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Kyoto

Diners frequently commend Chef Makoto Fujiwara's innovative approach to Japanese cuisine, blending traditional techniques with modern influences. The intimate setting and personalized service enhance the overall dining experience, making it a memorable occasion for many.

Ryosho: Kyoto's Intimate Michelin-Starred Culinary Jewel in Gionmachi Minamigawa District Japan 

Nestled in the historic heart of Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward, Ryosho offers an exclusive and unforgettable dining experience with only eight seats at the counter. This intimate setting allows guests to engage directly with Chef Makoto Fujiwara, whose artistry shines through every meticulously crafted course.

An exceptional Michelin two-starred journey of seasonal Japanese flavors

At Ryosho, culinary excellence is not just a goal but a daily practice. Chef Fujiwara's innovative approach respects traditional Kaiseki principles while incorporating modern nuances, showcasing seasonal ingredients with delicate balance and precision. Signature dishes like the perfectly cooked duck loin with fig and sesame cream sauce and the sublime eel with rice and yuba miso soup demonstrate the chef's mastery and passion.

Every dish tells a story, with no unnecessary embellishments, focusing purely on authentic taste and harmonious flavors.

Guests frequently praise the warm and attentive service, with Chef Fujiwara himself engaging with diners, creating a welcoming and personable atmosphere. The cozy venue encourages interaction not only with the chef but also among guests, reminiscent of traditional Japanese dining bars seen in films. The elegant ambiance blends simplicity and refinement, making each visit a memorable occasion.

Meticulously selected and highlighted in each course to capture the essence of Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

Only eight seats at the counter ensure personalized attention and an immersive culinary journey.

Chef and staff provide warm hospitality, making guests feel valued and at ease from start to finish.

Awarded two Michelin stars, confirming Ryosho’s status as a top destination for discerning food lovers.

570-166 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan 605-0074.

Lunch served weekends and holidays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; dinner daily from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Essential due to limited seating; plan ahead to ensure your place at the counter.

Smart casual attire is required; beach sandals, athletic wear, and shorts are not permitted.

Children aged 13 and older are welcome if they can enjoy the adult course.

No on-site parking; use nearby metered parking lots.

Smart casual attire is required. Beach sandals, athletic wear, and short pants are not permitted.

Children aged 13 and above are welcome if they can enjoy the adult's course.

What are the operating hours of Ryō-shō? 

Lunch is served on weekends and holidays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Dinner is available daily from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The restaurant does not offer parking; guests are advised to use nearby metered parking lots.

What payment methods are accepted at Ryō-shō? 

Cash and major credit cards are accepted.

Community sentiment and dining experience highlights

Ryosho enjoys overwhelmingly positive reviews from discerning diners worldwide. Visitors consistently highlight the exceptional culinary creativity, warm hospitality, and elegant yet cozy ambiance. The chef’s respectful and attentive approach to guests, especially Western diners, sets Ryosho apart, making every meal a cherished memory. Many patrons regard dining here as the pinnacle of their Japanese culinary adventure, praising the flawless balance of flavor, texture, and presentation in every course.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Gionmachi Minamigawa, Ryosho is a culinary gem that offers an intimate dining experience, accommodating just eight guests at a time. This cozy restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a journey through the art of kaiseki, where each dish tells a story of seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. The warm ambiance, coupled with the attentive service from Chef Makoto Fujiwara and his team, creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit memorable.

At Ryosho, the tasting menu is a symphony of flavors, showcasing the best of Kyoto's seasonal produce. Two standout dishes include the duck loin with fig and sesame cream sauce, where the tender duck is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of figs and the nutty essence of sesame. Another highlight is the eel and rice with yuba miso soup, a dish that transcends expectations with its rich umami and delicate textures. Each course is thoughtfully crafted, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of culinary artistry.

Ryosho is renowned for its exquisite kaiseki dining experience, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation.

The restaurant offers a unique, intimate setting with personalized service and a menu that reflects the best of Kyoto's culinary traditions.

Ryosho is conveniently located near iconic attractions such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the historic streets of Gion, making it an ideal stop for food lovers exploring Kyoto.

