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Kyoto

Kiyama is highly praised for its authentic kaiseki cuisine, attentive service, and serene ambiance. Guests appreciate the use of seasonal ingredients and the chef's dedication to traditional techniques. The intimate setting and private room options are also highlighted as notable features.

Discover Kiyama: Kyoto's Authentic Kaiseki Culinary Gem at Verdor Goshō 1F Kinuyachō 136 in Nakagyo Ward Japan 604-0804 

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward, Kiyama offers a truly authentic kaiseki dining experience that captivates food lovers and travelers seeking Japan's refined culinary traditions. Located on the first floor of the Verdor Goshō building in Kinuyachō, this restaurant is a serene haven where seasonal ingredients are masterfully crafted into exquisite multi-course meals.

An Unforgettable Kaiseki Journey with Chef Kiyama's Inspired Dashi Broth and Rice Selection

Kiyama is celebrated for its purity of flavors and creative use of seasonal ingredients, particularly the chef's signature dashi broth that delights diners time and again. Guests rave about the outstanding rice bowls served at the end of each meal — with five varieties including a superb Unagi rice — allowing you to choose your portion size to avoid feeling overly full. This thoughtful touch enhances the overall dining experience, making every visit unique and satisfying.

Warm Hospitality and Intimate Ambiance in Kyoto's Culinary Scene

The atmosphere at Kiyama is intimate and calming, enhanced by Chef Kiyama's warm hospitality that makes guests feel truly cared for. While some diners prefer the lively counter seating to fully engage with the chef, private room options provide a peaceful setting perfect for special occasions. Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity, but securing a spot is often doable even a few weeks ahead — especially for lunch, which offers excellent value without compromising quality.

Why Kiyama Stands Out in Kyoto's Dining Landscape

 showcasing traditional techniques and seasonal ingredients.

 that completes the meal with perfect balance.

 with private rooms and attentive service.

 with options to book online or by phone, even on short notice.

What is the price range for meals at Kiyama?

 Lunch courses start at ¥14,520, while dinner courses range from ¥30,250 to ¥36,300.

 Yes, reservations are required and can be made through the official website or by phone.

 Children are welcome in the private room, but strollers can be brought into the restaurant; however, no baby or high chairs are available.

 Smart casual attire is recommended. Beach sandals, athletic wear, T-shirts, tank tops, camisoles, and short pants are not permitted.

 Credit cards are accepted for advance payments during online reservations. Additional orders at the restaurant can be paid with cash or credit card.

Community Sentiment and Experience Highlights

Kiyama enjoys glowing reviews from locals and visitors alike, with diners praising the chef's dedication to traditional kaiseki techniques and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's serene ambiance and attentive service create a memorable setting that truly enhances each meal. Whether indulging in the delicate sashimi courses or savoring the rich dashi broth, guests consistently describe Kiyama as a top-tier dining destination in Kyoto.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Kiyama offers a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary. This intimate restaurant, located on the first floor of the elegant Verdore Goshō building, invites diners to indulge in a meticulously crafted kaiseki menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors. With its warm ambiance and attentive service, Kiyama is not just a meal; it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of Japanese cuisine.

At Kiyama, each dish is a masterpiece, artfully presented and bursting with flavor. One standout dish is the delicate sashimi, sourced from the freshest local seafood, which melts in your mouth and showcases the chef’s skill in balancing flavors. Another must-try is the rich dashi broth, which serves as the foundation for many dishes, offering a depth of umami that is simply unforgettable. The meal is thoughtfully concluded with a selection of five different rice types, allowing diners to choose their favorites and savor each bite.

Kiyama prides itself on its commitment to seasonal ingredients. The chef often shares stories about sourcing fresh produce from local farmers, ensuring that every dish reflects the essence of Kyoto’s culinary heritage. This dedication to quality is evident in the vibrant colors and flavors that grace each plate.

Conveniently located in Nakagyo Ward, Kiyama is surrounded by cultural landmarks and attractions. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Nijo Castle or the serene gardens of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The vibrant streets of Kyoto are just a short walk away, offering a perfect blend of history and modernity.

Kiyama is renowned for its exquisite kaiseki dining experience, showcasing seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors.

