カルグクス
As a bread lover, I never realized it before, but if you come to Kyoto, why not have a traditional Japanese breakfast with rice and miso soup sometimes? I searched for a restaurant that opens early in the morning, around 7-8 am, to avoid the crowds. It's located about a 10-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station, heading towards Kyoto Station, in the narrow alleys behind the Minami-za theater. I happened to stay at a hotel in Gion, within walking distance to the restaurant, which was convenient. Although it was close by, I got a bit lost due to not being familiar with the area. The cafe, renovated from a traditional townhouse, usually opens at 8 am, but during July and August, it opens at 7 am. I wonder if this is related to the Gion Festival? It's recommended to make a reservation, as mentioned on their Facebook page. However, I found out about it on the day and arrived just after they opened, luckily without any other customers, so I could enter without waiting. Despite being alone, I was given the option to sit at the counter or in a traditional tatami room. I chose the tatami room with a view of the inner garden, pulling out magazines from the bookshelf behind me while waiting. They had curry, sweets, and drink menus, but I didn't inquire if they were available for breakfast. The breakfast set menu, priced at 950 yen, includes rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and two side dishes. It's quite satisfying, typical of Kyoto. You can upgrade the grilled fish from mackerel to salmon for an additional fee, and rice refills are available for an extra 150 yen. The side dishes included napa cabbage and shimeji mushrooms, simmered tofu pouches, and cabbage, bell pepper, and potato stew. The motherly figure in charge handles both cooking and serving by herself, so if you're in a hurry, it may not be suitable. The sounds of chopping on a cutting board, the aroma of miso soup, and the sight of the rolled omelet being prepared, all reminiscent of an old Japanese house, added to the authentic experience. Sitting on the tatami, enjoying the traditional Japanese meal with pickles and freshly cooked rice, it was a refreshing morning.