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Kyoto

Kakou Okamoto is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Kyoto, renowned for its seasonal omakase courses and extensive sake selection. Guests appreciate the intimate counter seating, attentive service, and the chef's dedication to traditional Japanese cuisine. The mackerel sushi is particularly praised as a standout dish.

Discover Kakou Okamoto, Kyoto's Omakase Gem in Higashiyama Ward 

Nestled in the charming Tokiwachō neighborhood of Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward, Kakou Okamoto offers a culinary journey like no other. This intimate restaurant, seating only eight guests, is a haven for foodies and travelers seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience with a modern twist. Known for its omakase style dining, where the chef curates each dish with seasonal ingredients, Kakou Okamoto brings artistry and precision to every plate.

A Feast for the Senses: Omakase Excellence and Sake Pairings

At Kakou Okamoto, each course is crafted with meticulous care, showcasing Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage. From delicate sashimi sliced with the precision of a master chef to unique dishes like scallop and asparagus or pine nut-infused seaweed, the flavors are vibrant and unforgettable. Guests often highlight the expertly paired selection of over 60 types of sake, including rare varieties, which perfectly complements the meal and elevates the dining experience.

The intimate setting and attentive service

 make for a warm and welcoming atmosphere where guests feel like honored visitors rather than customers. Though the chef’s English is limited, the friendly interaction enhanced by translation apps creates a seamless and engaging experience for international visitors.

Planning Your Visit: What You Need to Know

What is the price range for the course menu?

 The course menu is priced at approximately ¥11,000, excluding tax.

 The restaurant offers over 60 types of sake, including rare brands.

 While there is no formal dress code, smart casual attire is recommended.

 Yes, they accept credit cards, including VISA and AMEX.

 The restaurant has counter seating and may not be suitable for wheelchair access.

Kakou Okamoto enjoys glowing reviews from both locals and visitors alike. The community consistently praises the authentic Japanese cuisine, the chef’s artistry, and the thoughtful sake selections. Many describe the experience as a once-in-a-lifetime culinary adventure that perfectly captures the essence of Kyoto’s food culture. The warm, intimate atmosphere combined with attentive service makes it a favored destination for those seeking an unforgettable dinner in a serene setting.

Outstanding omakase dining with seasonal ingredients

Chef’s skillful and artistic food preparation

Extensive and rare sake selection enhancing the dining experience

Warm, intimate atmosphere ideal for special occasions

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, **Kakou Okamoto** is a culinary gem that offers an intimate dining experience like no other. This Michelin-starred restaurant specializes in omakase, where the chef curates a delightful journey through seasonal ingredients, showcasing the best of Kyoto's culinary heritage. The ambiance is serene and minimalistic, allowing the artistry of the food to take center stage.

At Kakou Okamoto, each meal is a celebration of local flavors and seasonal produce. Two standout dishes that exemplify this philosophy are the **scallop and asparagus**, which is prepared to perfection, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Another must-try is the **sardine cooked in vinegar**, which undergoes a meticulous five-hour preparation, resulting in a dish that is both tangy and rich, garnished with bonito powder for an umami punch.

The experience at Kakou Okamoto is not just about the food; it’s about the artistry behind it. The chef, known for his exceptional skills, prepares each dish right in front of you, creating a captivating performance that adds to the overall dining experience. Guests often leave raving about the attention to detail and the harmonious balance of flavors that define each course.

 Kakou Okamoto is renowned for its exquisite omakase dining experience, where every dish is crafted using seasonal ingredients, highlighting the best of Kyoto's culinary traditions.

 This restaurant offers a unique and intimate atmosphere, perfect for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in a culinary journey crafted by a master chef.

 Kakou Okamoto is conveniently located near several cultural attractions, including the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the picturesque streets of Gion, making it an ideal stop for both dining and sightseeing.

