Kyoto Kitcho
The pinnacle of Kyoto’s kaiseki dining culture — elegant, historic, and downright delicious.
Restaurant Details
The aesthetics of a restaurant are as important to the overall dining experience as the food itself. As in theatre, every good show needs a convincing set. As you make your way into Kitcho, you’ll be amazed by the care with which they set the tone of the evening using the surroundings: a beautifully kept garden with paper lanterns on the floor, casting gentle light onto the trees leaning over the path, and onto the walls of the traditional old house
Inside, you’ll step through beautifully painted screen doors, and be seated in a spacious, private tatami room which offers a beautiful view of the gardens surrounding the building. This place was once the home of a wealthy antique dealer, but since 1948 it has been home to one of the best restaurants in Kyoto.
The current chef is the grandchild of the original owner. He took over in 1995, modernizing their traditional service style to meet the demands of modern customers. Despite lowering the formality, his restaurant is still one of the best places to immerse yourself in the true culture of Kyoto through their tea-ceremony inspired experience. This family are caretakers of ancient traditions, and they take the role very seriously.
As for the food itself, this is the ultimate kaiseki menu, for those who can afford it. Star dishes include blue crab with vinegar jelly, and barracuda sushi. The absolute centerpiece of the experience, however, must be the “hassun”: a rectangular box of seasonal ingredients which is as much a feast for the eyes as the mouth.
If you only ever try one kaiseki restaurant in your life, make it Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama.
Michelin Guide:
2021 - 3 Michelin Stars
Kyoto Kitcho Phone Number
Kyoto Kitcho Business Days
Kyoto Kitcho Address
58 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8385, Japan
Kyoto Kitcho Cancellation Policy
Cancel your reservation at least 1 week 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 MENUMinokichi Shijo Kawaramachi
Kaiseki in its birthplace, a meal at one of the oldest establishments to serve it — the 300-year-old Minokichi brand returns to Kyoto, now serving ultra-seasonal kaiseki in Kawaramachi to showcase the city's culinary splendor.
SEAT RESERVATIONIharada
This Kyoto restaurant adds a modern twist to traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine, sourcing high-quality ingredients from their own farm and the local seafood market.
SEAT RESERVATIONGion Nanba
Tradition at its finest. Secreted within Kyoto’s traditional district, Gion Nanba offers Michelin-quality kaiseki courses, featuring the best quality produce from all over Japan.
SEAT RESERVATIONNijojo Furuta
You won’t be bored for a single second when you sit at the counter of this creative kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto.