The Top 10 Must-Try Delicacies in Kyoto

by kyoto unveiled

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is renowned for its historic temples, beautiful gardens, and traditional tea houses. But there’s another aspect of this ancient city that captivates travelers: its culinary delights. From traditional dishes to modern fusions, Kyoto offers a gastronomic journey that tantalizes the taste buds. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 must-try delicacies in Kyoto for every foodie visiting the city.

1.Kaiseki

A traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, Kaiseki is an art form that balances taste, texture, appearance, and colors of food. It’s a culinary experience that mirrors Kyoto’s dedication to tradition and elegance.

A. Kikunoi Honten

B. Ryozanpaku

C. Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama

2.Matcha Sweets

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea). You can find matcha-flavored ice creams, cakes, and even parfaits in the tea houses and cafes scattered across the city.

A. Itohkyuemon Uji Honten

B. Tsujirihei Honten

C. Nakamura Tokichi Honten

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3.Saba-zushi

Unlike the typical sushi we’re familiar with, saba-zushi is a mackerel sushi where the fish is pressed atop the rice and then wrapped in seaweed. A distinct Kyoto delicacy!

A. Izuju Sushi

B. Izuu

4.Yudofu

Tofu in Kyoto is nothing short of exceptional. Yudofu, or tofu hot pot, is a warm and comforting dish made by simmering tofu in a savory broth.

A. Tousuiro Kiyamachi

B. NANZENJI JUNSEI

C. Okutan Kiyomizu

5.Kyoto Vegetables (Kyo-yasai)

Grown in the unique climate and soil of Kyoto, Kyo-yasai are traditional vegetables with distinctive flavors. Dishes made from these are a must-try for vegetarians visiting the city.

A. Sojiki Nakahigashi

B. Shigetsu

6.Warabi Mochi

A jelly-like confection made from bracken starch, warabi mochi is a refreshing treat, often dusted with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and drizzled with kuromitsu (black sugar syrup).

A.Sawawa

7.Tsukemono

These pickled vegetables, known for their vibrant colors and unique taste, accompany many Kyoto meals. They’re not just side dishes but an integral part of Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

A. Kyo-Tsukemono Otokomae

B. Kyo-Tsukemono Daiyasu

8.Obanzai

A traditional home-style cooking of Kyoto, obanzai ryori consists of simple, seasonal dishes that showcase the flavors of each ingredient.

A. Miyakoyasai Kamo Karasuma

  • Restaurant Name: Kyo-Tsukemono Daiyasu
  • Address: Ogisakayacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8095, Japan
  • Estimated Expense: 1,000 – 2,000 JPY per person
  • Operating Hours:
    Breakfast: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (Last orders at 9:15)
    Lunch: 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Last orders at 3:30 p.m.)
    Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Last orders at 9:30 p.m.)
    *Small pot buffet, coffee and beer served until 9:00 p.m.
  • Official Website: https://nasukamo.net/

9.Yatsuhashi

A signature confection of Kyoto, yatsuhashi is a thin, triangle-shaped sweet made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Often filled with sweet red bean paste, they come in both baked and raw varieties. Don’t forget to try both!

A. Honke Nishio Yatsuhashi

B. Shogoin Yatsuhashi Sohonten

10.Soba Noodles

Since ancient times, soba noodles have been a common dish in temples, shrines, and among the royals and high officials in Kyoto. The city’s soft groundwater, slightly lesser in minerals compared to the Kanto region, is ideal for preparing kombu broth, giving Kyoto’s soba noodles a distinct flavor. Don’t miss out on trying Herring Soba, a traditional dish made by simmering dried herring in a rich sauce before adding it to warm soba noodles.

A. Honke Owariya

B. Matsuba

When in Kyoto, ensure you indulge in these ten culinary delights. Each dish tells a story, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Let your taste buds travel through time and savor the essence of Kyoto.

Klook.com





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