Visiting Kiyama offers a unique opportunity to experience the artistry of kaiseki cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Kiyama is conveniently located near Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, making it a perfect stop after exploring these historic sites.

Embark on a culinary adventure at Kiyama, where every meal is a celebration of flavors and tradition. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this hidden gem in Kyoto promises an unforgettable dining experience. Make your reservation today and discover the magic of kaiseki cuisine.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNueXFyUC13RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6o6XIgIAWARXiYCduy8dZc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNueXFyUC13RRAB

The food here was just amazing. We tried many different dishes and all of them cooked to perfection. The wine pairing was also quite good with the food and also we were full after the whole meal since they offered 5 different types of rice. Incredible experience and a really amazing selection of ingredients.

I put 4 stars is because they didn’t give us a counter sit and they put us in an isolated room. The atmosphere is for sure not the same sitting in an isolated room as in the counter and also we didn’t feel as well taken care of (eg water was not refilled often etc), when we pay 500 USD for a meal, these things are expected.
Other than that it was great.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQcS1xUUhBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6o6XIgIAWARXiYCduy8dZc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQcS1xUUhBEAE

We had a very memorable dinner at Kiyama. Each dish had an amazing purity of flavors, with the soup especially standing out. We also loved the atmosphere of the restaurant and Chef Kiyama’s warm hospitality

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmalphX0R3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6o6XIgIAWARXiYCduy8dZc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmalphX0R3EAE

I've been here 3 times now and it's one of my favorite restaurants anywhere in Japan! The chef is incredibly creative with utilizing seasonal ingredients, and his dashi broth is just delicious every time. I also like that the meals ends with several rice bowls and you can choose how much you want so you don't get overly full.

I'll definitely aim to come here every time I visit Kyoto, especially because it's not that hard to make a reservation, even a couple weeks in advance. Also, I like both the lunch and the dinner courses, but I'd probably recommend lunch more since it's cheaper and just as good!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURScXJUWG53RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6o6XIgIAWARXiYCduy8dZc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURScXJUWG53RRAB

This was a dream-like experience for me. Definitely top 5 dining experience in my life. I am a seafood lover and I love fatty things, so everything I had that night was right up my alley. The sashimi course and the octopus were just out of this world… I’d had so much sashimi in my life through various omakase experiences, and didn’t know sashimi could be this good.

The good thing is that compared to other kaiseki restaurants in Kyoto, you can easily book this one online via Pocket Concierge (who charges less fees compared to TableAll). I will definitely return next time I’m in Kyoto!

Edit: I returned just half a year later, and it was just as good ❤️

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMwM3BfMXVRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJq6o6XIgIAWARXiYCduy8dZc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMwM3BfMXVRRRAB

Excellent food. So delicious. Great interpret of Japanese dashi.
The chef and the staff are friendly to new guests and are willing to help you get the reservation.
The rice is another highlight. Must try all of them - they are all delicious. The Unagi rice is superb.
I shall come back~ well, if I could get the reservation. The Nov has been all booked.

Kiyama Restaurant: Luxury Kaiseki Dining in Kyoto's Nakagyo

Kiyama, established in 2017, earned its first Michelin star in 2018, becoming one of Kyoto's most acclaimed kaiseki restaurants.

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward, Kiyama is a beacon of culinary artistry that has captivated food enthusiasts since its inception. Established in 2017, this exquisite restaurant quickly rose to prominence in the competitive world of Japanese haute cuisine, particularly in the revered kaiseki tradition.

Kiyama's rapid ascent was marked by the awarding of its first Michelin star in 2018, a testament to its exceptional dedication to quality, presentation, and authentic flavors. This prestigious accolade positioned Kiyama as one of Kyoto's most acclaimed kaiseki restaurants, attracting both locals and international gourmets eager to experience its refined offerings.

Kiyama opened its doors in Kyoto, introducing a fresh approach to the traditional kaiseki experience.

Kiyama was awarded its first Michelin star, a milestone that cemented its reputation for excellence in Kyoto's culinary scene.

Today, Kiyama stands as a symbol of innovation and tradition harmoniously blended. Its chefs skillfully use seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that highlight the purity of flavors, all while respecting the centuries-old kaiseki techniques. Dining at Kiyama offers an immersive experience into Kyoto’s rich gastronomic heritage, enhanced by the warm hospitality that has become its hallmark.

