Renkonya

As others have said, this is tricky to find with only a small note on the door to say what it is but, once inside, it is a real treat. It's a small restaurant with, I think, four tables and two seats at the counter. As a vegetarian, I was happy there were so many options for dinner. Very little En...glish is spoken but there are guides in the menu for what to ask for. Small plates of food, which left us the option of trying lots of dishes instead of just one large plate. I had a lovely time here watching the dishes being cooked and eating in a traditional Japanese restaurant.

Visited September 2025

Authentic little Izakaya with good food/sake at a reasonable price. This place is so small and has no vent so the cooking smell and smoke linger. It ruins your clothes. Other than that, it’s ok. Probably won't go back, though.

Visited May 2025

Amazing food and authentic experience. Tiny restaurant with the chef and a server. We sat on the floor and watched her cook! The food came out fresh from her gas stove top. Very dish was wonderful. Don’t miss the renkon, eggplant, and lightly fried tofu.

Visited May 2025

If you’re looking for an authentic and intimate experience in Kyoto, this tiny traditional restaurant is pure magic. With just three tables, you are welcomed into what feels more like a home than a restaurant, and you’re immediately greeted by the smile of the sole chef – a lovely older lady who coo...ks every dish herself. The menu is small but perfectly crafted, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients prepared with meticulous care. Each dish feels personal, a true labor of love, and bursting with flavours that honour Kyoto’s rich culinary tradition. If you’re fortunate enough to find this place and grab one of its three tables, savour every moment. It’s not just a meal – it’s an experience you’ll carry with you long after leaving Kyoto.

Visited December 2024

This 15 seat restaurant in a traditional wooden townhouse in Pontocho has an English menu and vegetarian options are clearly marked. We enjoyed the kinpira, lotus with mustard , boiled tofu and roasted ginkgo nuts. Dinner only. Cash only.

Visited November 2024