Ryosho is not just about food; it’s an experience that immerses you in the rich culinary traditions of Japan. The chef’s dedication to showcasing seasonal ingredients is evident in every dish, and the intimate setting allows for a personal connection with the culinary artistry on display. A fun fact: Chef Makoto Fujiwara often shares stories behind each dish, enhancing the dining experience with insights into Japanese culture and cuisine.

If you’re seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Kyoto, look no further than Ryosho. With its exquisite kaiseki menu, intimate atmosphere, and exceptional service, it promises a meal that you will cherish long after you leave. Reserve your spot today and immerse yourself in the flavors of Japan.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2OGUzWHNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJK0mhhVwJAWARHe1hWlwF-k4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2OGUzWHNnRRAB

This is a small cosy restaurant with maximum 8 pax per sitting at counter. The atmosphere is warm as was the service. The chef owner was attentive and warm along with other staff.
The food was the highlight with emphasis on showcasing the available seasonal ingredients, without overpowering them in the cooking.
The whole dinner that my wife and I had on 21 December 24 was just excellent. The chef even came to wave us off when we boarded the taxi back to hotel.
Thanks to the team at restaurant Ryosho once again.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNscmRLYm5BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJK0mhhVwJAWARHe1hWlwF-k4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNscmRLYm5BRRAB

The best meal I had in Japan during my entire trip.

Each course was delicious but each told a different “story.” Also incredible attention to detail and each ingredient contributed to the holistic flavor of each dish. No useless fluff at all here for the sake of visuals only unlike some other kaiseki restaurants. Ryosho is totally deserving of its 2 Michelin stars.

The chef is not only very talented and creative but also kind and attentive to all the guests. I don’t think I ever had a meal from a chef in Japan who was as considerate and kind towards Westerners. Overall it was a 10/10 experience and I will come here again!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMxdG9LNTh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJK0mhhVwJAWARHe1hWlwF-k4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMxdG9LNTh3RRAB

Ryosho was a fantastic experience. I had already booked a 3 Michelin Star restaurant with the intent of celebrating my birthday but the only day it was available was two days before the birthday so when I saw that Ryosho was available for my actual birthday I booked it.

And I am so happy that I did. It has "only" Two Michelin Stars but in comparison with the other one I went to, for the food alone Ryosho deserves its third star.

The service is impecable. The "waiter" is always aware of your needs but without being heavy on your case. You sit at the bar like the traditional Japanese restaurants that we see in the movies and interact directly with the Chefs and the other guests.

The atmosphere is perfect as there were only seven guests in total, so we felt like at a Chefs table listening to the explanation of the chef as well as thing is expertise in dealing with the different dishes. Japanese chefs are experts in handling fish and Chef Makoto Fujiwara is a master at it, showing an amazing dexterity and respect for the product.

The tasting menu is sublime and very well constructed with each and every dish being a step up in flavour from the previous one.

Several dishes were definite showstoppers, the duck loin with fig and sesame cream sauce. Duck cooked to perfection and paired exquisitely with the sweetness of the fig and the twang of the sesame cream.

Tilefish on charcoal was a joy to savour with a surprising texture and marrying perfectly with the lime and ginkgo.

The sea bream and the bonito sashimis were outstanding, soft, tender and perfect in mouth.

The white miso, turnip and yuzu was simply wow... How such a simple dish is so amazingly good.

The star of the show was undoubtely the Eel and rice and yuba miso soup. The eel was the most perfectly tasty eel I have had the pleasure to eat and despite me being quite full at this stage I would happily eat more and more and more of this sublime dish.

The only issue that I might point out to this menu was the dessert. From my understanding of Japanese culture and being here these three weeks on holiday, sweets are not really part of the culture and so desserts in restaurants are not really included. And the ones in Fine Dining restaurants are simply an after thought. In here the same, was ok, but lacked the creativity and thought process used in all the savoury dishes. It is the only part of the menu where the influence of a European Pastry Chef would come in handy.

