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Kyoto

Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant is renowned for its traditional Kyoto kaiseki cuisine, offering meticulously prepared dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. Guests appreciate the serene ambiance, attentive service, and the opportunity to experience authentic Kyoto dining. The private rooms and garden views enhance the overall dining experience, making it a favored choice for both locals and visitors.

Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant Kyoto Japan Dining Experience Overview 

Nestled in the tranquil heart of Kyoto's Sakyo Ward, Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant offers an unforgettable kaiseki dining adventure that blends traditional Japanese culinary artistry with serene natural surroundings. This Michelin-starred establishment is famed for its meticulous presentation and immersive ambiance, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking authentic Japanese haute cuisine.

A Unique Kaiseki Experience Amidst Serene Gardens

Diners delight in private rooms surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase peaceful garden views, offering a quiet and intimate atmosphere. The setting feels like a respite from the bustling city, with gentle sounds of nature occasionally mingling with distant city life. This harmonious environment enhances the enjoyment of each carefully crafted dish, from roe soaked in uni to delicate crab fishballs, highlighting the chef’s dedication to seasonal flavors and artistic presentation.

Shimogamo Saryo is celebrated for its kaiseki course meals that offer a refined journey through traditional Japanese cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to balance taste, texture, and visual appeal. While many guests rave about the flawless service and detailed attention, it's worth noting that the sophisticated flavors may be an acquired taste for some, particularly those less familiar with traditional Japanese ingredients and subtle seasonings. Nonetheless, the restaurant’s dedication to hospitality ensures a memorable dining experience.

Plan Your Visit to Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant

 Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant’s popularity and intimate setting. Guests can enjoy lunch and dinner services, with a menu designed to provide an authentic kaiseki experience. The restaurant accepts credit cards and offers wheelchair accessible facilities, including a barrier-free room on the first floor. Parking is limited but available, accommodating about eight vehicles in total.

What is the dress code at Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant?

 The restaurant recommends smart casual or semi-formal attire. Casual wear such as sandals, t-shirts, and shorts are not permitted.

 Limited parking is available, accommodating approximately 4 cars in front of the store and 4 cars on the north side.

 Children are welcome. For families with children, private rooms are available to ensure a comfortable dining experience.

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible, with a barrier-free room available on the 1st floor.

 Yes, the restaurant accepts various credit cards, including VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, Diners Club, and UnionPay.

Overall, Shimogamo Saryo garners a highly positive community sentiment. Guests frequently praise the impeccable service, peaceful ambiance, and the exquisite artistry of each dish. The private rooms overlooking the garden and river are especially cherished for their tranquil setting, creating a moment of escape and reflection. While the traditional Japanese flavors might challenge some palates, the restaurant stands as a beacon of Kyoto’s culinary heritage and is strongly recommended for those seeking an authentic and refined dining journey.

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Japan

Nestled in the serene surroundings of Kyoto, the **Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant** offers a unique dining experience that beautifully marries tradition with culinary artistry. This Michelin-starred establishment specializes in kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation. As you step inside, you're greeted by a tranquil ambiance, enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the lush garden outside, creating a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

The restaurant's signature dish, the **crab fishball**, is a delightful surprise that showcases the chef's skill in balancing flavors and textures. Each bite reveals a burst of umami, perfectly complemented by a light dipping sauce. Another standout is the **roe soaked in uni**, a dish that elevates the dining experience to new heights with its rich, creamy texture and oceanic flavor.

At Shimogamo Saryo, every meal is a celebration of nature's bounty. The kaiseki menu changes seasonally, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting. The chefs take pride in sourcing local ingredients, which not only supports the community but also enhances the freshness of each dish. The experience is further enriched by the attentive service, where the staff is dedicated to making your dining experience memorable.

One of the restaurant's most charming features is its private dining rooms, which offer an intimate setting for special occasions. Guests can enjoy their meal while surrounded by the beauty of the garden, creating a serene atmosphere that enhances the flavors of the food.

Located at 62 Shimogamo Miyakawachō in Kyoto, the restaurant is easily accessible and surrounded by beautiful temples and gardens. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby **Shimogamo Shrine**, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or explore the lush paths of the **Philosopher's Path**, which is particularly stunning during cherry blossom season.

What is the dress code at Shimogamo Saryo?

 The restaurant encourages smart casual attire to enhance the dining experience.

 Yes, reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

 The restaurant specializes in kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, a meal at Shimogamo Saryo is an experience not to be missed. Indulge in the exquisite flavors of kaiseki while enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Make your reservation today and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the heart of Japanese cuisine.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIdnB6UGpBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv0lV1EMIAWAR4KjdVnmV0Ls/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIdnB6UGpBRRAB

Aska and the team made us the most amazing set of meals that me and my partner have had in a number of years.
I simply cannot fault the impeccable service and attention to detail at this wonderful establishment. I cannot stress enough that if you can afford this place you simply MUST GO!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3bXJuVlBREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv0lV1EMIAWAR4KjdVnmV0Ls/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3bXJuVlBREAE

The food was not good.  We did a lot of research before coming to Kyoto and looked at a lot of pictures from previous menus at this restaurant.  Each one looked delicious, as you’d expect from a fairly expensive Michelin-starred meal.  My family was very excited to try this restaurant.