Restroom

Kiyama is a culinary gem located in the heart of Kyoto’s Nakagyo Ward, offering an eclectic menu that showcases the finest of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant blends tradition with contemporary flair, providing an inviting ambiance and a rich aroma of expertly prepared dishes. Seasonal ingredients are carefully selected to create vibrant meals that celebrate Kyoto’s culinary heritage. Kiyama also offers an array of exquisite sake and refreshing beverages, making it a delightful dining experience.

Kiyama

Experience authentic Japanese kaiseki cuisine with seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques.

Lunch Course

Dinner Course

Unagi Rice

Mackerel Dish

Tempura

Clear Soup

Matcha Dessert

Kiyama Menu

At Kiyama, located in the heart of Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward, you will embark on a memorable culinary journey featuring authentic Japanese kaiseki cuisine. This exquisite menu showcases a masterful use of seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, highlighted by the chef's signature well water dashi and freshly shaved bonito flakes that infuse each dish with delicate umami flavors.

Begin your meal with artfully prepared starters designed to awaken the palate. The Tempura features an assortment of seasonal vegetables and fresh seafood, lightly battered and fried to achieve a perfect crispness. Alternatively, the Clear Soup offers a soothing combination of seasonal vegetables and fresh fish immersed in a pristine, delicate broth, exemplifying the purity of traditional Japanese flavors.

The mains at Kiyama include meticulously crafted courses that highlight the best seasonal ingredients. Choose between the Lunch Course and Dinner Course, both featuring fresh seasonal produce, the chef’s signature dashi broth, and the fragrant touch of shaved bonito flakes. For seafood lovers, the Mackerel Dish offers fresh mackerel paired with seasonal vegetables, grilled to perfection to bring out rich, natural flavors.

Another beloved main is the Unagi Rice, featuring tender grilled eel served atop perfectly steamed rice, finished with a sweet soy sauce glaze that creates a harmonious blend of savory and sweet notes – a true highlight for those seeking a classic Kyoto flavor experience.

Conclude your meal on a refined note with the Matcha Dessert, which features premium Kyoto matcha, complemented by seasonal fruits and sweetened red bean paste. This dessert perfectly balances earthy bitterness and natural sweetness, providing a satisfying and authentic end to your dining experience.

Kiyama’s menu is a celebration of seasonality and tradition, with each dish thoughtfully prepared to highlight the purity and depth of Japanese flavors. The option to select multiple types of rice at the end of the meal ensures you enjoy a tailored dining experience without becoming overly full — a unique touch that reflects Kiyama’s attention to guest satisfaction and culinary excellence.

Carefully curated wine pairings that complement the delicate flavors of each dish

A selection of locally brewed beers perfect for casual enjoyment

Savor authentic Japanese cuisine at Kiyama, nestled in Kyoto's vibrant Nakagyo Ward. Experience culinary delights today!

Kiyama Kyoto: Authentic Japanese Cuisine in Nakagyo

Kyoto Municipality

A private room accommodating 4-5 guests, suitable for special occasions.

Private Room

9 seats at the counter for an intimate dining experience.

Counter Seating

Kiyama offers an exceptional kaiseki dining experience nestled in the vibrant Nakagyo Ward of Kyoto. Located on the 1F of the verdant Verdor Goshō building in Kinuyachō, this restaurant is a must-visit for savoring meticulously crafted seasonal Japanese dishes. With a focus on purity of flavor and the artful use of dashi broth, Kiyama elevates traditional cuisine to a refined culinary journey.

Kiyama: Exquisite Kaiseki Dining in Kyoto's Heartstone Culinary Scene.

Kiyama caters to both privacy seekers and those who relish the interactive charm of counter dining. Guests can choose between a private room accommodating 4-5 people, perfect for special celebrations, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the intimate counter with nine seats. This layout invites diners to connect directly with Chef Kiyama, enhancing the culinary storytelling and experience.

An Intimate Setting with Personalized Hospitality.

 shine throughout the tasting menus, featuring masterful preparations that highlight the delicate umami of each element. Highlights include impeccably fresh sashimi and a rich octopus dish that seafood lovers rave about. The soup courses, known for their purity, are crafted to evoke traditional Japanese comfort with exquisite finesse.