But, this doesn't detract from the overall experience and Ryosho was a complete joy to experience. Many thanks to Chef Makoto Fujiwara and his team for making my 50th Birthday meal one of the best I experienced in my life!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNsOXFhYTF3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJK0mhhVwJAWARHe1hWlwF-k4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNsOXFhYTF3RRAB

Hands down our best meal in Kyoto. Every single dish was flavorful and creative. The service was truly exceptional. The chef was so friendly and kind. He interacted with us a lot and was keenly interested in how we were enjoying our food. Overall, a beautiful experience that I highly recommend.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqME1xeGxBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJK0mhhVwJAWARHe1hWlwF-k4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqME1xeGxBRRAB

I couldn’t imagine eating anything more delicious on my trip to Japan. Chef Makoto Fujiwara is so creative, detail oriented, and full of joy — you can taste it in everything he prepares. I couldn’t pick my favorite course, but some of my favorites were the ise ebi with peas puree, white asparagus, caviar, and Perilla flower, the tuna sashimi, and the wagyu tenderloin cutlet. The perfect dinner.

Savor Exquisite Kaiseki at Ryosho, Kyoto's 2-Star Gem

Opened in January 2022, Ryō-shō quickly earned its second Michelin star within a year, reflecting its exceptional culinary offerings.

Ryosho: A Modern Culinary Gem in Kyoto's Historic Gionmachi Minamigawa District 

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's picturesque Higashiyama Ward, Ryosho has swiftly become a beacon of exceptional Japanese cuisine since its opening in January 2022. This intimate restaurant, located at 570-166 Gionmachi Minamigawa, offers an exclusive dining experience that captivates food enthusiasts and travelers alike.

From its inaugural opening in early 2022, Ryosho quickly distinguished itself in Kyoto's competitive culinary scene. By 2023, less than two years after welcoming its first guests, the restaurant earned the prestigious honor of two Michelin stars. This rapid recognition underscores the establishment’s commitment to showcasing seasonal ingredients with finesse and authenticity, crafting dishes that tell unique stories through flavor.

Ryosho's cozy setting, with seating limited to a maximum of eight guests at the counter, fosters a warm and personal atmosphere. Diners enjoy direct interaction with Chef Makoto Fujiwara and his attentive staff, enhancing the culinary journey with expert insights and genuine hospitality. This setting reflects the traditional Japanese chef’s table experience, offering a perfect blend of intimacy and culinary artistry.

What sets Ryosho apart is its dedication to enhancing the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients without overwhelming them. The chef’s dexterity with fish, paired with creative and harmonious pairings like duck loin with fig and sesame cream sauce, tilefish prepared over charcoal, and exquisitely tender sashimis, epitomize the restaurant's refined approach. Each dish elevates the dining experience, inviting guests into a thoughtfully curated gastronomic narrative.

 reflecting exceptional quality and creativity.

For discerning travelers, food lovers, and those seeking an authentic taste of Kyoto’s culinary excellence, Ryosho offers an unforgettable experience. The harmony of expertly crafted dishes, intimate ambiance, and heartfelt service by Chef Fujiwara and his team ensures every meal is not just dining, but a cherished memory. Discover the artistry and dedication that have quickly made Ryosho a celebrated destination in Japan’s gastronomic landscape.

Ryosho’s rapid rise and stellar reputation underscore its place as one of Kyoto’s culinary jewels, blending traditional techniques with creative innovation to delight every palate.

Dine In

Restroom

Reservable

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Ryosho is a hidden gem in Kyoto's Gionmachi Minamigawa, offering a delightful culinary experience with seasonal dishes that honor the rich cultural heritage of Japan. The restaurant features an intimate setting with traditional Japanese aesthetics, where each meal tells a story through its flavors and presentation.

Ryosho

Experience a harmonious blend of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine with our meticulously crafted courses, highlighting the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Omakase Course

Special Seasonal Menu

Limited-time Pairing Menu

Our Menu

Our menu at Ryosho restaurant Kyoto Japan luxury dining experience 

At Ryosho, located in the heart of Kyoto's historic Higashiyama Ward, diners embark on a culinary journey that masterfully balances tradition and innovation. The menu is a celebration of Japan's seasonal bounty, focusing on pristine seafood and vibrant vegetables, artfully prepared to highlight their natural flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Begin your dining experience with delicately crafted appetizers that showcase seasonal seafood and the freshest vegetables. Each starter is designed to awaken the senses and set the tone for the courses to come.