Embark on a culinary adventure at Kakou Okamoto, where every meal is a work of art. Whether you're a local or a traveler, this restaurant promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Kyoto. Book your table today and indulge in a dining experience that you will cherish forever.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNUX0pXRzF3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJjZ7X_8sIAWAR6NMJLzDbW9s/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNUX0pXRzF3RRAB

It’s a pity I can’t give more than 5 stars. An amazing restaurant my wife and I found. It was a beautiful evening with some of the best food I’ve ever tasted. Along with an amazing selection of sakes. No menu, all made and selected by the chef who was super lovely. His English is not extensive, but that was fine, my Japanese is not extensive either! I was able to ask questions and make comments by using google translate. So yeah, highly recommended 10/10!!! 🏆

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNneUxEUi13RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJjZ7X_8sIAWAR6NMJLzDbW9s/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNneUxEUi13RRAB

When researching restaurants close to our accommodation I found Kako Okamoto omakase 'meals chosen by the chef' restaraunt as 400m away.

I phoned the restaurant and booked for 6pm dining not realising it was a 1 Michelin star rated restaurant. That was a pleasant surprise!

It is a small restaurant seating 8 people and everything cooked in front of you. Almost like a Teppanyaki experience without the throwing of items that Teppanyaki chefs do. The chef was a complete artist. He prepared and cooked everything with grace and skill.

The many dishes were all oishi - delicious. My favourite was the scallop and asparagus dish which was divine.  Amazing texture and flavours and perfectly cooked.

Next was a lovely seaweed, wasabi and pine nut dish which I want more of. Such a lovely combination of textures and flavours.

A fish course next which was very tasty, served in a lovely broth. A lovely combination.

The sashimi course was amazingly fresh and watching the chef slice the fish was like watching an Iron Chef episode. Everything done with precision and beauty and presented artistically. A feast for the senses.

Then there was a piece of sardine cooked in vinegar for five hours and coated in bonito powder. Absolutely divine!

More courses arrive, twelve in total including a sweet course including black bean inside a sweet bun. Again, my favourite new word - oishi - delixious!

Each course found me wanting more of each course, however I could eat no more. Perfectly satisfied and smiling as we made our way out having paid 12,000 yen per person and it was worth every yen. A once in a lifetime experience

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIOWItMkxREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJjZ7X_8sIAWAR6NMJLzDbW9s/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIOWItMkxREAE

Really loved the food and the experience. Felt really welcome and the food was excellent. Enjoyed the fact that local and seasonal ingredients were used. I recommend sake pairing!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6cDZIeld3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJjZ7X_8sIAWAR6NMJLzDbW9s/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6cDZIeld3EAE

Amazing experience. Pure gold on Kyoto style dishes I never knew existed.

Like many reviewers, pity I can't give more than 5 stars.

This is a restaurant that every dish is fantastic

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURkeHJxdnl3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJjZ7X_8sIAWAR6NMJLzDbW9s/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURkeHJxdnl3RRAB

Exceptional cooking skills from Daisho and an impressive range of nihonshu to match. Great atmosphere and pace throughout the course with Daisho showcasing his culinary skills and knowledge of ninhonshu.

Definitely worth a re-visit.

Kakou Okamoto: 1-Star Omakase Restaurant in Kyoto

Kakou Okamoto, located in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, is a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in traditional Japanese cuisine. Established in 2013, it has gained acclaim for its seasonal omakase courses and extensive sake selection.

Kakou Okamoto's journey: a celebrated gem in Kyoto's culinary scene.

Located in the historic Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto, Kakou Okamoto opened its doors in December 2013, quickly establishing itself as a sanctuary for lovers of authentic Japanese cuisine. From the very beginning, this intimate restaurant has been dedicated to showcasing exquisite seasonal dishes paired with a refined selection of sake, creating an immersive dining experience that appeals to both locals and discerning travelers.

Since its inception in 2013, Kakou Okamoto has been praised for its meticulous approach to traditional Kyoto-style cooking, featuring an omakase menu where the chef personally selects and prepares each course. The restaurant's cozy ambiance, seating only eight diners at a time, allows patrons to witness the artistry of Japanese culinary techniques first-hand, making it a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts eager to savor authentic seasonal flavors crafted with grace and precision.

