Kyoto Station is often the starting point for those visiting Kyoto, making it crucial to know where to grab a good meal. Fortunately, the station is not just a travel hub but a bustling complex filled with shopping arcades and food streets like JR Kyoto Isetan, Kyoto Porta underground shopping mall, and the famous Kyoto Ramen Alley.

The station offers an impressive array of dining options. Notable eateries include Masutani, known for its rich Kyoto-style ramen, and Katsukura, a must-visit for tender pork cutlets. Whether you’re just arriving or looking for a convenient dining spot, Kyoto Station has something for everyone.

Around Kyoto Station, you'll find a plethora of dining options, from grilled meat restaurants to izakayas, dessert cafes, and more. While exploring the area near the station, you can easily find a delicious meal, whether you're waiting for a train or just taking in the sights. And don't worry about waiting too long; many places accept reservations.

Next up, we'll introduce some must-try spots, including grilled meat, Japanese cuisine, izakayas, local Kyoto delicacies, and matcha-inspired desserts. So, grab your notebook and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure at Kyoto Station!

Tenka No Yakiniku Daimyojin, founded in 1965, specializes in grilled meat courses with all-you-can-drink options. They offer two pricing plans on popular online reservation platforms, both featuring domestically sourced Japanese beef and unlimited beverages. The pricier plan includes wagyu beef, so if you're keen on trying Japan's famed wagyu, it's best to go with the higher-priced option. Check out the reservation link below for more details!

Jojoen is a well-known chain of yakiniku restaurants in Japan. The Kyoto Station location is on the 7th floor of JR Isetan Department Store, directly connected to the station. They specialize in yakiniku courses, with prices typically ranging from 15,000 to 25,000 yen (tax included).

However, during lunchtime, they offer yakiniku sets which are relatively more affordable, with most options priced around 5,000 yen (tax included). If you're looking to save some money, we recommend visiting during lunchtime!

Ramen may seem simple at first glance, but satisfying the discerning taste buds of Kyoto locals is no easy feat! Kyoto ramen comes in various styles, but they all share a common trait: rich, flavorful broth.

The most famous among them are Shinpuku Saikan, touted as Kyoto's oldest ramen shop, and Honke Daiichi Asahi, voted the best ramen spot in Kyoto in 2022, often with long lines. Here, we'll also recommend two equally popular ramen shops for you!

Masutani is located inside Ramen Koji (Ramen Street) on the 10th floor of the Kyoto Station building. They specialize in rich chicken broth soy sauce ramen, with the broth made from chicken bones and enhanced with pork back fat for flavor.

The broth is rich in flavor yet not too heavy, and pairs perfectly with the medium-thick noodles, which are smooth and easy to slurp. The char siu (barbecued pork) is tender and juicy, and the soft-boiled egg is cooked to perfection, with the yolk mixing with the broth, creating an incredibly flavorful experience!

Menya Kotetsu is a Sapporo ramen shop that has made a name for itself in Kyoto. It's the first location in the Kansai region and made its debut in Ramen Koji in June 2023, quickly becoming one of the must-visit shops.

Their signature miso ramen comes in three flavors: spicy Sapporo-aged miso, rich white miso, and savory shrimp miso, each with its own unique flavor profile. Their special fried pork belly served with thick broth is incredibly satisfying—you won't mind the extra calories!

Whether it's kaiseki cuisine, upscale banquet dishes, sukiyaki, unagi don, tempura, or any other traditional Japanese fare, they all fall under the broad umbrella of "Japanese cuisine."

However, discerning Kyoto locals won't settle for just any restaurant! Here, are four Japanese restaurants, ranging from high-end kaiseki cuisine to all-you-can-eat wagyu sukiyaki, and even Michelin-starred restaurants!

Minokichi is a venerable establishment founded in the first year of the Kyoho era (1716). Their menu features Kyoto vegetables and traditional river fish, with seasonal kaiseki dishes crafted to match.

One of their specialties is kaiseki featuring eel (18,000 yen) and softshell turtle (20,000 yen). While it might be a bit pricey, having the opportunity to taste such distinctive dishes in Kyoto without needing insider connections is truly a rare and valuable experience!

This is a high-end restaurant with locations across Japan, specializing in using fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, local Kaga vegetables, and seasonal ingredients. They also pay attention to traditional craftsmanship in the presentation, using Kutani and Ohi tableware.

Not only is the seasoning of the food delicate and refined, but the presentation is also visually stunning. Kagaya Kyoto is located on the 8th floor of JR Isetan Department Store, directly connected to the station. It features large windows with panoramic views.

During the day, you can enjoy a view of Kyoto Tower, while at night, you'll be treated to beautiful Kyoto night scenery (although some seats may not have a clear view due to layout). The atmosphere is elegant, with servers dressed in kimono, creating a charming blend of modernity and tradition.

Unagi Yondaime Kikukawa is a longstanding unagi (eel) restaurant originating in Nagoya, with a history dating back almost a century since its establishment in 1932.

Their most popular specialty is the "Ippon Unagi," where the eel is grilled whole from head to tail. From the eel preparation to skewering and sauce, they have their own set of standards to ensure that the eel rice is served to perfection. Highly recommended for those who love unagi rice!

Sukiyaki and hot pot are must-try Japanese dishes! Tajimaya is a well-known Japanese beef sukiyaki restaurant offering all-you-can-eat options.

