Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Kyoto

Asia

Japan

# 克 – Okonomiyaki Restaurant in Kyoto, Japan

克 is a charming okonomiyaki restaurant located in Kyoto, Japan, known for its warm hospitality and authentic dining experience. This small eatery, run by a friendly married couple, offers a unique opportunity to enjoy freshly made okonomiyaki right off the grill. With a cozy atmosphere and a focus on quality ingredients, 克 has garnered rave reviews from visitors, making it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is conveniently situated near popular attractions like Kinkakuji and Ryoanji, enhancing its appeal as a dining destination in Kyoto.

## History
### The story of 克
克 was founded with the vision of creating a welcoming space where guests could enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine in a friendly environment. The owners, a husband and wife team, have dedicated themselves to sharing their love for okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake, with both locals and visitors. Their passion for food and hospitality has made 克 a beloved spot in the neighborhood.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a local eatery focusing on okonomiyaki
- Gained popularity through word-of-mouth and positive reviews
- Recognized for exceptional customer service and authentic culinary experience
- Grown to become a top-rated restaurant on platforms like TripAdvisor

### Cultural and local influence
克 plays a significant role in promoting Kyoto's culinary heritage. By serving traditional okonomiyaki, the restaurant not only satisfies the appetites of its patrons but also educates them about this iconic dish. The owners often engage with customers, sharing insights about the history and preparation of okonomiyaki, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for local cuisine.

### Continuing the tradition
The couple at 克 is committed to preserving the traditional methods of making okonomiyaki, ensuring that each dish is crafted with care and authenticity. They emphasize the importance of using fresh ingredients and maintaining the cultural significance of the dish. Their dedication to quality and tradition has helped keep the culinary heritage of Kyoto alive in a modern dining context.

## Community
### Community involvement
克 is not just a restaurant; it serves as a community hub where locals and visitors come together to share a meal and connect. The owners often participate in local events and festivals, showcasing their culinary skills and promoting the importance of community bonding through food. Their involvement helps strengthen ties within the neighborhood and encourages a sense of belonging.

### Community notion about the place
The local community holds 克 in high regard, often recommending it as a top dining destination. Many residents appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the owners' willingness to engage with customers. This positive perception has fostered a loyal customer base, with many returning for the exceptional food and warm hospitality.

### Events and gatherings
克 occasionally hosts small events and gatherings, allowing patrons to experience traditional Japanese dining in a communal setting. These events often feature special menus or cooking demonstrations, providing an opportunity for guests to learn more about okonomiyaki and Japanese culinary practices while enjoying a meal together.

## Offerings
### What 克 offers
克 specializes in okonomiyaki, offering a variety of options that cater to different tastes. Guests can enjoy the experience of watching their meal being prepared right in front of them, adding an interactive element to their dining experience. The restaurant's focus on quality and authenticity ensures that each dish is flavorful and satisfying.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at 克 is unique, as guests are seated around a large grill where their okonomiyaki is cooked to order. This setup not only enhances the flavor of the food but also creates a lively and engaging atmosphere. The owners take pride in explaining the preparation process and encouraging guests to enjoy their meal in the traditional Kyoto style, directly off the grill.

### Events and packages
克 offers special packages for groups and events, making it an ideal location for celebrations or gatherings. These packages often include a selection of okonomiyaki and other dishes, allowing guests to sample a variety of flavors. The intimate setting of the restaurant makes it perfect for small parties looking for a unique dining experience.

### Facilities and features
- Cozy seating for a limited number of guests
- Grill-top dining experience
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff
- Engaging atmosphere with personal interactions
- Convenient location near major attractions

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of 克 highlight the restaurant's exceptional service, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere. Many patrons express their appreciation for the owners' friendliness and willingness to share their culinary knowledge. The intimate setting and unique dining experience are frequently mentioned as standout features.