Kakou Okamoto’s commitment to culinary excellence did not go unnoticed. In 2021, the restaurant earned The Tabelog Award Bronze, a testament to its outstanding reputation among Japan’s top dining establishments. That same year, it was honored by being selected for the prestigious Tabelog Japanese Cuisine WEST 'Hyakumeiten', highlighting it as one of the hundred distinguished restaurants in the western region of Japan.

The pinnacle of recognition came in 2024, when Kakou Okamoto was awarded one Michelin star. This accolade celebrates the restaurant's high-quality cooking and the chef's mastery in delivering refined Kyoto cuisine that resonates deeply with both locals and international gourmands alike.

Guests at Kakou Okamoto delight in a meticulously curated omakase menu that changes with the seasons, reflecting the freshest local ingredients of Kyoto. The chef’s skill shines through in every dish, from delicately sliced sashimi to uniquely prepared seafood courses that offer surprising and harmonious flavor combinations. The pairing of carefully selected nihonshu (Japanese sake) enhances the overall sensory journey, making each visit a unique and memorable culinary adventure.

 – seating for only eight guests encourages a personal and immersive experience.

 – expertly crafted seasonal courses designed by the chef to showcase Kyoto's finest ingredients.

 – a curated selection of nihonshu complements each dish to elevate the dining experience.

Restroom

Dine In

Reservations

In the heart of Kyoto’s enchanting Higashiyama Ward, a visit to Kakou Okamoto is a journey into Japan's culinary embrace, where tradition meets tantalizing creativity. This quaint restaurant invites diners to savor the refined art of Japanese cuisine, showcasing an array of kaiseki dishes that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful. Each plate is a masterpiece, carefully crafted to celebrate local produce, delicate flavors, and the changing seasons.

Kakou Okamoto

A seasonal omakase course featuring a variety of dishes paired with fine sake selections.

Mackerel Sushi

Spicy Pilchard Stew

Steamed Snow Crab

Grilled Conger Eel in Soup

Sashimi with Sea Urchin

Assorted Appetizers

Fried Tofu Pouch with Yuba

Steamed Spiny Lobster with Barley Risotto

Shark Fin Noodles

Strawberry Dessert

Yuzu-Flavored Omajyu

Omakase Course Menu

Kakou Okamoto: An Exquisite Kyoto Dining Experience on a Seasonal Course Menu.

Nestled in the heart of Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kakou Okamoto invites you to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through its meticulously crafted seasonal course menu. Renowned for its artistry and dedication to local ingredients, this intimate restaurant serves a variety of dishes that celebrate the essence of Kyoto’s vibrant gastronomic heritage, all thoughtfully paired with fine sake to elevate every bite.

Begin your meal with an array of expertly prepared starters that tease your palate with delicate flavors and textures. The Spicy Pilchard Stew blends succulent pilchard with fragrant bonito flakes and carefully balanced spices, delivering a lively and warming introduction. Savor the Assorted Appetizers featuring seasonal ingredients transformed through various preparations, showcasing the chef’s creativity and respect for nature’s bounty. For a unique taste, try the Fried Tofu Pouch with Yuba, where silky tofu skin envelopes savory fillings, seasoned to perfection.

The main courses at Kakou Okamoto are a celebration of exquisite seafood and traditional Japanese preparations. Delight in the Mackerel Sushi, where perfectly vinegared rice complements rich, fresh mackerel. The Steamed Snow Crab offers a delicate sweetness enhanced with subtle seasonings that highlight the freshness of the crustacean. Experience the Grilled Conger Eel in Soup, a harmonious dish where tender eel meets a flavorful broth. The Sashimi with Sea Urchin presents an artistic platter of assorted sashimi crowned with creamy sea urchin, a true feast for the senses. For a luxurious touch, taste the Steamed Spiny Lobster accompanied by a creamy barley risotto, blending the ocean’s bounty with comforting grains. Lastly, the Shark Fin Noodles offer a unique texture and depth, simmered in a rich soup stock that warms the soul.

Conclude your meal with a seasonal dessert that captures the natural sweetness of fresh fruits, enhanced by delicate sweeteners for a light and satisfying finish to this masterful course.

