Germoglio

Kyoto’s Germoglio is a high-end yet cozy Italian restaurant where the classic wooden interiors set the stage for even more remarkable food. Named after the Italian word for “bud,” the restaurant realizes chef Amatani Shogo’s vision to blossom within the rich culinary soil of the city. And with its first Michelin feature in 2024 — six years after Germoglio opened — it’s clear that everything is going exceptionally well. Amatani began his career at Ristorante Canoviano and honed his skills during a transformative trip to Italy in 2012, drawing much of his inspiration from the Piedmont region. As a result, Germoglio’s menu leans heavily on northern Italian techniques, with a focus on rich meats, though southern Italian influences — particularly seafood and pasta— are still present. Fresh fish from the Kyoto Central Wholesale Market and seasonal vegetables from local farms are key components in his dishes. The tasting menu reflects Amatani’s seasonal approach, often starting with light, seafood appetizers like swordfish panzanella and continuing with homemade bread. Next comes the handmade pasta, like pappardelle infused with rosemary to complement the lamb sauce, or ravioli stuffed with guinea fowl. Garlic is used sparingly so it does not dominate the flavor profile of his recipes. Wine is an integral part of Germoglio, with a curated selection of 300 bottles of natural to aged drops. Located along Kyoto’s iconic Shichijo Street, just minutes from the Kyoto Station, Germoglio is the apt place to tell stories, drink wine and breathe it all in. ​ Michelin Guide accolades: 2024 - Michelin Selected