The menu we got was dreadful.  Dry, unseasoned little baby fish.  Unchewably tough eel and whitefish in the sashimi course.  Flavorless somen with uni sauce.  My son got a Wagyu course substitution, and they just brought out slices of essentially raw unseasoned Wagyu.  It was bland and off-putting. Dessert was good enough but very basic — we had better ice cream walking around the most touristy area of Gion earlier today.

Service was fine and polite, but they never once asked if we were happy with our food.  And when we sent back several courses almost totally untouched, they never asked if there was something they could do to help us enjoy the meal more.  They did sub out some eel for my wife and son, but the white fish they gave us instead could not be chewed.  It was as tough as rubber.

The private room is beautiful.  The garden in the back is beautiful.  The food, at least tonight, was awful.  We are in the taxi going to eat pizza, $800+ poorer.  Worst of all, we lost a night of dinner somewhere else better during our limited time in this fantastic city.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURWNy1iTmtnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv0lV1EMIAWAR4KjdVnmV0Ls/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURWNy1iTmtnRRAB

We arrived an hour early for our reservation and they politely seated us. This was my first time having kaiseki in a private room, and the ambiance was so peaceful, quiet, and serene. The garden surrounded us as we dined with floor to ceiling windows around us. It felt like we were transported into nature far away except when the moment you could hear car engines driving by.

It was a delightful experience with various surprises throughout the meal from roe soaked in uni to my favorite dish the crab fishball, so simple yet so well done. It's a pretty price to pay but I guess if we were do to Kaiseki just once in kyoto, you should try to snag a reservation here if you can.

The dessert was a bit of a let down as it was just seemed like a sweet potato blob - given there are various ways to plate it I think they probably could have done better.

They were very polite and we felt alone the whole time which is kind an odd feeling. The sake selection was also just okay, there was a pretty funky one (pictured below) which too my surprise I didn't know they could make funky sake!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2MWJTLXhRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv0lV1EMIAWAR4KjdVnmV0Ls/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2MWJTLXhRRRAB

1 star Michelin Restaurant. Kaiseki course. Food is fantastic.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNadjYyTkZREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv0lV1EMIAWAR4KjdVnmV0Ls/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNadjYyTkZREAE

Tonight, I had an incredible dining experience at this restaurant! The menu offers a delightful array of traditional Japanese dishes that are not only delicious but also beautifully presented with meticulous attention to detail. What truly sets this place apart is the exceptional service – unlike anything we've ever experienced. For anyone visiting Japan for the first time, I recommend this restaurant.

Luxury Kaiseki Dining at Shimogamo Saryo, Kyoto

Established in 1856, Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant is a historic kaiseki restaurant located near the UNESCO World Heritage site, Shimogamo Shrine. It has been serving traditional Kyoto cuisine for over 150 years, emphasizing local ingredients and seasonal flavors.

Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant history overview 

Nestled in the scenic Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant boasts a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1856. This ryotei, a traditional Japanese dining establishment, has stood for over 150 years as a guardian of Kyoto's culinary heritage. Situated near the revered Shimogamo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the restaurant embodies the spirit and culture of the region through its exquisite cuisine and serene setting.

Shimogamo Saryo is celebrated for its mastery of Kyoto kaiseki, a culinary art that highlights seasonal ingredients with impeccable presentation and delicate flavors. Over the decades, the restaurant has cultivated a reputation for meticulous preparation and an unwavering commitment to tradition. Each dish is crafted to offer a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and aesthetic appeal—a true reflection of Japanese cultural values.

Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant was established in Kyoto, marking the beginning of its enduring culinary journey.

The restaurant earned a prestigious Michelin star, affirming its position among Kyoto’s finest dining experiences.

Through its long history, Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant remains a beacon of traditional Japanese hospitality and culinary excellence. Its dedication to preserving Kyoto's rich gastronomic customs makes it an essential destination for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts visiting the city.

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Good for Children

At the heart of Kyoto, nestled amongst ancient shrines and tranquil gardens, lies the exquisite Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant. This culinary gem marries the elegance of traditional Japanese dining with an air of serene sophistication. The restaurant's offerings reflect the rich heritage of Kyoto's kaiseki cuisine, where every dish is a masterpiece crafted with seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets. What truly sets Shimogamo Saryo apart is its stunning location, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Shimogamo Shrine gardens, one of the oldest in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant

A traditional multi-course meal highlighting seasonal ingredients and Kyoto-style preparations.