Complement your dining experience with an impressive selection of nihonshu (Japanese sake), meticulously chosen to harmonize with each course. The chef’s deep knowledge of sake pairing enhances every flavor, offering both novices and connoisseurs a refined beverage journey.

 - At Kakou Okamoto, the chef personally selects and prepares every course, ensuring a dynamic menu that reflects the freshest seasonal ingredients and Kyoto’s culinary traditions. This personalized dining experience showcases artistry, skill, and an intimate connection with the ingredients.

Savor exquisite Japanese cuisine at Kakou Okamoto in Kyoto! Experience authentic flavors and warm hospitality. Discover your culinary adventure today!

Kakou Okamoto: Exquisite Kyoto Dining Experience

Kyoto Municipality

A seasonal course menu featuring a variety of dishes paired with fine sake selections.

Omakase Course

A selection of over 60 types of sake available to complement your meal.

Sake Pairing

Experience Kyoto's Culinary Artistry at Kakou Okamoto Restaurant in Higashiyama Ward Japan 

Nestled in the charming Tokiwachō neighborhood of Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, Kakou Okamoto stands out as a culinary gem for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience. This intimate restaurant offers seating for just eight guests at a sleek counter, allowing diners to watch the chef's masterful creations come to life in front of them. With no fixed menu, the chef crafts a unique omakase-style meal showcasing seasonal and local ingredients, presenting a dozen courses that captivate all senses.

Exquisite Kyoto Style Cuisine Crafted by a Skilled Chef 

At Kakou Okamoto, each dish is a testament to the chef's artistry and dedication. Guests have raved about delicacies such as the perfectly cooked scallop and asparagus, a delicate seaweed, wasabi, and pine nut dish, and impeccably sliced sashimi that rivals scenes from culinary shows. Signature highlights include a five-hour vinegar-cooked sardine coated in bonito powder, delivering bold umami flavors that linger delightfully. This 1 Michelin-starred establishment offers refined Kyoto-style dishes that many visitors describe as a once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic journey.

Exceptional Sake Pairing Selection to Elevate Your Meal 

Complementing the culinary adventure is an impressive sake pairing experience featuring over 60 varieties, including rare and exclusive brands. Guests praise the knowledgeable sommelier’s ability to match each course with the perfect nihonshu, enhancing the flavors and creating a harmonious dining rhythm. Whether you are a sake aficionado or a curious newcomer, the sake selection at Kakou Okamoto is sure to enrich your meal with authentic Japanese beverage culture.

What to Expect When Dining at Kakou Okamoto 

Intimate counter seating for up to 8 guests

 that fosters connection between diners and the chef’s culinary craft.

 with no fixed menu, tailored by the chef’s seasonal inspirations.

 featuring over 60 types including rare finds to perfectly complement your meal.

Located in the heart of Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward

 at 470-4 Tokiwachō, making it an ideal stop for cultural explorers and culinary adventurers.

Whether you are a foodie searching for the best restaurants in Kyoto or a traveler eager to experience authentic Japanese gastronomy, Kakou Okamoto offers an unforgettable dining experience. Reservations are essential due to the limited seating and high demand. While the restaurant does not offer takeout or delivery, the dine-in experience is enhanced by attentive service, a welcoming atmosphere, and the chef's personal touch. Prepare to be delighted by flavors and craftsmanship that embody the essence of Kyoto cuisine.

 ensuring a calm and focused dining atmosphere.

Experience exquisite Japanese cuisine at Kakou Okamoto in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward. Seasonal omakase and extensive sake collection await you.

Kyoto Higashiyama Michelin 1-Star Restaurant Kakou Okamoto

Indulge in Kyoto's Kakou Okamoto, renowned for seasonal omakase courses, traditional Japanese dishes, and a vast sake selection in an intimate setting.

Discover Kyoto's Kakou Okamoto - Seasonal Omikase & Sake

Visit Kakou Okamoto in Higashiyama for an authentic Kyoto culinary journey, featuring seasonal ingredients, chef's specialties, and traditional Japanese ambiance.

Kakou Okamoto: An Exquisite Kyoto Dining Experience on a Seasonal Course Menu.

Starters

Mains

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Chef’s Specials

Yukou

Gion Sasaki

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