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Kyoto

Gion Tanto is a traditional Japanese restaurant in Kyoto's Gion district, renowned for its Okonomiyaki and other teppanyaki-style dishes. While many patrons praise the authentic experience and delicious food, some note long wait times and higher prices compared to other local eateries. The restaurant offers both meat and vegan options, catering to a diverse clientele.

Nestled in the historic streets of Kyoto's charming Gion district, 

 invites you to savor authentic Japanese okonomiyaki and teppanyaki dishes in a cozy, traditional setting. This beloved spot offers a genuine taste of Kyoto’s culinary heritage, complete with tatami mat seating and hot plate dining that immerses visitors in a unique cultural experience.

, a savory Japanese pancake layered with fresh cabbage, noodles, eggs, and a variety of meats or vegetables. Whether you're craving the classic version or vegan and gluten-free alternatives, the menu caters to diverse tastes with honest prices and speedy service. Diners appreciate the warm atmosphere where each table features a heated surface to cook and enjoy their meal together, fostering a sense of community and culinary adventure.

Gion Tanto’s intimate dining area accommodates about 15 guests, making it essential to arrive early or prepare for a wait during peak hours. You’ll be asked to remove your shoes and store them in the clever wooden locker system, a charming ritual that adds to the authentic experience. Despite the wait times that can stretch up to two hours, visitors often say the unique setting and comforting flavors make the visit worthwhile.

 – Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

 – A full vegan menu with traditional favorites like yakisoba and teppanyaki.

 – Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC payments, unlike many traditional eateries.

What are the operating hours of Gion Tanto?

 Gion Tanto operates Monday to Tuesday and Friday to Sunday with varying hours. Checking their official website before visiting is recommended.

Is there a wait time to dine at Gion Tanto?

 Yes, wait times can range from 30 minutes to over an hour during busy periods due to limited seating.

 No, seating is strictly first-come, first-served.

 Yes, they offer a full vegan menu including okonomiyaki, yakisoba, yakiudon, and teppanyaki.

 Guests sit on tatami mats around a hot plate, enjoying a cozy and authentic meal experience.

The community sentiment around Gion Tanto is mixed but generally positive. Many visitors rave about the warm, authentic atmosphere and the delicious okonomiyaki, praising the restaurant as a highlight of their Kyoto culinary adventures. However, some diners mention that the long wait times and limited seating can be challenging, especially during busy evenings. Despite these drawbacks, the accessible vegan options and fair pricing often sway opinions favorably, making Gion Tanto a memorable stop for food lovers exploring the Gion district.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's historic Higashiyama Ward, Gion Tanto is a culinary gem that invites you to experience the rich flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine. This charming restaurant, located at 372 Kiyomotochō, is renowned for its **Okonomiyaki**, a savory pancake that embodies the essence of Japanese comfort food. With its vibrant atmosphere and authentic decor, Gion Tanto offers a unique dining experience that transports you to the heart of Japan's culinary heritage.

At Gion Tanto, the **Okonomiyaki** is not just a dish; it's an experience. Made with a medley of fresh ingredients including cabbage, udon noodles, and a choice of meats or vegetables, each pancake is grilled to perfection right at your table. The sizzling sound and tantalizing aroma create an unforgettable atmosphere. Another must-try is the **Capis drink**, a refreshing white beverage that perfectly complements the savory flavors of the food. Guests rave about its unique taste, making it a popular choice among both locals and tourists.

One of the standout features of Gion Tanto is its traditional tatami seating, which adds an authentic touch to your dining experience. As you enter, you'll notice the quirky shoe lockers where guests stow their footwear before stepping onto the tatami mats. This unique aspect not only enhances the ambiance but also immerses you in Japanese culture. A fun fact: the restaurant is known for its long lines, often stretching out the door, which is a testament to its popularity. It's recommended to arrive early to avoid the wait, especially during peak dining hours.

Gion Tanto is famous for its delicious Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake that is made fresh at your table, offering a unique and interactive dining experience.

Visiting Gion Tanto offers a chance to savor authentic Japanese cuisine in a culturally immersive setting, complete with traditional tatami seating and a lively atmosphere.