### Compliments and strengths
- Outstanding customer service and hospitality
- Authentic and flavorful okonomiyaki
- Engaging dining experience with cooking demonstrations
- Convenient location near popular tourist spots
- Positive atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some guests have noted that the restaurant's small size can lead to limited seating availability, especially during peak hours. This may require some visitors to wait for a table, but many agree that the experience is well worth it.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, 克 is highly regarded for its delicious food and exceptional service. The combination of a unique dining experience, friendly owners, and a commitment to quality makes it a must-visit restaurant in Kyoto. Visitors leave with not only a satisfied appetite but also fond memories of their time spent at this hidden gem.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
克 is located in the picturesque district of Ukyo-ku in Kyoto, Japan, specifically at 右京区龍安寺斎宮町1-4, Kyoto, 616-8011. This area is rich in cultural heritage and is home to several notable attractions, including the famous Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoanji Temple, known for its rock garden. Visitors to these sites often find themselves drawn to 克 for a delicious meal, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the local area.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does 克 serve** The restaurant specializes in okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake.  
**Is there seating available** Yes, the restaurant has limited seating, with a grill-top dining experience.  
**Do the owners speak English** Yes, the owners are proficient in English and provide explanations about the menu.  
**What are the restaurant hours** Specific hours may vary, so it's best to check before visiting.  
**Is 克 suitable for large groups** The restaurant is small, making it more suitable for intimate gatherings rather than large groups.

## Visit 克 Today
克 offers a delightful dining experience that combines authentic Japanese cuisine with warm hospitality. With its rich history, community involvement, and a menu that showcases the best of okonomiyaki, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in Kyoto. Guests can expect to enjoy not only delicious food but also a friendly atmosphere that makes every meal memorable. Whether you're a local or a traveler, make sure to stop by 克 for a unique culinary adventure.

5f02a7fb-61f1-486f-a8a6-e09b5e8642f1

Incredible. The food is top notch, the couple that runs the place is incredibly friendly, and they're great at introducing foreigners to okonomiyaki in an approachable way. Also: The food is not as heavy as we expected. We were a bit concerned since we had a busy day planned after this meal, but it was totally fine. More than fine: Perfect, actually.

082b4d7b-f870-47d4-ab4f-68a0cae7e875

If you're visiting Kinkakuji or Ryoanji and feeling hungry, get some okonomiyaki here. It's about a 5 minute walk! A small hole-in-the-wall stop run by a super nice couple, they make your okonomiyaki fresh right in front of you. And do not beware English speakers! Both of them are really good at English and even explain how to eat your okonomiyaki properly. They enjoy talking to the customers and the husband complemented my rudimentary Japanese haha. I got the okonomiyaki with noodles in it and it only cost about ¥750 or so if I remember correctly. The portion is pretty big though and I barely finished mine. You eat right off the frying surface, which according to the owners is how it's done in Kyoto. It's small with about only 4 seats in front of the stove and small tables in the back so it can get pretty crowded.

8c7c4d94-6ba9-4612-b8c7-15a9df93f746

This was a great meal. The owners/chefs are a married couple who speak fairly good English and explain the menu quite thoroughly for people (like myself) who haven't really eaten okonimiyaki. They have a big stovetop in the front that seats 4 and have a small dining area at the back that probably seats 8 people. We had the beef okonimiyaki (pancake w/ veggies and beef kind of like a savory crepe) and pork yaki-soba (fried noodles). It was so good, the egg portion of the pancake felt like it melted in your mouth. They put small amounts of thinly cut pork and beef inside, but despite the small portions, you can taste the flavor. Both the noodles and okonimiyaki filled us up, but I wanted more so I ordered a combo to go. It wasn't just the food that made this meal great, but the owners really take great pride in making the food and they really want you to have a great experience. If you're in Kyoto, check it out!!

