Kikunoi

Went to Kikunoi Roan a 2nd time as we had an unforgettable meal the first time in 2015….and it continues to impress! We arrived a bit early as we didn’t want to be late since we were walking but that was no problem with the staff. We were then whisked off to the bar and had a more interactive meal t...alking with the chefs and head chef Yoshiharu Murata. Definitely lunch and a show! And of course the progressive Kaiseki summer menu was so delicate and impeccably done. Definitely the best bang for your buck in central Kyoto too which is a big plus if you’re on limited time. This will always be our special place to eat when in Kyoto.

Visited June 2024

What a great experience! First, the staff was just outstanding. The chefs explained all the dishes, and even showed and explained the preparation process for many of the items. We were at the counter so it made talking to them easy, but I also saw them taking large filets of fish to the tables to... explain the process before going behind the counter to cut and prepare the dish. The food was great….from artistic presentation, depth of flavors, and unique textures. Compared to other 2 star restaurants, the price is about what I would expect. Overall it was a great dining experience that will leaving lasting memories!

Visited May 2024

This restaurant is located in the busiest nightlife district along the Kamogano river. Need to make reservations before hand. Selected the lowest priced menu for early Summer (May) at 19,460¥. The introductory item was sake served in a dish. The best items for me was the grilled Ayu and fried susuk...i(sea bream). The rice with grilled Tai was unique and tasty. Not too sure if there is value in the pricing for a 2 star Michelin restaurant.

Visited May 2024

We’ve eaten a lot of high end food in Japan, from Jiro Sushi in Tokyo (also disappointing) to Zeniya kaiseki in Kanazawa and Kitcho in Kyoto, and this place is average and poor given it’s pricing and reputation. Dishes were mostly average, with one fail on the night we were there and a couple of bet...ter ones. Not what you’d expect from somewhere like this. If you want to see what good Kaiseki is like try Kitcho in Arashiyama.

Visited November 2023

We been to the more established restaurant with the formal dining experience (ryotei - Kaiseki) many years ago. We been to the less formal, more affordable outlet twice for lunch. Like others have mention before, if you have not tried a Kappo cuisine or have not stayed in a onsen accommodation. ...This is a must do if this is your first and only time visiting Japan. It includes hot, cold, simmered, fried and grilled dishes. There are many choices in Kyoto with different price range. Go with a sense of adventure trying something different than the usual soba, ramen, teppanyaki, Yakitori or tempura meal. Overall, I like the food quality and ambience. English course menu is provided with the ingredients explained. The lunch timing experience takes over 1.5hrs and there is 2 seating during lunch (11.30am n 1.30pm). There is a charge for bottled water n tea. You might be better off ordering a beer or sake. The restaurant takes credit card for payment.

Visited November 2023