Kichi Kichi in Kyoto is famous for its omurice (omelet rice) and the theatrical cooking style of its charismatic chef, Motokichi Yukimura. After eating there myself, I can say the small, cozy restaurant may not win awards for its food, but it has earned its fame for the chef’s entertaining and skillful performance. In recent …
Chao Chao Sanjo Kiyamachi is a small and lively gyoza restaurant near Pontocho and the Kamo River in Kyoto. I have eaten here several times over the years, and it remains one of my favorite casual stops for dumplings, beers, and a fun atmosphere. My most recent meal was in November 2023. I arrived shortly …
Sushi no Musashi is a casual conveyor belt sushi restaurant inside Kyoto Station near the Hachijo Exit. I had previously eaten at its Sanjo location, and during my November 2018 trip, I visited the Kyoto Station branch to see whether it offered the same combination of affordable sushi and the freedom to choose whatever looked …
Katsukura is a Kyoto-born restaurant specializing in tonkatsu, a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet. Since tonkatsu is one of my favorite Japanese dishes, I was curious to see whether Katsukura lived up to its reputation. I originally planned to visit the Sanjo main shop, but after a long day visiting Himeji, I changed plans and …
When you are trying to plan a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, at the top of your list might be Himeji. Himeji is a wonderful town with an amazing castle. However, there is another great city near Kyoto with a small yet equally impressive castle. That city is Hikone. Located about 25 miles northeast …