Tucked away in a hidden alley of Pontocho, Kyoto, this Japanese restaurant evokes the nostalgic charm of the 1980s, offering a timeless dining experience.
Jikishinbou Saiki
直心房 さいき
KYOTO
/
Japanese Cuisine
A top-recommended Japanese restaurant in Kyoto where you can deepen your understanding of Japanese cuisine while conversing in English with the chef.
- Counter Seating
- Solo Diner Accepted
- Open for Lunch
Just a short walk from Yasaka Shrine’s south gate, Jikishinbo Saiki is a celebrated culinary destination in Kyoto.
Chef-owner Mitsuru Saiki, the 3rd-generation heir of the long-established Kyoryori Saikiya (founded in 1934), opened this counter-style restaurant in Gion in 2009.
From 2011, he earned a Michelin one-star rating for six consecutive years.
Chef Saiki holds that aroma is the essence of Kyoto cuisine, with dashi taking center stage. His dedication to flavor led him to pursue formal study, completing a Master’s in Food and Nutritional Sciences at Kyoto University in 2015, and later earning a doctorate in Agri-Food Science from Ryukoku University in 2021.
Guided by deep respect for seasonal ingredients and uncompromising craftsmanship, Chef Saiki creates each dish with precision. Guests seated at the counter can enjoy not only the preparation but also rich conversation in English, gaining insight into the flavors and philosophy behind each plate.
Whether you are new to Japanese cuisine or a seasoned connoisseur, Jikishinbo Saiki offers an experience that goes beyond dining—deepening your appreciation of Kyoto’s culinary soul.
| Address | 443-1 Kamibentencho, Yasaka-Torii-Sagaru, Higashiyamaku, Kyoto |
|---|---|
| Business hours | Lunch: 11:30 to 14:30（Last order at 13:00） Dinner: 17:30 to 22:00（Last order at 19:30） |
| Closed | Wednesdays |
| Directions | 15-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station (7 minutes by taxi) |
| Price | From ¥15,000 |
| Seating | 15 seats ・7 counter seats ・8 table seats |
| Smoking | Prohibited |
| Children | Children 13 years and older who can order a course are welcome. |
| Wi-Fi | None |
| Language | English |
| Parking | None |
| Dresscode | Smart Casual required. ※ Beach sandals, athletic wear such as sweatpants, T-shirts, tank tops, camisoles, and short pants are not permitted. ※ Guests wearing strong perfume or cologne will be denied entry. |
| Payment method | 【Advance payment for online reservation】 PayPal or Credit Card 【Payment for additional orders at the restaurant】 Cash or Credit Card |
| Cancellation Policy | The terms for cancellations and changes may differ based on the restaurant's policies, reservation date, time, and number of guests. Before making your reservation, please review and agree to the terms and policies listed on the reservation form. |
| Concierge Service Fee | 10% |
443-1 Kamibentencho, Yasaka-Torii-Sagaru, Higashiyamaku, Kyoto
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