restaurant with my mother and friends, a group of four women. We enjoyed the 8000 yen course menu, which included a variety of dishes from appetizers to fish and meat, all showcasing the elegance of Kyoto cuisine. The fluffy egg dish and rice, a specialty of the restaurant, were served in a single pot for the group, and they kindly offered refills, so even men can enjoy a satisfying meal. The attentive service added to the enjoyable experience we had.

Located in a back alley, the atmosphere outside was nice, so I made a reservation and went. They only offer set courses. I tried the 6600 yen course in a tatami room and the fluffy egg dish was amazing! The broth was very flavorful and the fluffy meringue paired perfectly with it. I couldn't stop myself from finishing it all! The Kyoto pork was also delicious with a good balance of fat and flavor. The root vegetable rice served at the end was brought out in a pot and there was plenty to eat, so I left feeling satisfied. The water in the restroom sink comes out with such force when you press the pedal, it was a bit tricky to use haha.

I went to Kyoto to see the autumn leaves. Despite knowing that Kyoto is crowded during this season, the beautiful autumn leaves always make me want to travel there. So, it's a battle to get reservations at delicious restaurants (tears). Amidst this, I managed to win the reservation battle and visited "Ishibe Koji Mamecha" restaurant. It is a hidden gem located near Yasaka Shrine. First, we toasted with a glass of champagne! (cheers) The appetizer "Kohlrabi with Shrimp Sauce" had a gentle flavor that was comforting. Why does warm food make us feel so good when it enters our stomachs, I wonder. A dish that would be irresistible to those who love sauce. The dish "Special Fluffy Egg" was similar to Korean cuisine's Gyeranjjim, with yuba and yuzu adding a delightful fragrance. For the sashimi course, we had a platter of fresh seafood, including yellowtail and longtail tuna. The beauty and deliciousness were immediately apparent. We switched from champagne to sake to pair with the sashimi. Since there was "Koto," a sake from Sasaki Sake Brewery, the family of the actor Kuranosuke Sasaki, we tried that. It had a crisp taste that paired perfectly with the sashimi. The seasonal appetizer course featured fresh ingredients and was beautifully presented, enhancing the travel mood. The autumn leaves on the plate were cute and wonderfully autumn-like. The grilled dish "Kyoto Pork" with oil-blazed vegetables and pork was very delicious. The slightly sweet sauce was a favorite among everyone. The meal was cooked in a feather pot at each table, with seasonal ingredients like mushrooms abundantly included. The miso soup and pickles were also of high quality, as expected from Kyoto. For dessert, we had a "Sweet Potato Parfait," which perfectly captured the autumn season. The crispy texture of the sweet potato contrasted with the smooth soft serve, making it very delicious. The portion size was just right, so we managed to finish it all! It was very delicious, thank you for the meal! Ishibe Koji Mamecha Kyoto 463-16 Shimokawara-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Tel: 075-532-2788

The nearest station is Keihan Gion Shijo Station, but it takes more than 10 minutes to walk. Despite the annoying rain, I walked diligently, crossing Higashioji Street. The restaurant was located on a narrow path, almost like a maze without a map. Just finding it made it feel worthwhile. I was guided to a counter seat after being welcomed at the entrance. There was one other group already there, so it seemed like they only served two groups for lunch that day. The meal began with a dish of taro in a thick sauce, which was unexpectedly flavorful. Next was a fluffy omelette, similar to Korean gyeranjjim. This was followed by sashimi of amberjack and sweet shrimp, and then a main course of grilled pork with bell peppers. Overall, the food was delicious, but surprisingly rich in flavor. The rice cooked in a pot was served until the pot was empty, leaving me satisfied. The price for a lunch of this quality was very reasonable, and the hospitality of the staff was excellent. The atmosphere outside after leaving was also pleasant, with the rain stopping, making it a great weekend lunch experience.

Near Ginkaku-ji Temple, there is a shop tucked away along the Ishibei Koji alley with a nice atmosphere. I visited for dinner on the first day of my trip. The staff led me to a private room with a strong sense of "wabi-sabi". I felt that a little more light would be better, but it might be a matter of personal preference. I forgot to ask what was written on the hanging scroll. Besides the private rooms, there are spacious counter seats surrounding the kitchen, which have a bright and glamorous feel. I started with ordering drinks and then the course began. It was the first day of Golden Week, so the restaurant was busy and the pace of serving the dishes felt slow, but the food was delicious with good ingredients and seasoning.

I visited Washoku Hourai for the first time, where the head chef trained. The atmosphere is high-class, making it a great spot for a date on Ishibe-koji alley. The counter is cozy and perfect for a date. However, I can't give high praise for the food. It didn't leave a strong impression. I would recommend it for young couples.

This is a charming traditional Japanese restaurant located along Ishibe-koji alley in Kyoto, exuding the essence of Kyoto. I visited on the evening of July 21, 2021, and enjoyed an 8,000 yen course. The specialty fluffy egg dish was more like savoring dashi broth than eggs. Be careful, as it's so delicious that you might not want to eat anything else afterwards. Other highlights included seasonal ingredients like conger eel, sashimi with grilled miso, and tempura. The edamame and sea bream rice cooked in a pot with leaves was also delicious. Overall, the dishes were elegant, but the service from the staff was a bit lacking.

Located at the end of a stone wall alley, this shop is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quiet drink away from the hustle and bustle. We ordered the most popular course for 5800 yen. Unfortunately, we didn't get a photo, but the seasonal ingredients were used, and the fluffy egg dish was especially delicious.