The centerpiece of Ryosho's offerings is the renowned Omakase Course — a meticulously curated selection of seasonal seafood and vegetables that narrate the story of the current season. For a truly exclusive experience, try the Special Seasonal Menu featuring prized ingredients such as fragrant matsutake mushrooms, succulent crab, and delicate fugu, expertly prepared to highlight their unique flavors.

For connoisseurs seeking a perfect balance of food and drink, the Limited-time Pairing Menu offers an exquisite selection of seasonal delicacies paired thoughtfully with premium wines and traditional sake, creating harmonious flavor combinations that elevate every bite.

In keeping with the Japanese culinary philosophy, desserts at Ryosho are crafted with subtlety, allowing the natural sweetness of seasonal fruits and delicate textures to provide a refined conclusion to the meal.

Complement your dining with a carefully selected beverage list featuring premium sake to enhance traditional flavors and a curated wine selection perfect for pairing with the seasonal menu offerings. While cocktails and coffee are not served, the available drinks expertly complement the food, creating a balanced and memorable dining experience.

 A chef’s selection emphasizing the best seasonal seafood and vegetables, designed to provide a dynamic and fresh culinary narrative.

 Featuring luxurious ingredients such as matsutake mushrooms, crab, and fugu that celebrate the season’s peak offerings.

 An exclusive experience where exceptional seasonal dishes are paired with exquisite wines and sake for a perfect harmony of flavors.

Savor delicious Japanese cuisine at Ryosho in Kyoto's historic Gion district. Experience exquisite flavors and vibrant culture—book your table now!

Dine in Kyoto's Gion: Ryosho's Authentic Cuisine

Kyoto Municipality

A selection of wines curated to complement each course of the meal.

Wine Pairing

A selection of rare sakes from Kyoto and other renowned breweries.

Sake Pairing

Ryosho: Intimate Michelin-Starred Dining in Kyoto's Historic Gion District 

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's iconic Gionmachi Minamigawa neighborhood, Ryosho offers a uniquely intimate dining experience that showcases the best of Japanese kaiseki cuisine. This cozy restaurant seats no more than eight guests at a traditional counter, creating an exclusive atmosphere where diners can interact directly with Chef Makoto Fujiwara and his attentive team.

Ryosho’s menu is a masterclass in culinary craftsmanship, highlighting seasonal ingredients with precision and respect. Every dish tells its own story, from the delicate sea bream and bonito sashimi to standout creations like the duck loin paired with fig and sesame cream sauce. The chef’s dexterity with fish is especially remarkable, delivering flavors that elevate traditional Japanese cuisine to an art form.

Not to be missed is the unforgettable eel and rice paired with yuba miso soup, a sublime dish that perfectly balances taste and texture. The tasting menu is carefully crafted to build in flavor intensity with each course, promising a memorable culinary journey for gourmands and food lovers alike.

Enhance your dining experience with Ryosho’s thoughtfully curated wine and sake pairings. Enjoy a selection of exquisite wines chosen to complement each course’s unique flavor profile. Alternatively, savor rare sakes sourced from Kyoto’s finest breweries, adding a traditional and authentic touch to your meal.

 with seating limited to eight guests, fostering a personalized dining experience.

 recognized for its exceptional kaiseki craftsmanship and creativity.

 allowing guests to appreciate the artistry and passion behind every dish.

 that honors Kyoto’s culinary heritage with every thoughtfully plated course.

 due to the intimate setting and high demand.

 experience with no takeout or delivery options.

Experience exquisite kaiseki cuisine at Ryosho, a top-rated Michelin-star restaurant in Kyoto. Taste seasonal ingredients in an intimate setting. Book now!

Ryosho: Michelin-Star Dining in Kyoto's Gion District

Discover top tips and a perfect itinerary for exploring Kyoto's Gion District, home of Ryosho, Michelin-star dining. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture!

Explore Kyoto: Itineraries & Tips for Gion District

Opened in 2022, Ryosho earned two Michelin stars within a year for its innovative kaiseki dishes. Discover our history, community notes, and more!

Savor Exquisite Kaiseki at Ryosho, Kyoto's 2-Star Gem

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