One of Kiyama’s signature touches is the finale featuring five different types of rice. Diners appreciate being able to select their preferred amount so they can enjoy the meal fully without feeling overly stuffed. Standout rice dishes include the luxurious unagi rice, praised for its superb flavor and texture, rounding out the meal with satisfying authenticity.

The restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere with attentive service, although some guests note more engagement at the counter seats compared to private rooms. Reservations are recommended but relatively accessible even with just a couple weeks’ notice, making Kiyama an excellent choice for both planned visits and spontaneous culinary adventures in Kyoto.

Experience authentic kaiseki with a creative chef, perfectly paired wines, and a menu that serves lunch and dinner but not breakfast or brunch. The setting is refined yet approachable, ideal for adult diners looking for a memorable meal in Kyoto without distractions like children or live music.

 - Enjoy fresh, perfectly crafted dishes served on site.

 - Convenient payment options for international travelers.

 - Thoughtful beverage pairings elevate your dining experience.

Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a traveler eager to immerse yourself in Kyoto's culinary heritage, Kiyama promises an unforgettable kaiseki meal. Its creative dishes, refined atmosphere, and accessible reservation policy make it a standout destination for those seeking authentic Japanese cuisine with a personal touch.

Kiyama restaurant in Kyoto overview and experience insights.

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward, Kiyama offers a refined journey into authentic kaiseki cuisine, celebrated for its elegant presentation and seasonal ingredients. This Michelin-starred gem is revered for its chef's creative mastery in crafting dishes that highlight purity of flavor, especially through its expertly prepared dashi broths and exquisite sashimi selections. Diners often praise the serene ambiance and the intimate counter seating that fosters a personal connection with the culinary artistry.

 include attentive service that makes guests feel genuinely cared for, a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere ideal for savoring a luxurious meal, and the option of a private room for a more secluded dining experience. The restaurant's dedication to seasonal ingredients ensures that every plate offers freshness and a connection to Kyoto's natural bounty. Furthermore, the use of diverse rice bowls to accompany the meal allows guests to customize their fullness level, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Authentic kaiseki cuisine crafted with seasonal ingredients.

Intimate counter seating and private room options.

Michelin-starred recognition reflecting culinary excellence.

Serene ambiance perfect for special occasions or intimate gatherings.

Attentive staff delivering warm and professional hospitality.

While Kiyama excels in delivering an unforgettable kaiseki dining experience, there are a few practical factors guests should be aware of. This restaurant requires advance reservations, which is common among top-tier establishments but limits spontaneous visits. There is no parking available on-site, so travelers should plan accordingly using public transportation or nearby parking options. Additionally, Kiyama enforces a formal dress code to preserve its refined atmosphere, which may be restrictive for casual visitors.

 to secure a spot at this popular Michelin-starred venue.

 on premises, so plan transportation ahead.

 making it unsuitable for families with infants.

 to maintain the elegant dining environment.

 ensuring an undistracted and respectful atmosphere.

Kiyama represents an exquisite opportunity to indulge in Kyoto's celebrated culinary tradition with a modern, artistic touch. Its blend of authentic flavors, meticulous attention to detail, and a peaceful dining setting makes it a top choice for food enthusiasts and those seeking a memorable meal. Visitors should plan ahead to navigate the reservation and dress code policies, and embrace the no-photos rule as part of immersing in the refined experience. With its Michelin-starred status and strong local reputation, Kiyama stands as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Japanese kaiseki at its finest.

Whether you choose lunch or dinner, Kiyama’s thoughtful menu and warm hospitality promise a rewarding culinary adventure in the cultural heart of Kyoto.

Kyoto Prefecture

Discover Kyoto's Kiyama, a Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant offering seasonal delights. Reserve your unforgettable dining experience today!

Kiyama Restaurant: Experience Fine Kaiseki in Kyoto

Explore Kiyama's seasonal kaiseki menu! Learn about pricing, offerings, and tips for securing your reservation at this renowned Kyoto restaurant.

Kiyama's Exquisite Menu & Reservation Tips

Kiyama, awarded its first Michelin star in 2018, offers authentic kaiseki experiences crafted from seasonal ingredients in a serene ambiance.

Kiyama menu overview

starters

mains

desserts

special dining experience

drinks

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