Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

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

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 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

TOKI is highly praised for its innovative Kyoto-French cuisine, exceptional service, and beautiful ambiance. Guests appreciate the fusion of Japanese and French flavors, the use of seasonal local ingredients, and the attentive staff. The restaurant's setting within Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto, overlooking a serene garden, adds to the overall dining experience.

Discover Toki - Kyoto's Fusion Culinary Gem in Nakagyo Ward Japan  

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's historic Nakagyo Ward, TOKI offers an extraordinary dining journey that artfully blends traditional Japanese ingredients with refined French culinary techniques. Located at 284 Nijōaburanokōjichō, within the elegant Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto, this restaurant boasts a tranquil garden view that perfectly complements its sophisticated ambiance.

A Unique Taste Experience Fusing Kyoto and French Flavors

TOKI is celebrated for its innovative approach to fine dining, showcasing a Japanese-inspired French tasting menu. Drawing from Kyoto’s renowned natural ingredients—including the pure Fushimi water used to craft delicate dashi broths—the chefs elevate every dish with precision and creativity. Guests can savor courses featuring sake lees with foie gras, ama-ebi prawns paired with taro, Saikyo miso salmon crowned with ikura salmon roe, and much more. The restaurant’s commitment to local, seasonal produce ensures each bite bursts with freshness and authentic flavor.

Dining at TOKI is not just a meal; it’s a beautifully orchestrated experience. 

The intimate chef’s counter invites guests to witness culinary artistry up close, while the serene garden view offers a romantic backdrop perfect for special occasions. Meticulous service and thoughtfully paired wines enhance every course, earning TOKI enthusiastic praise from international food lovers and experts alike.

What Makes TOKI Stand Out in Kyoto’s Culinary Scene

 showcasing local Kyoto ingredients with a French twist.

 including a chef’s counter and romantic garden view dining.

 praised for attentive staff fluent in English accommodating diverse dietary needs.

 inside Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto with parking and easy access to Nijojo-mae Station.

 TOKI recommends smart casual attire for guests.

 Yes, parking is available at Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto for guests dining at TOKI.

 Yes, TOKI offers vegetarian options upon request.

Is there a private dining room available?

 Yes, TOKI has a private dining room that can accommodate up to 6 guests.

 TOKI operates from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM daily.

The community sentiment around TOKI is overwhelmingly positive. Guests frequently highlight the exceptional quality of the tasting courses, with many declaring it the best fine dining experience they have enjoyed. The seamless fusion of French and Japanese cuisine crafted by a chef trained in prestigious Parisian kitchens elevates TOKI to a must-visit destination for gourmands visiting Kyoto. Attentive service, English-speaking staff, and a welcoming atmosphere make it accessible and enjoyable for international travelers. Its location inside a luxury hotel with peaceful garden views further enhances the overall experience, making it a perfect spot for romantic dinners, special celebrations, or an exquisite culinary adventure.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Toki offers a unique dining experience that beautifully marries French culinary techniques with traditional Japanese flavors. Located at 284 Nijōaburanokōjichō, this restaurant is not just a meal; it's a journey through the rich tapestry of Kyoto's culinary heritage. With its intimate setting and a chef's counter that invites guests to witness the artistry of cooking firsthand, Toki is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and travelers alike.

At Toki, every dish is a masterpiece, crafted from locally sourced ingredients that reflect the seasons. Two standout dishes that have captivated diners include the Sake Lees with Foie Gras and the Ama-Ebi Prawns served with Taro. The Sake Lees dish features a rich, buttery foie gras paired with the subtle sweetness of sake lees, creating a harmonious balance that melts in your mouth. Meanwhile, the Ama-Ebi Prawns, delicately prepared with taro root, offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, showcasing the chef's expertise in blending French and Japanese culinary traditions.

One of the unique aspects of Toki is its commitment to using Fushimi water, renowned for its purity and flavor, which is integral to crafting the restaurant's signature dashi. This attention to detail not only enhances the dishes but also connects diners to Kyoto's rich history of sake production. Additionally, the ambiance of Toki, with its serene garden views and intimate chef's counter, creates a memorable dining experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Toki is renowned for its exquisite French-Japanese fusion cuisine, particularly its innovative use of local ingredients and traditional techniques.

Visiting Toki offers a unique culinary experience that combines the best of French and Japanese cuisines, all in a beautifully designed setting that enhances the dining experience.

