Kyoto Kiu
京都きう

Kiu is a unique, referral-only restaurant in Kyoto, meaning its phone number isn’t publicly available, and reservations can’t be made through social media or email.

Founded by Chef Kazuo Hisada, the owner of Sushi Hisada in Okayama, the restaurant wasn’t intended to seek Michelin recognition. Chef Hisada initially trained in Italian cuisine but started working at his uncle’s sushi restaurant after graduating. At just 23, he opened his own sushi restaurant in Okayama, which quickly gained popularity for its use of fresh ingredients from the Seto Sea.

Twenty-five years later, Chef Hisada opened Kiu in Kyoto with a different vision: to offer a fusion of sushi and Italian cuisine in a non-sushi setting. This is reflected in the name “Kiu”, which doesn’t include the kanji for sushi. The referral-only policy and private bookings were designed to create a home-like atmosphere, where guests can relax and enjoy their meal without being surrounded by strangers.

If Chef Hisada’s cuisine could be summarized in a few words, it would be “Sushi Innovation.” His dishes offer a unique experience that surprises diners with something new on every visit.