Gion Tanto typically opens for lunch and dinner, but it's advisable to check their hours in advance as they can vary.

Gion Tanto is waiting to welcome you with open arms and delicious flavors. Whether you're a local or a traveler, this restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience that captures the spirit of Kyoto. Don't miss out on the chance to indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine—plan your visit today!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2dU5Ed2tBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ8dlnc-oIAWARMw3PidOJz1w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2dU5Ed2tBRRAB

This place has many recommendations. found it via google. there was a massive line. all tourists, no locals. everyone in the line was in line due to online reviews. while in line, a tourist couple saw the line and asked me if they are good. i said i have no idea and am just in line cos of online recommendations. they laughed good-naturedly. all in all, i stood in the cold for close to 1.5 hours for average food.... it was not bad and well priced, just not worth the 5 star reviews and long line.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3eU1Hd0R3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ8dlnc-oIAWARMw3PidOJz1w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3eU1Hd0R3EAE

We did eat at this restaurant on July 2024 to taste the traditional Okonomiyaki (a sort of traditional pizza/pancake with many ingredients both outside and inside - cabbage, udon, eggs, meats etc). It was super tasty and the service fast despite it was totally full. Prices are honest and you can easily pay with your credit card (which is a plus as many typical restaurant like this does not accept it).

I would suggest to plan your visit here before 6PM otherwise you will do a long line with an average waiting time of 1hour - there are only 15seats inside and due to its popularity tends to be very crowded.

Please also note you need to take off your shoes to get access here.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuX2FPSGx3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ8dlnc-oIAWARMw3PidOJz1w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuX2FPSGx3RRAB

ALERT!! On Wait time.

It’s anywhere between an hour to two hours and for most part you don’t even have a chair to sit on. It’s like Alice’s rabbit hole. Once you start waiting, you are stuck! You keep hoping the queue will reduce but it just doesn’t ….people who go in never come out.

Then you enter with all the excitement!!

On entering the venue after an hour of standing, we realised that you need to wait again, this time while sitting! The staff gives you no information on how much longer it will take, no board on wait time.

Inside sitting!!

After you enter, it’s a totally different feeling. You forget all that waiting and tiredness !!

They have 4 tables that can seat groups of 4 and 8 individual seats.

Regarding advance reservations: They don’t take reservations. This was our worst experience in terms of service management.

After trying out all vegan ramen across Tokyo and Kyoto , this is a totally new take on their cuisine! Okonomiyaki !! Yes and they have vegan and gluten free option.

We loved the mochi and corn version. It was lip smacking.

Don’t miss CAPIS drink, the white one! It’s so good.

While I feel it’s a great way to end your trip to Japan especially with food by making this as your last restaurant for its unique experience, wait time is a bummer.

You will be required to take off your shoes and they have storage locker to keep them while you eat 🤤

PS: We travelled as family. While my daughter kept herself busy walking and running around, we both were struggling to stand in the same spot for a long time.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYb2FELWtRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ8dlnc-oIAWARMw3PidOJz1w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYb2FELWtRRRAB

Our least favourite meal in Japan. The Okonomiyaki really didn’t have a lot of flavour. The diced steak portion was tiny. Had  two orders of the chicken which were tasty and a decent portion. Took about an hour to get seated; arrived before 6. The tatami mats and the hot table are a fun experience, but there is a feeling of pressure to eat and move on so they can pull in the next set of people. We didn’t think it met the hype for food and would not line up for it again.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmdS11dWpnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ8dlnc-oIAWARMw3PidOJz1w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmdS11dWpnRRAB

This was a nice little okonimiyaki restaurant in Gion district. They have funky shoe lockers with wooden cards where you stow away your shoes when you enter.  There is a small waiting area where you have menus and order items while waiting and it is brought very quickly to your heated table top when you are seated. Waiting time was around 30-40mins as it is a smallish restaurant. Plus points for having vegan options. The noodles were excellent as was the edamame. Enjoyable experience sitting on tatami mats.

