Discover an exceptional dining experience at Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen , a Michelin-starred French restaurant nestled in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district. Here, French culinary artistry meets the delicate influences of American and Asian flavors, creating a harmonious fusion that excites the palate and elevates your dining journey.
Situated at 235 Shinmonzen-dori, this elegant eatery offers guests a serene and stylish ambiance, enhanced by an inviting terrace that overlooks the tranquil Shirakawa River. Whether you choose to dine indoors or savor your meal al fresco, the peaceful surroundings promise a magical Kyoto evening. The restaurant’s attentive staff provide warm hospitality, making every visit feel both exclusive and welcoming.
The menu at Jean-Georges evolves with the seasons, showcasing the freshest local ingredients to craft dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Highlights include the legendary Wagyu beef tenderloin, praised for its melt-in-the-mouth tenderness, and exquisite desserts like the luscious strawberry creations. The culinary experience is thoughtfully curated, balancing classic French techniques with innovative touches influenced by the restaurant’s diverse team.
- Exceptional cuisine with Michelin-star quality and exquisite flavor combinations.
- Scenic dining with serene views of the Shirakawa River and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Attentive service by knowledgeable staff who enhance the overall experience.
- Perfect for special occasions with customizable tasting menus and thoughtful touches like celebratory desserts.
Positive — Guests consistently praise the high quality of food, exceptional service, and the tranquil atmosphere that makes dining at Jean-Georges a memorable experience in Kyoto.
- What are the operating hours of Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen? The restaurant operates daily with breakfast from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM (last order at 9:30 AM), lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM (last order at 1:00 PM), and dinner from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM (last order at 8:30 PM). Note that the tasting menu for dinner is not available on Sundays and Mondays.
- Is there a dress code at Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen? No, the restaurant does not enforce a specific dress code, welcoming guests in comfortable attire.
- Does Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen accept credit cards? Yes, they accept major credit cards including VISA, MasterCard, JCB, American Express, and Diners Club.
- Is parking available at Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen? The restaurant does not have its own parking, but convenient coin parking options are available nearby.
- Is Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen wheelchair accessible? Yes, the restaurant is fully wheelchair accessible to ensure comfort for all guests.
Nestled along the serene Shirakawa River, Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen is not just a restaurant; it is a captivating culinary experience that weaves together the rich traditions of Kyoto with innovative French cuisine. The restaurant opened its doors on March 15, 2023, marking the arrival of a new gem in Kyoto's vibrant dining scene. This Michelin-starred establishment is the brainchild of world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, who artfully blends French, American, and Asian flavors to create a unique dining experience that celebrates local ingredients in seasonal menus.
The establishment quickly garnered attention, being listed as a Selected Restaurant in the Michelin Guide shortly after its opening in 2023. This recognition is a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence and innovative dining, attracting food enthusiasts from around the world to Kyoto. As the restaurant continued to delight its guests with meticulously crafted dishes and an inviting atmosphere, it maintained its place in the Michelin Guide into the following year.
In 2025, Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen achieved a significant milestone by being awarded one Michelin star in the 2025 Michelin Guide. This honor not only solidifies its status as a premier dining destination in Kyoto but also highlights the restaurant's dedication to providing an unforgettable gastronomic journey. With each dish, guests are invited to indulge in a harmonious fusion of flavors, artfully presented in a setting that reflects the elegance of Japanese architecture designed by Tadao Ando.
- 2023: Restaurant opened on March 15.
- 2023: Listed as a Selected Restaurant in the Michelin Guide.
- 2024: Re-listed as a Selected Restaurant in the Michelin Guide.
- 2025: Awarded one Michelin star in the 2025 Michelin Guide.
Nestled in the historic Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen represents a Michelin-starred jewel of French cuisine. This acclaimed restaurant masterfully blends seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with the refined techniques of classic French gastronomy, offering guests a truly sophisticated dining experience. With its stylish and tranquil setting along the picturesque Shirakawa River, the atmosphere invites both culinary adventurers and discerning food lovers to savor exquisite dishes in an elegant yet relaxed environment.
Jean-Georges excels in delivering a memorable culinary journey that features seasonal tasting menus highlighting local Kyoto ingredients at their finest. Guests can enjoy their meals in private dining rooms or relax on the scenic terrace seating overlooking the Shirakawa River, enhancing the dining ambiance with nature’s serenity. The restaurant is committed to accessibility and comfort, offering a non-smoking environment, accommodating families with children, and ensuring wheelchair accessibility. Moreover, it accepts major credit cards, facilitating a convenient and seamless experience.
While Jean-Georges offers an exceptional dining experience, there are a couple of limitations to note. The full tasting menu is not available on Sundays and Mondays, which may affect those looking for the complete culinary showcase on those days. Additionally, the restaurant does not provide on-site parking, which could require visitors to plan alternative transportation or parking arrangements nearby.
For food enthusiasts seeking a Michelin-starred French restaurant in Kyoto, Jean-Georges delivers an unmatched combination of culinary artistry, seasonal freshness, and sublime presentation. The peaceful setting along Shirakawa River provides a unique backdrop that complements the refined menu, making it an excellent choice for special occasions, romantic dinners, or sophisticated gatherings. The attentive and knowledgeable staff further elevate the experience, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully managed.
- Pros: Michelin-starred status with seasonal, locally inspired French cuisine.
- Offers stylish terrace seating by the Shirakawa River and private dining rooms.
- Family-friendly and wheelchair accessible with a non-smoking environment.
- Cons: Tasting menu not available on Sundays and Mondays, and no on-site parking.
