BIB GOURMAND
Kyoto, Japan
Discover Berangkat: Kyoto's Hidden Culinary Gem in Nakagyo Ward
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Berangkat is a tiny restaurant that packs a big culinary punch. Located at 334 御幸町通, Maruyachō, this intimate spot offers a remarkable fusion of Southeast Asian and Okinawan cuisines, creating an innovative dining experience that locals and travelers alike rave about. With seating for only seven guests around the bar plus a few at a cozy table, Berangkat promises an exclusive and personal atmosphere where every dish surprises and delights.
A Unique Taste Adventure
Berangkat’s menu is a journey through bold flavors and creative culinary techniques. The chef crafts each dish with care, blending traditional Japanese ingredients with exotic spices and styles from Southeast Asia and Okinawa. Diners often describe the food as "delicious and unique," highlighting the expertly paired wine and sake selections that elevate the experience. Notably, the menu is served exclusively in Japanese, adding to the authentic charm and encouraging guests to trust the chef’s choices for a surprising feast.
Why Berangkat Shines
This cozy restaurant’s appeal goes beyond its outstanding cuisine. Reviewers praise the warm and attentive staff, who speak excellent English and delight in customizing dishes, especially for those with dietary preferences like pescatarians. The intimate setting, combined with a welcoming vibe, makes every visit feel like a special occasion. Guests treasure the moments spent savoring sparkling nihon-shu sake like Kaze no Mori and waiting for the onigiri to be freshly made at the end of the meal.
- Cozy and intimate setting - Only 7 bar seats and a few tables create a personalized dining experience.
- Innovative fusion menu - A creative blend of Southeast Asian and Okinawan influences with authentic Japanese ingredients.
- Exceptional service - Friendly staff who are attentive and speak excellent English, enhancing the guest experience.
- Drink pairings - Carefully selected wines and sparkling nihon-shu like Kaze no Mori complement every dish perfectly.
Essential Tips for Visiting Berangkat
Berangkat operates with a few key policies that guests should know to enjoy their visit to the fullest. It is a cash-only venue, a common practice in many traditional Japanese eateries. Weekends see the restaurant closed, so plan your visit on a weekday to secure a seat. Reservations are not accepted, meaning seating is strictly first-come, first-served — so arriving early is wise. Though the menu is only in Japanese, this adds to the authentic adventure, inviting diners to trust the chef’s inspired selections. The dress code is casual, welcoming all who seek a relaxed yet memorable gastronomic experience.
- No weekend service - Berangkat is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Cash only - Credit cards are not accepted.
- No reservations - Seating is first-come, first-served only.
- Menu language - The menu is only available in Japanese.
- Casual dress code - No formal attire is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Berangkat open on weekends? No, Berangkat is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Do they accept credit cards? No, the restaurant is cash-only.
- Is there a dress code? No, the restaurant has a casual dress code.
- Can I make a reservation? Reservations are not available; seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Is the menu available in English? The menu is only available in Japanese.
Community sentiment
Positive
Berangkat enjoys a glowing reputation for its creative fusion dishes and intimate setting. Guests consistently highlight the delicious surprises in every dish, the friendly and accommodating staff, and the unmatched atmosphere of this small Kyoto jewel. Food lovers and travelers consider it a must-visit destination that perfectly captures the spirit of Japanese hospitality fused with adventurous flavors from Southeast Asia and Okinawa.
If you find yourself wandering through Nakagyo Ward, make sure to stop by Berangkat for a memorable evening of innovative cuisine in a warm, inviting environment. It's a true taste of Kyoto’s evolving food scene with a heartfelt nod to tradition.
Berangkat: Kyoto's innovative fusion culinary gem
Nestled in the heart of Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Berangkat offers an extraordinary dining experience where the rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asia meet the unique flavors of Okinawa. The name 'Berangkat,' meaning beginnings in Indonesian, perfectly captures the restaurant’s spirit of innovation and cultural fusion.