Gion Tanto: Kyoto's Premier Okonomiyaki Restaurant

Gion Tanto is a traditional Japanese restaurant located in Kyoto's historic Gion district, known for its authentic teppanyaki-style dishes and traditional dining experience.

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Good for Groups

Serves Vegetarian Food

Gion Tanto is a charming restaurant nestled in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, offering delightful traditional Japanese cuisine, including kaiseki and okonomiyaki, in a cozy atmosphere that reflects the city's rich heritage.

Gion Tanto

Authentic Japanese cuisine specializing in Okonomiyaki, Yakisoba, Yakiudon, and Teppanyaki, with vegan options available.

Okonomiyaki

Yakisoba

Yakiudon

Teppanyaki

Negiyaki

Vegan Okonomiyaki

Vegan Yakisoba

Vegan Yakiudon

Vegan Teppanyaki

Vegan Negiyaki

Fried Rice

Side Salad

Gion Tanto Menu

Nestled in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, Gion Tanto offers an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine with a focus on comforting and traditional dishes like Okonomiyaki, Yakisoba, and Teppanyaki. This quaint eatery, located at 372 Kiyomotochō, is famed for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, perfectly blending classic techniques with a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are a foodie, a digital nomad exploring Kyoto, or a trend-conscious traveler, this menu promises a delightful culinary journey.

Begin your meal with the refreshing Side Salad featuring crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a hint of garlic that perfectly awakens the palate. This light starter is an excellent complement to the rich and hearty mains that follow.

Gion Tanto excels in its diverse range of mains, with a particular highlight on Okonomiyaki — a savory Japanese pancake made with cabbage, batter, and your choice of meat or seafood. For noodle lovers, the Yakisoba offers stir-fried noodles tossed with fresh vegetables and meat or seafood options. Alternatively, try the Yakiudon, featuring thick udon noodles stir-fried with a medley of vegetables and proteins.

For those seeking grilled flavors, Teppanyaki presents perfectly grilled meat or seafood paired with fresh vegetables, delivering a satisfying and flavorful experience. The Negiyaki, a green onion-based savory pancake, offers yet another delicious variation on the traditional Okonomiyaki.

Vegan diners are warmly welcomed with dedicated options including Vegan Okonomiyaki, Vegan Yakisoba, Vegan Yakiudon, Vegan Teppanyaki, and Vegan Negiyaki, all crafted with plant-based ingredients and vegan meat alternatives, ensuring a delightful and inclusive dining experience.

Additionally, a beloved staple on the menu is the Fried Rice, made with fragrant rice, fresh vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood, offering a comforting and satisfying option for any appetite.

While Gion Tanto’s menu primarily celebrates savory delights, it also offers select desserts and a curated selection of beverages including beer and wine to perfectly accompany your meal. These options round out the dining experience with a balance of refreshing and indulgent endings.

 offers a traditional Japanese dining atmosphere that enhances the culinary experience.

 cater to diverse dietary preferences, making it inclusive for all guests.

 ensures quick serving times despite the cozy and intimate setting with limited seating.

Savor authentic Japanese cuisine at Gion Tanto in Kyoto's historic Higashiyama. Indulge in a culinary journey today!

Gion Tanto: Authentic Kyoto Dining in Higashiyama

Kyoto Municipality

Offers a full vegan menu with traditional Japanese offerings like okonomiyaki, yakisoba, yakiudon, and teppanyaki.

Vegan Options

Experience authentic Japanese dining by sitting on tatami mats around a hot plate.

Traditional Seating

Gion Tanto: Authentic Kyoto Okonomiyaki Experience in Higashiyama Ward Japan 

Nestled in the historic streets of Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, Gion Tanto is a charming restaurant that invites you to dive into the heart of traditional Japanese cuisine. This small but beloved establishment is famed for its 

, a savory Japanese pancake that balances a medley of fresh ingredients cooked right at your table. Perfect for foodies and travelers craving an authentic dining experience in Kyoto.

