5 sushi restaurants in Kyoto

Kyoto, while less renowned for its sushi than other coastal cities, nonetheless offers an excellent selection of restaurants in which to sample this emblematic Japanese specialty. For travelers in search of an authentic culinary experience, we have selected five establishments that stand out for the quality of their products, their unique ambience and their savoir-faire. From budget options to Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional addresses, here's a guide to satisfy every sushi craving in Kyoto.

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Sushi Tetsu is an excellent choice for sushi lovers on a budget. This restaurant offers a wide menu of fish and original specialties, with very affordable prices, starting at 216 yen for a pair of sushi.

The atmosphere is varied, with the option of sitting at the bar facing the chefs, at a table overlooking the Kamo River, or in a more intimate space on the floor. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit in the early or late evening, as the restaurant is open from 5 p.m. to midnight.

Address: 133-1 Ishiyacho, Pontocho Sanjodori Sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, 604-8002 Kyoto

Sushi Tetsu

The restaurant

Sushi Tetsu

Sushi Tetsu

Onigirizushi at Sushi Tetsu

Hayakusouki

For a more casual and economical sushi experience, Musashi Sushi is the place to go. This kaitensushi (revolving sushi restaurant) offers a lively atmosphere and very attractive prices, with most plates priced at 146 yen.

Located on two floors in the heart of Kyoto's shopping district, Musashi Sushi is perfect for a quick, tasty meal. The concept is simple: you take a seat at the counter and choose the plates that pass in front of you. It's a great way to discover a variety of sushi dishes for less.

Address: 440 Ebisucho, Nakagyo-ku, 604-8005 Kyoto

Musashi

Musashi's main hall

Flickr Chris Gladis

For an upscale dining experience, Gion Matsudaya is a must. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers exceptional intimacy with only 6 seats at the counter, allowing you to watch the chef prepare each dish with artistic precision.

Using the highest quality ingredients, Gion Matsudaya offers sushi of incomparable flavor and texture. The experience comes at a price, with a full menu starting at 20,000 yen per person, but the quality more than justifies the price. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, as seating is limited.

Address: 507-123 Giommachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0074

Matsudaya

The restaurant

Pocket concierge

Matsudaya

Sushi at Matsudaya

Pocket concierge

Kappa Sushi focuses on seasonal fish varieties, offering a menu that evolves throughout the year. The English-speaking chefs are happy to explain each sushi, making the experience both educational and delicious. It's the ideal place to discover more traditional preparations less familiar to tourists.

Address: Shiori Building, 1-2F, Pontocho Shijonoboru, Matsumoto-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

kappa sushi

The restaurant

sharing-kyoto

kappa sushi

Sushi set at Kappa Sushi

sharing-kyoto

To round off our selection, Izuju offers a plunge into Kyoto's culinary history. This century-old restaurant cultivates a legendary savoir-faire, with wood-fired cooking and a menu that has remained virtually unchanged since its creation.

The specialty of the chef, who took over the family business, is mackerel sushi. The establishment is also famous for its inari zushi, a pocket of fried tofu topped with vinegared rice and vegetables. The intimate atmosphere, with its stone floors and panelled walls, will transport you to the Kyoto of yesteryear.

Address: 292-1 Kitagawa, Gion machi, Higashiyamaku, Kyoto

A sushi platter at Izuju restaurant.

Sushi platter from the Izuju restaurant in Kyoto

DR

Izuju

Entrance to the Izuju restaurant.

DR

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