It is nearly impossible to get a reservation at many restaurants in Kyoto without a referral. The purpose of this is to preserve the values of a restaurant and its unique atmosphere created by its owner and other long-time patrons.

Near Kyoto’s Higashiyama Chion-in, along the scenic Shirakawa River, is Sakana Ryori Aoyagi. This establishment has only six counter seats. It is known among foodies as an exclusive referral-only restaurant which serves the best of fish cuisine.

Since its opening in 2007, Chef Akihiro Aoyagi has been creating dishes which highlight the unique characteristics of each fish based on what is the freshest catch of that day. Chef Aoyagi’s personal goal is to provide an experience to his guests which changes their concept of what delicious fish is.

He never deviates from his daily routine of visiting the fish market every morning to exchange information with fish dealers, ensuring the procurement of high-quality fish based which is not on cost-effectiveness but on its quality. This fresh fish is prepared with various cooking methods such as sashimi, charcoal grilling, and frying, resulting in the most amazing dishes which truly expresses the seasonality and individuality of its ingredients.

To complement the dishes, a selection of top-notch sake such as Juyondai and Kokuryu, as well as uncommon champagne and wines, is always available.

Chef Aoyagi is both a fish and a sake enthusiast and we cannot recommend his delicious cuisine as well as his selection of alcohol enough to those who enjoy eating fish.

※ Please note that reservations are currently limited to private bookings for 4 to 6 people.