Toki is conveniently located near several attractions, including the historic Nijo Castle and the beautiful gardens of Kyoto, making it an ideal stop for a day of exploration.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, Toki invites you to indulge in a culinary adventure that promises to delight your senses. Make your reservation today to experience the exquisite flavors and artistry that await you at this remarkable restaurant.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN6dHZIRWNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAUYueyYJAWARKj_KcmlM-8k/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN6dHZIRWNBEAE

We have had dozens of Michelin star dining experiences, and usually we are underwhelmed. This is by far the best fine dining tasting course we have ever had. It deserves multiple stars for several dishes.

So many thoughtful details throughout the experience. Definitely sit at the chefs counter.

We loved the Japanese infused French style of cooking. All local ingredients that elevated everything.

The service and vibes were 10/10 as well.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURkekoyWFJnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAUYueyYJAWARKj_KcmlM-8k/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURkekoyWFJnEAE

If you want a perfect French/Japanese dining experience, Toki is it! Choose the chefs table if you want to be entertained by the chefs doing their magic right in front of you or if you want romantic, ask for garden view.
Pro tip: can be a bit warm sitting in front of stove for chef’s table. And don’t forget the wine pairings, perfect matches course after course.
I’ll let the pictures of the food speak for themselves.
Go now before this place gets a Michelin Star or two, and reservations will become impossible. It’s a when, not if this will happen.
Chef worked at Plaza Athené Alain Ducasse & George V, Ritz Paris. Talented beyond…

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3MFA3OWd3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAUYueyYJAWARKj_KcmlM-8k/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3MFA3OWd3RRAB

One of the best meals in my life very foreigner friendly worth 3 star Michelin especially Nakahama-San who went above and beyond that is expected thank you very much!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURwMGFmRzdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAUYueyYJAWARKj_KcmlM-8k/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURwMGFmRzdBRRAB

❤️ I love my dining experience at Toki!! It was great sitting at the counter, and watched how the chefs played their magic 🪄 SAVE THIS for your next trip to Kyoto and FOLLOW ME for more food recommendations around Japan😍

The restaurant served French-Japanese fusion food, specialised in creating dashi using Kyoto’s renowned water. It was amazing to see the chefs use traditional Japanese ingredients, like sake lees and miso, in French cooking🤩 The service was excellent too - they accommodated our many dietary requirements and the servers spoke fluent English. 👍🏻

💧 We started the meal with a sampling of Fushimi water, which was an underground water used for making sake in the area, and also for making the dashi in this restaurant😆

Then I was served with three beautiful snacks
🍅 Vegetable broth - a tomato crisp, shaped as the crossed section of tomato
🐟 seafood broth -tuna with beetroot
🥩 meat broth - wagyu beef, served with a light wafer, topped with chrysanthemum jelly

The rest of the meal was also fantastic, with the sake lees with foie gras and prawns with taro being my favourite dishes of the night 😆

🎣 Salmon served with saikyo miso and ikura salmon roe
🍖 Sake lees from Mukai Shuzo served with foie gras - love this combination!
🦐 Ama-ebi prawns served with taro root
🥕 Kintoki carrots and peas
🥖 Bread and sake lees butter
🐟 Longtooth grouper, tomato, Gentaku leek
🥩 Kamiseya venison, Jerusalem artichoke and Japanese parsley
🍚 Ancient rice cultivars
🍮 Citrus fruits
🍬 Petit fours:
Matcha canele
Sake lees macaroon
Amber singer candy
Madeleine

📍 @_toki_kyoto
都季 Toki, Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
🚇Nearest Station: Nijojo-mae, Kyoto
💸  12 course dinner  ¥21,500pp

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNCeTktbGlRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAUYueyYJAWARKj_KcmlM-8k/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNCeTktbGlRRRAB

Excellent service, beautiful setting with garden view and the wonderful fusion of French and Japanese culinary arts by Chef Asano, trained by the most famous French chefs. The menu is surprising and delicious. The plates are beautifully balanced. Certainly Michelin star caliber for this new venue.

Experience Luxury Dining at Toki, Kyoto's Premier French-Japanese Restaurant

TOKI, located within Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto, is led by Chef Tetsuya Asano, who has represented Japan at the Bocuse d'Or International Culinary Competition in 2027. The restaurant is featured in the 2024 MICHELIN Guide.

Toki: A Culinary Jewel in Kyoto's Historic Heartland.