Wagyu Sukiyaki Aoi

Special Wagyu Tadasu

Seasonal Appetizers

Kyoto Fresh Fish Vegetable Salad

Seasonal Vegetable Soup

Assorted Kyoto-Style Side Dishes

Kamameshi (Pot Rice)

Chazuke

Spicy Miso Soup

Seasonal Fruits

Assorted Desserts

Kaiseki Course Menu

Traditional Kyoto Kaiseki Cuisine at Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant.

Nestled in the serene district of Shimogamo Miyakawachō in Kyoto, Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant offers an exquisite journey into the heart of traditional Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine. This celebrated establishment specializes in meticulously crafted seasonal dishes, presenting a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and visual elegance that captures the essence of Japan’s culinary artistry.

 at Shimogamo Saryo include delicate bites that awaken the palate, such as roe soaked in creamy uni, offering a luxurious oceanic flavor. The seasonal selection ensures freshness and reflects Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.

The core of the dining experience is the elegant Kaiseki courses, offered both for lunch and dinner. The Lunch Mini Kaiseki features masterfully prepared Kyoto-style dashi soup and a grilled appetizer alongside seasonal dishes that celebrate local produce. For dinner, the Kaiseki Course expands the journey, including rice paired with fresh seasonal ingredients and concluding with a carefully curated dessert.

Desserts provide a gentle close to the meal, often featuring seasonal flavors such as the subtle sweetness of sweet potato. While simple in presentation, these desserts complement the preceding courses by offering a refined, balanced finish to the kaiseki experience.

Shimogamo Saryo offers a thoughtful selection of beverages to accompany your meal, including a curated range of sake known for both classic and adventurous flavors. Beer and wine are also available, perfectly paired with the delicate umami of kaiseki dishes to enhance your dining pleasure.

 – a simple yet skillfully prepared dish that stands out for its delicate texture and memorable flavor, often cited as a highlight.

 – an indulgent starter that marries rich sea flavors with a silky texture, elevating the kaiseki tasting experience.

Savor authentic Kyoto cuisine at Shimogamo Saryo, nestled in the serene Sakyo Ward. Experience tradition and flavor—reserve your table today!

Shimogamo Saryo Restaurant in Kyoto - Authentic Cuisine

Sakyo Ward Municipality

Eight private rooms accommodating 2 to 8 guests, offering an intimate dining experience.

Private Dining Rooms

Takeaway sets including luxurious bowls, sake snacks, and bento boxes for home enjoyment.

Takeaway Options

Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant Kyoto Japan Dining Experience 

Nestled in the tranquil Shimogamo Miyakawachō district of Kyoto, Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant offers an exceptional kaiseki dining experience that artfully blends traditional Japanese culinary artistry with a peaceful ambiance. This Michelin-starred establishment is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Kyoto’s refined cuisine.

Elegant Private Rooms for Intimate Dining 

Enjoy a serene and intimate meal in one of the restaurant’s private rooms, designed to host groups from two up to eight guests. Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, guests are treated to stunning views of the beautifully manicured garden, creating a tranquil setting that transports diners into nature while still within the heart of Kyoto.

Exquisite Kaiseki Cuisine and Thoughtful Service 

Shimogamo Saryo specializes in kaiseki, the traditional multi-course Japanese dinner known for its meticulous preparation and artistic presentation. Diners can expect a carefully curated menu featuring seasonal ingredients like roe soaked in uni, delicately crafted crab fishballs, and expertly sliced sashimi. While some guests have noted that the pricing reflects the premium experience, many praise the culinary creativity and precision that elevates each dish to an art form.

 is a hallmark of Shimogamo Saryo, with attentive staff ensuring a memorable dining experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming. The peaceful atmosphere allows guests to fully immerse themselves in traditional Kyoto hospitality.

Amenities and Guest Experience Highlights

 Entirely smoke-free to maintain a fresh and comfortable dining atmosphere.

 Catering to international guests with menus in English upon request.

 Convenient payment options for travelers.

Ideal for special occasions or an immersive cultural dining experience, Shimogamo Saryo invites guests to reserve in advance to secure one of their elegant private rooms. Although the restaurant does not offer takeout or delivery, the in-house dining promises an unparalleled journey through Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

 with Shimogamo Saryo Main Restaurant — where tradition, exquisite flavors, and serene ambiance come together for a truly memorable dining experience.

Experience authentic Kyoto kaiseki at Shimogamo Saryo, a historic restaurant near Shimogamo Shrine with seasonal menus and private rooms.

Visit Shimogamo Saryo in Kyoto - 5-Star Traditional Cuisine

Discover Shimogamo Saryo, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Kyoto offering exquisite seasonal dishes, private rooms, and serene garden views near Shimogamo Shrine.

Kyoto's Shimogamo Saryo - Michelin Star Dining & Cultural Experience

Deepen your Kyoto visit with Shimogamo Saryo's authentic cuisine and nearby cultural sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage site, Shimogamo Shrine.

Luxury Kaiseki Dining at Shimogamo Saryo, Kyoto

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