Step inside Gion Tanto and you’ll be asked to remove your shoes and store them in quirky wooden lockers before settling down on soft tatami mats around a sizzling hot plate. This style of seating offers an intimate and immersive dining atmosphere, where you can watch your meal come to life while enjoying the warmth of traditional Japanese hospitality.

Delicious offerings including vegan specialties

Gion Tanto's menu is a celebration of classic Japanese flavors with a modern twist. Beyond the iconic okonomiyaki, you can savor mouthwatering yakisoba and yakiudon noodles or enjoy teppanyaki dishes, all expertly prepared. Notably, the restaurant offers a full vegan menu, catering thoughtfully to plant-based diners without compromising on authentic taste.

 featuring traditional dishes like okonomiyaki, yakisoba, yakiudon, and teppanyaki made entirely plant-based.

 that lets you enjoy a warm communal meal in a cozy, authentic setting.

Due to its popularity, expect a wait time that can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, especially during peak evenings. The intimate space accommodates only about 15 guests, so arriving before 6PM can help you avoid long lines. While waiting, you can browse the menu and place orders early to speed up your dining experience once seated.

 are accepted so plan accordingly for wait times.

 include credit, debit, and NFC payments – no cash only.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler, a foodie exploring Japan’s culinary gems, or a digital nomad seeking an authentic local experience, Gion Tanto offers a unique window into Kyoto's beloved street food culture. Its blend of traditional seating, carefully crafted dishes, and inclusive vegan options make it stand out in the vibrant Gion district.

 at Gion Tanto and savor the tastes of Kyoto that linger long after your meal.

Gion Tanto: Authentic Okonomiyaki Experience in Kyoto

Nestled in the historic streets of Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward, Gion Tanto offers visitors a unique opportunity to savor traditional Japanese okonomiyaki in a distinctively local setting. This intimate restaurant is well-known for its authentic cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere that truly reflects Japanese dining culture.

Gion Tanto is celebrated for its delicious okonomiyaki—a savory Japanese pancake filled with ingredients like cabbage, udon noodles, eggs, and various meats. Guests frequently praise the restaurant’s vegan-friendly options, making it an inclusive spot for diverse dietary preferences. The traditional ambiance, featuring tatami mat seating and a custom of removing shoes before entering, enriches the cultural dining experience. Additionally, the staff's friendliness and attentiveness contribute to a welcoming environment that resonates with both tourists and locals alike.

However, potential visitors should be aware of some challenges associated with dining at Gion Tanto. The restaurant has limited seating—only about 15 seats—which often leads to long wait times that can stretch from one to two hours, especially during peak times. This can be uncomfortable since there is limited seating while waiting, and the staff do not provide wait time estimates or take reservations, which may cause frustration. Furthermore, the intimate setting means diners sometimes feel rushed to finish and vacate their seats for the next guests. It's also important to note that while credit card payments are accepted, some reviews mention cash-only policies that could affect payment options.

 to avoid the longest lines, ideally before 6 PM when the restaurant opens.

 and standing, as seating is limited and waiting areas can be cramped.

 by removing your shoes and enjoying the tatami mat seating for an authentic experience.

 such as the mochi and corn okonomiyaki and don’t miss the special CAPIS drink for a memorable taste.

 Gion Tanto offers a genuine slice of Kyoto's culinary tradition with its flavorful okonomiyaki and inviting ambiance. While the long wait times and limited space may test your patience, the rewarding flavors and cultural immersion make it a worthwhile stop for those eager to experience authentic Japanese dining in a charming setting.

Discover Gion Tanto, Kyoto’s must-visit spot for delicious Okonomiyaki! Enjoy traditional dining with vegan options in the heart of Gion. Order now!

Authentic Okonomiyaki at Gion Tanto, Kyoto

Planning to visit Gion Tanto? Get insider tips for dining at this popular Kyoto restaurant, from menu highlights to avoiding long waits!

Explore Gion Tanto: Tips for Your Visit

Learn about Gion Tanto, an authentic restaurant in Kyoto’s Gion district, famous for its Okonomiyaki and rich cultural dining experience.

Gion Tanto: Kyoto's Premier Okonomiyaki Restaurant

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