Tonight, I visited a quiet street called Ishihori Koji, not far from Yasaka Shrine. The atmosphere in this area is completely different from the bustling city center of Kyoto, with tranquil stone-paved streets and elegant shops. Upon entering the restaurant, I was seated at the counter, as the tables were traditional Japanese style with floor seating. The ambiance was sophisticated, with dim lighting and upscale decor. I ordered: - Fried tofu stuffed with fried tofu skin: The aroma of the fried tofu was delightful, and the crispy texture was irresistible. - Assorted side dishes: The meat and potato stew was flavorful and the beef and bamboo shoot simmered dish was fresh and tasty. However, the portions were small for sharing between two people. - Eggplant and bamboo shoot salad: A delicate and lightly seasoned dish. - Cheese-wrapped fried meat rolls: The combination of meat and cheese was delicious, with a crispy coating. If you want to experience the traditional elegance of Kyoto, I recommend this restaurant. However, the portion sizes are small, so it may not be suitable for a hearty meal. Overall, it is a great choice for couples or stylish women. Thank you for the meal.

I went to a shop on Ishibei Koji Street. It's quite a walk from Gion Shijo Station. I got lost and took a big detour. I recommend using GPS to find your way. When I entered, I was seated at the counter. The counter seats were quite spacious, so I could relax without feeling crowded. First, I toasted with a beer! Cheers! The glass was small, so I finished it quickly. Next, I decided to have hot sake. It was delicious in a 1-go bottle. For the food, I ordered a 5-item appetizer platter. The portions were small, not as big as I expected, so it didn't really look Instagram-worthy. But the taste was quite good. The pickled vegetables platter looked like the photo. It was also on the smaller side. There were several types of sake available. If you're interested, you should check it out. The atmosphere in this area is nice, just walking around was enjoyable. I didn't see many tourists, it was a quiet area. Recently, there were fewer Chinese tourists due to travel restrictions, so there weren't many Asian tourists around. It felt like a peaceful Kyoto. Thank you for the meal.

Located on Ishibori Koji Street between Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes. Instead of our usual course menu, this time I dined with a friend who doesn't drink alcohol, so we ordered a la carte. Here are some of the dishes we enjoyed: - Grilled shrimp and taro in soy sauce: A delicious dish with a unique texture different from regular fried taro. - Fluffy egg: A specialty of the restaurant, this dish features a fluffy egg served with dashi broth. It is recommended to eat it while it's hot. - Assorted sashimi (5 kinds): Although the quality was good, the price felt a bit expensive compared to what we usually have in Iwate. - Fresh yuba and tofu salad with Saikyo miso dressing: My friend said it was the most delicious salad they've ever had. - Assorted obanzai (5 kinds): A great value set that is enough for those who enjoy drinking. The atmosphere of the place and the food truly made us feel like we were in Kyoto. Thank you for the wonderful meal!

The atmosphere is fantastic! A spacious table like a single plank, indirect lighting, a raised sunken kotatsu with floor heating. Lined up obanzai. The seating is limited so it's spacious, with no interference from other customers during meals or conversations. The food is delicious. Great value for money.

Located in a charming stone-paved alley just a short walk down from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, this restaurant exudes the essence of Kyoto. With a sister branch in Tokyo, the focus here is on Kyoto-style obanzai dishes. The atmosphere is quintessentially Kyoto, with the faint sound of a bell ringing in the background adding to the serene ambiance. Housed in a renovated traditional Japanese building, the first floor features a counter made of wood, while the second floor offers a tatami room with a low table for four. We opted for the 6000 yen course menu, which includes all-you-can-drink. Starting with a toast of draft beer, the meal included a variety of obanzai dishes, sashimi (including sea bream, tuna, salmon, and scallop), conger eel tempura, Kyoto-style simmered gluten, grilled pork in miso marinade, and finally, tea soba noodles for a satisfying finish. The dessert consisted of warabi mochi and matcha, a perfect ending to the meal. The drink menu for all-you-can-drink was extensive, and the overall cost performance was excellent, offering a great value for the price. While Kyoto is filled with high-end dining options, this restaurant provides a taste of Kyoto's unique atmosphere that is perfect for visitors and locals alike. Thank you for the wonderful meal.

As the days grow shorter, Kyoto's Ishibei Koji becomes even more charming. Every shop is ready with their sprinkled water, a beautiful tradition. This time, we tried the course menu of Mamecha's Obanzai and Mochi Pork, consisting of 8 dishes (excluding tax) for 4500 yen. It was our first time in a private tatami room, although it was a bit disappointing that it wasn't a sunken kotatsu style. We enjoyed it with draft beer and sake. The meal started with three shared Obanzai dishes: tomato salad, nikujaga (meat and potato stew), and, what was the last one? Oh, a potato salad came a bit later. Despite their homely feel, the nikujaga was exceptionally delicious. The sashimi included baby tuna, salmon, scallops, and amberjack. The scallops were incredibly sweet. For the fried dishes, we had remnants of conger eel and maitake mushrooms, a seasonal treat. I love the nama-fu dengaku, with its chewy texture and sweet miso flavor. The miso-marinated mochi pork was tender and well-flavored with miso. Delicious! The meal ended with freshly harvested rice and either chirimen sansho (dried young sardines with Japanese pepper) or bubuzuke (pickled vegetables). Surprisingly, it was smooth cha-soba noodles. The dessert was a fluffy warabi mochi, and the fragrant matcha was pleasantly mild. We opted out of the all-you-can-drink option, so with some alcohol included, the total bill for four of us was just over 25,000 yen. We enjoyed a reasonably priced meal of Kyoto-style dishes.