4934fef6-2497-42c0-b7ac-0584d3ce8bbd

I love this place. The walk down the narrow neighborhood street after riding the old street car from near our Airbnb served to set the mood, and we were ready to eat! Then, we walked in. The owners, a married couple, were extremely friendly and very welcoming. They seated us at our own grill-topped table in the back, and we sat on pillows on the elevated floor in traditional style. Their English was, dare I say, impeccable. They offered us their hospitality, conversation, and recommendations (osusume) for what we should order. We ended up getting the modern yaki - which was basically a folded okonomiyaki full of yakisoba. They cooked it for us and placed it on our grill table top to keep it warm, then proceeded to describe how best to eat it. We've had okonomiyaki many times, and make it at home sometimes, so we knew. However, their politeness and willingness to help was appreciated and enjoyed. Soon after, the wife offered to take a photo for us, an offer we accepted. When we finished up, we had a conversation with both of them about our trip to Japan and about our home town (LA). Turns out, the husband had been there before and loves the beach! All in all, it was a wonderful experience and a great night in Kyoto - and it was one of the highlights of our trip. Do yourself a favor and find this place if you're in town. It's near Ryoan-ji in the northwest part of the city.

1b0a8b8d-6c0c-4e59-bf5b-ecd6ef5cdb6f

We stopped here after a long day of walking. Even as a group of 6, our service was excellent! They were so kind to us and taught us tourists how to eat our food. We had such a great experience.

8acccc68-fde6-4117-9dad-ae40b8d6bcfa

This restaurant did not disappoint whatsoever; the service, tastiness, and prices made this one of my favorite restaurants in Kyoto. Firstly, to provide some context, I walked 5 miles and waited an hour in line and felt the experience was completely worth it. The mom and pop store feels extremely homey, and the service is unbeatable. The owners absolutely love their jobs, and are some of the happiest people I met in Japan. If you're lucky, you will get a seat at the main table, where they cook the dishes on a huge stove on which you also eat--it feels similar to hibachi style. Aside from the cool cooking experience, the food also tasted fantastic and was priced reasonably. I ordered the okonomiyaki, the noodles, and the mushrooms. Each dish tasted delectable. In total, I spent less than ¥2000. This is a must visit if you want a memorable meal!

4f5f39ad-a4bf-4241-9e86-7c6983103d5b

This was the food of a lifetime. They are very friendly and speak wonderful English. I can't wait to return. Get a draft Yebisu and it makes everything perfect.

e8485583-efd6-40e3-a5e9-7fcfec01861c

What a great hidden gem this place is. My wife and I had just finished touring Ryoan-ji and were craving some lunch. After just a short walk to the nearby village, we stumbled across this place. It has only a couple of tables in the back and 4 seats by the kitchen. We sat down at the kitchen counter where they fry the food literally right in front of you. We shared an order of Okonomiyaki and one order of Modern Okonomiyaki (which includes noodles). We literally ate the meals right off the frying surface which is how it is done in Kyoto according to the owner. I am no expert on Okonomiyaki, but the food was delicious and the couple who owned and ran the place were super friendly and we had a great conversation with them. I strongly recommend this place both for the food and for the great hospitality.

c2902bc5-79c0-4245-959a-46fadf89e761

Wouldn't go out of your way (like we did) as they have very low capacity and wouldn't seat us (even if we'd waited).

36697c7f-83a4-4bbd-8cbe-99c2719bf00f

This is the best restaurant I've been to in Japan. And has the best customer service in the world. The food is cheap and delicious. The lady is absolutely the sweetest and thanked us for visiting the small restaurant. It's no wonder why it's rated #1 out of 6000+ restaurants on TripAdvisor. The menu is great because it's short and to the point. Many pancake options from plain to a combination of seafoods! We also got ice cream because we loved this place so much! It's near the rock garden so hit that up then come here!

Discover 克 in Kyoto, Japan's historic city. Experience authentic cuisine in a charming setting. Visit now for a memorable culinary adventure.

克 Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at 克

Family Kitchen Pu

Janbo

Tully'S Coffee Ritsumeikan University Kinugasa Campus