Nestled within the elegant confines of Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto, TOKI has swiftly carved a distinctive place in the city's rich tapestry of culinary excellence since its inception in 2020. This esteemed restaurant offers an intricate fusion of French and Japanese cuisine, masterfully helmed by the renowned Chef Tetsuya Asano. Known for his exceptional skills and international acclaim, Chef Asano notably represented Japan at the prestigious Bocuse d'Or International Culinary Competition in 2027, underlining TOKI's global influence and commitment to culinary artistry.

TOKI's journey began in 2020 with its grand opening nestled in the historic Nakagyo Ward of Kyoto. Since then, it has become an epicenter of gourmet innovation, blending local Japanese ingredients with sophisticated French techniques.

In 2024, TOKI’s culinary prowess was formally recognized when it was featured in the revered MICHELIN Guide, a nod to its outstanding dining experience and meticulous attention to detail. This accolade spotlighted TOKI as a destination for discerning food lovers seeking innovative, high-end cuisine in Kyoto.

The year 2027 marked a pinnacle in TOKI's history when Chef Tetsuya Asano proudly represented Japan at the Bocuse d'Or International Culinary Competition, one of the most prestigious global contests in the culinary world. This milestone not only amplified the restaurant’s international prestige but also celebrated the fusion of Japanese tradition with modern culinary excellence.

 A seamless blend of authentic Japanese ingredients with refined French culinary techniques that delights the palate.

 Internationally acclaimed leadership that brings global culinary trends to Kyoto’s historic setting.

 Featured in the MICHELIN Guide and participation at the Bocuse d'Or highlight TOKI’s dedication to excellence.

Dine In

Restroom

Reservations

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Menu for Children

TOKI is a hidden gem in the heart of Kyoto, offering an immersive dining experience that blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary culinary artistry. Guests can enjoy exquisite dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients, including delicate sushi and sumptuous kaiseki meals, all while surrounded by a serene atmosphere that reflects Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.

TOKI

Experience innovative Kyoto-French cuisine at TOKI, featuring seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

Kyoto Fushimizu

Kyoto Radish

Hyogo Firefly Squid

Kyoto Nanatani Duck

Tottori Salmon with Salmon Roe

Kyoto Sake Lees with Foie Gras

Kyoto Shiitake Mushrooms with Guinea Fowl

Kyoto Tamba Ark Shell with New Onions

Kyoto Bread and Sake Lees Butter

Kyoto Spanish Mackerel with Rapeseed Blossoms

Kyoto Roasted Nanatani Duck with Pecoros

Kyoto Ancient Rice Pudding

Kyoto Honey with Kuromoji

TOKI Restaurant Menu

Immerse yourself in an exquisite fusion of Kyoto and French culinary arts at Toki, where each dish is crafted with seasonal local ingredients to create unforgettable flavor experiences. The menu showcases a thoughtful balance of traditional Japanese elements and French techniques, promising a vibrant and refined dining journey.

Start your meal with delicately prepared starters that celebrate Kyoto’s pristine water and seasonal vegetables. Highlights include the refreshing Kyoto Fushimizu showcasing crystal clear Kyoto water alongside fresh seasonal vegetables, the subtly flavored Kyoto Radish served with a refined dashi broth, and the vibrant Hyogo Firefly Squid paired with the best seasonal produce.

The main courses are a masterful blend of Kyoto's finest ingredients and French culinary artistry. Savor the rich Kyoto Nanatani Duck and the succulent Tottori Salmon with Salmon Roe, both enhanced by seasonal vegetables. Indulge in the luxurious Kyoto Sake Lees with Foie Gras, a sublime marriage of local sake lees and premium foie gras. Other standout dishes include the earthy Kyoto Shiitake Mushrooms with tender Guinea Fowl, the fresh Kyoto Tamba Ark Shell complemented by new onions, and the delicate Kyoto Spanish Mackerel adorned with rapeseed blossoms. Complement your meal with Kyoto Bread served alongside a unique sake lees butter, and experience the robust flavors of the Kyoto Roasted Nanatani Duck with Pecoros.

Conclude your dining experience with elegant desserts that highlight Kyoto’s natural sweetness. Delight in the creamy Kyoto Ancient Rice Pudding paired with seasonal fruits, or savor the delicate Kyoto Honey infused with aromatic Kuromoji, offering a perfect balance of flavors to end your meal on a refined note.

