Asperge Blanche
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The chef at this Michelin-recognized Kyoto restaurant strips back his approach to French food with an emphasis on basics.
Restaurant Details
White asparagus grows straight up, without deviation. Thus was Asperge Blanche named: following in his father’s culinary footsteps, the owner-chef likewise pursued a career in French cuisine, with particular focus on the basics of French cuisine, and an emphasis on minimizing waste.
Unswayed — like an asparagus shoot — by the latest trends like molecular gastronomy or outlandishly exotic ingredients, the chef prefers to let the quality of ingredients and culinary technique speak for themselves. Produce is primarily sourced from the local Kyoto and Ohara regions; organic as much as possible, and minimal pesticide use otherwise, which the chef claims adds depth of flavor and a natural sweetness.
Perhaps the most striking thing about Asperge Blanche is that its kitchen has no gas or electric stove. Everything is grilled over kishu-binchotan charcoal, renowned for its long burning time and intense heat. And when the restaurant says everything, they mean everything: from the fish, to the vegetables, to even the baguettes served with the meal.
The cooking, which earned itself a Michelin Bib Gourmand award in 2022, is refreshingly simplistic, with a back-to-basics attitude that distinguishes itself. The chef is mathematical in his approach: basics + vegetables + sauce. Nothing more is needed.
Furnished extensively with furniture purchased from a French flea market, Asperge Blanche has a delightfully quaint feel to it. Stepping into the restaurant is like entering a Parisian bistro, only in the middle of Kyoto.
Michelin Guide:
2022 - Bib Gourmand
Asperge Blanche Access Info
Asperge Blanche is accessible via a 1-minute walk from Gojo Station on the Karasuma Line, or a roughly 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station.
Asperge Blanche Phone Number
Asperge Blanche Business Days
Asperge Blanche Address
313-2 Yokosuwancho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8179, Japan
Asperge Blanche Cancellation Policy
Cancel your reservation at least 2 days before the dining start time to receive a full refund minus a 3.2% transaction fee.
Restaurant location
Featuring beautiful landscapes from mountain to sea, Kyoto Prefecture conveys traditional Japanese culture through its architecture and gardens, art and artisanal crafts, and delicious local cuisine made from regional produce.
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10 meals
COURSE MENUROKU KYOTO TENJIN Chef’s Table
This intimate dining experience led by executive chef Akira Taniguchi features 13 counter seats surrounding an open kitchen, which acts as a stage for the chef’s culinary performance. Taste heirloom Kyoto vegetables, prepared with French techniques.
SEAT RESERVATIONYamaji Yosuke
The cosmopolitan spirit of France has been transported to this quiet corner of Gion where a Michelin pedigree proves its worth.
SEAT RESERVATIONMoko
Chef-owner Alexis Moko blends neo-French cuisine with touches of Japanese regional elements in the heart of Kyoto.
SEAT RESERVATIONAnpeiji
Ampeiji Masashi crafts exquisite cuisine with fresh vegetables from his father’s garden.