A chef’s journey inspires a cuisine revolution
Yoshioka Tetsuo, the visionary chef behind Berangkat, draws inspiration from his extensive travels across Southeast Asia and Okinawa. Incorporating locally sourced ingredients and traditional culinary techniques, he crafts inventive dishes that delight food enthusiasts and locals alike. The restaurant’s intimate setting—with seating for only seven around the bar plus a few table spots—ensures a personalized and immersive dining experience that highlights the chef’s creativity and dedication.
Recognition and acclaim
In 2024, Berangkat earned the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition, an accolade reserved for establishments delivering outstanding quality and exceptional value. This honor highlights the restaurant’s commitment to excellence and its growing status as a must-visit culinary destination in Kyoto.
Why Berangkat stands out
- Unique fusion cuisine: melding Southeast Asian and Okinawan flavors with Kyoto’s culinary artistry.
- Intimate setting: a cozy, limited seating arrangement that fosters a personal connection with the chef and his creations.
- Michelin Bib Gourmand accolade: affirming its reputation for superb quality and value.
- Culinary adventure: dishes that surprise and delight guests with flavors they've never experienced before.
Discovering Berangkat in Kyoto: A Culinary Gem with Unique Flavors and Intimate Charm
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward, Berangkat offers an exceptional dining experience that seamlessly blends the rich traditions of Southeast Asian and Okinawan cuisines. This restaurant has earned a special place among both locals and travelers seeking innovative and flavorful dishes that break the mold of conventional Japanese dining.
What Makes Berangkat Stand Out
From the moment you step inside Berangkat, the cozy and intimate atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable meal. The small space, fitting just around seven guests at the bar and a few more at a table, guarantees a personalized and attentive service that makes every diner feel truly valued. The staff's friendliness and excellent English proficiency enhance the welcoming vibe, ensuring smooth communication even for those new to the local culinary scene.
Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition further attests to Berangkat's commitment to quality and creativity, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts exploring Kyoto.
Signature Dining Experience
Berangkat’s menu features an imaginative fusion of flavors that often surprises and delights. Many diners trust the chefs to select dishes for them, allowing for an adventurous and authentic tasting journey. Fish lovers will find themselves particularly well catered for, as the kitchen crafts dishes that showcase fresh, thoughtfully prepared seafood in ways that highlight both Southeast Asian and Okinawan culinary influences. The experience culminates with the beloved onigiri, a satisfying final touch that guests look forward to.
- Unique fusion of Southeast Asian and Okinawan cuisines that excites the palate.
- Cozy and intimate atmosphere perfect for an engaging dining experience.
- Attentive and friendly service that makes every guest feel special.
- Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition confirming high-quality dining.
Considerations Before Visiting
While Berangkat offers an unforgettable culinary journey, there are some practical details visitors should be aware of to ensure a smooth experience. The restaurant operates on a cash-only basis, which is common in many Japanese establishments but could be inconvenient for travelers relying on cards. Additionally, the seating capacity is very limited, accommodating just a handful of guests, which means securing a spot can be challenging.
Reservations are not accepted, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is advisable to avoid disappointment. These factors contribute to the exclusivity and intimate charm but require some patience and planning from prospective diners.
- Cash-only payment policy requires preparation.
- No reservations accepted means early arrival is crucial.
- Limited seating capacity creates an intimate but competitive dining environment.
Final Thoughts for Travelers and Foodies
Berangkat is a standout destination in Kyoto for those eager to explore the dynamic intersection of Southeast Asian and Okinawan flavors in a setting that feels both exclusive and welcoming. Its innovative dishes, warm hospitality, and distinguished recognition make it a top choice for discerning food lovers. However, visitors should plan accordingly for its cash-only policy and limited seating to fully enjoy the unforgettable culinary adventure this gem offers.
Closing soon - Closing 11:00 PM
Monday
18:00–23:00
Tuesday
18:00–23:00
Wednesday
18:00–23:00
Thursday
18:00–23:00
Friday
18:00–23:00
Saturday
18:00–23:00
Sunday
Closed
Aggregated Ratings 4.5
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