Toki offers a curated selection of drinks to complement your meal, including fine wines and beer chosen to enhance the unique flavors of each course. Though the menu does not list specific beverages, the attentive service ensures perfect pairings that elevate your dining experience. Seasonal specials and tasting courses allow guests to explore innovative dishes that blend Kyoto’s heritage with French elegance, making each visit a new culinary discovery.

Kyoto Fushimizu, Kyoto Radish, Hyogo Firefly Squid.

Kyoto Nanatani Duck, Tottori Salmon with Salmon Roe, Kyoto Sake Lees with Foie Gras, Kyoto Shiitake Mushrooms with Guinea Fowl, Kyoto Tamba Ark Shell with New Onions, Kyoto Bread and Sake Lees Butter, Kyoto Spanish Mackerel with Rapeseed Blossoms, Kyoto Roasted Nanatani Duck with Pecoros.

Kyoto Ancient Rice Pudding, Kyoto Honey with Kuromoji.

Savor exquisite flavors at TOKI in Kyoto! Indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine amidst stunning scenery. Reserve your unforgettable meal now!

Enjoy Authentic Japanese Cuisine at TOKI, Kyoto

Kyoto Municipality

Enhance your dining experience with a selection of wines paired to complement each course.

Wine Pairing

Enjoy an exclusive dining experience in a private room accommodating up to 6 guests.

Private Dining Room

Discover an exquisite culinary journey at TOKI, Kyoto’s premier French-Japanese fusion restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward, TOKI is a refined dining destination that masterfully blends French culinary techniques with authentic Japanese ingredients. Located at 284 Nijōaburanokōjichō, this restaurant offers an unforgettable tasting course that has impressed even seasoned Michelin-star diners. The creative use of Kyoto’s renowned water to craft delicate dashi broths, alongside local delicacies such as sake lees, miso, and seasonal vegetables, provides a unique gastronomic experience that elevates traditional fusion cuisine to new heights.

A sophisticated setting with personalized service and atmosphere

TOKI offers an intimate ambience with options to dine at the chef’s counter or in a private dining room overlooking a serene garden. Sitting at the chef’s counter provides a front-row seat to watch culinary artistry unfold, where the chefs expertly prepare each course with precision and flair. For a more romantic or exclusive experience, the private dining room accommodates up to six guests, perfect for special celebrations or business gatherings. The attentive staff ensures impeccable service, accommodating dietary preferences and making every visit memorable.

Exquisite menu highlights and wine pairings

The 12-course tasting menu at TOKI showcases a captivating harmony between French technique and Japanese flavors. Signature dishes include sake lees paired with foie gras, succulent ama-ebi prawns with taro, and fresh salmon served with Saikyo miso and ikura salmon roe. Each course is meticulously crafted using the freshest local ingredients, emphasizing balance, texture, and presentation. Enhance your meal with expert wine pairings that perfectly complement each dish, elevating the overall dining experience to new levels of sophistication.

 – Complimentary expert selection to accompany each course

 – Exclusive space for up to 6 guests at 38,000 JPY, ideal for special occasions

Conveniently located near Nijojo-mae Station, TOKI is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a refined dining experience in Kyoto. Reservations are recommended to secure a spot at this popular establishment, especially for the coveted chef’s counter and private room. TOKI serves lunch, dinner, desserts, coffee, beer, and wine, catering to a discerning crowd. While outdoor seating and takeout are not available, the cozy interior and exceptional service create the perfect setting to savor every bite. Please note that the restaurant is not suitable for children but offers a children’s menu for young guests.

Kyoto Prefecture

Experience exquisite Kyoto-French fusion at TOKI, where Chef Tetsuya Asano elevates local ingredients to fine dining perfection. Reserve now for an unforgettable meal!

Dining at TOKI: Kyoto's Culinary Jewel

Planning to dine at TOKI? Discover insider tips, menu highlights, and what to expect from Kyoto's most anticipated restaurant. Don't miss out on your dining experience!

Top Tips for Dining at TOKI, Kyoto

Learn about TOKI, the Michelin-featured restaurant in Kyoto led by acclaimed Chef Tetsuya Asano. Discover its unique fusion of French and Japanese cuisine!

Experience Luxury Dining at Toki, Kyoto's Premier French-Japanese Restaurant

Dining & Culinary Delights

Signature Highlights

FAQs

Visit Toki Today