The Kyoto Station branch is located on the 6th floor of the Yodobashi electronics store, just a 3-minute walk from the station. Once seated, you can choose between shabu-shabu or sukiyaki, with all-you-can-eat plans featuring different grades of beef or pork.

However, the most popular choices among tourists are definitely the wagyu and domestic beef options.

Among the myriad delicacies in Kyoto, there's a traditional cuisine known as Obonzai. It typically involves dashi broth made from bonito flakes and kombu seaweed, or simmered dishes using light soy sauce.

There are also pickled dishes known as tsukemono, which are considered Kyoto's home-style dishes. Additionally, there are dishes that highlight the use of local Kyoto vegetables known as "Kyoyasai," such as Manganji chili peppers, Kamo eggplant, and Kujo green onions.

These dishes have a distinct and vibrant flavor profile, balancing freshness with sweetness, making them highly characteristic of Kyoto cuisine. We recommend them to anyone eager to savor authentic Kyoto flavors!

Rokkakuya specializes in "dashi" cuisine, or "Oden," offering a variety of dishes made with carefully selected Kyoto red miso. They have everything from traditional to creative modern dishes.

Using fresh seasonal ingredients and handcrafting dishes daily ensures consistent quality and freshness. The taste is reminiscent of Kyoto home cooking with a touch of kaiseki cuisine, making it exceptionally elegant and delightful.

As they only open in the evening, we recommend pairing your meal with a glass of local Kyoto sake for an extra boost of enjoyment!

Seppourai has a unique name and specializes in Kyoto vegetable cuisine, using vegetables sourced from Kyoto Prefecture. They serve seasonal vegetables, so diners can taste the freshest, most delicious flavors!

Along with seasonal vegetables, many of their offerings feature elements of Kyoto ingredients, like nama-fu, and yuba. The restaurant provides semi-private rooms, ensuring a sense of privacy.

It's warm, comfortable atmosphere and fresh dishes make Seppouri a perfect place to unwind, especially when you're feeling weary from travel.

If you happen to find yourself in Kyoto late at night, perhaps after enjoying the sights for too long or catching a late bus or flight, and you've missed dinner, don't worry! In addition to convenience stores, there are plenty of places around Kyoto Station where you can enjoy a satisfying meal.

One great option is to visit an izakaya. There are plenty of these Japanese pubs around around Kyoto Station, typically offering a variety of dishes like grilled skewers, fried foods, and beer. Some establishments even serve main dishes like Osaka-style okonomiyaki or ramen.

The options are plentiful, so you'll certainly be able to enjoy a hearty meal!

Sashisu Sushi Bar is a popular sushi izakaya from Osaka, combining the best of both worlds: sushi and izakaya dining. When the first location opened, it drew long lines, marking the birth of the "sushi izakaya" culture.

In December 2023, much to the anticipation of many, it made its Kyoto debut. Signature dishes like the visually striking "Tuna Roll," the generous "Ebi 7" featuring seven kinds of shrimp, and the unique "Deep-Fried Eel Sushi Sandwich" are all crowd favorites.

Affordable, delicious, and visually stunning, it's a hit among local young office workers and OLs (office ladies).

When you see a teppanyaki izakaya, you know it's all about dishes like Osaka-style okonomiyaki and fried noodles cooked on a hot iron plate! Their standout dish is the "Negi-yaki Set" made with Kyoto vegetables, featuring Kyoto Kujo green onions, salad, and two Kyoto home-style dishes.

If you're still hungry, you can always order more options like Osaka-style okonomiyaki, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, or ochazuke (tea poured over rice). They also offer a variety of drinks including red wine, sake, and beer, making it the perfect spot for a late-night snack!

Matcha is one of Kyoto's most iconic specialties, beloved for its unique flavor and vibrant green color. Many dessert aficionados are captivated by the distinctive taste and appearance of matcha, whether it's in the form of matcha parfait, matcha jelly, or matcha-flavored cookies.

Famous establishments like Nakamura Tokichi, Tsujiri, and Itohkyuemon offer a wide array of matcha treats. These delights are not only perfect as souvenirs to share with friends back home but also ideal for indulging in while seated at a local café.

Whether you're enjoying the cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, or simply taking a break from sightseeing, savoring matcha desserts adds to the overall experience.

When it comes to matcha in Kyoto, many people think of this place! The main Nakamura Tokichi store in Uji, Kyoto, was founded in 1854 and now you can enjoy it at Kyoto Station without traveling far.

Popular items like matcha parfait and matcha jelly are must-tries, and they also offer savory options like matcha soba and matcha udon if you haven't had a proper meal yet. Because it's such a popular spot, it's advisable to allow some extra time for waiting to be seated.

Saryo Tsujiri is an esteemed establishment originating from the renowned Uji tea brand Gion Tsujiri. It's a teahouse café specializing in desserts featuring Uji matcha. Whether it's matcha parfait, matcha jelly, shiratama dango with matcha, or matcha ice cream, each item carries the essence of "Tsujiri" and embodies the delicate elegance of Uji matcha.

The Kyoto Isetan store underwent a renovations and reopened in March 2024, offering not only matcha desserts but also set meals paired with matcha soba noodles or seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets).

Gion Tsujiri has recently launched a new brand! This time it's all about beverages with "BUBURU." They combine tea with various elements like bubble fruit tea, tea lattes, tea smoothies, mint tea, and more, offering unexpected and delightful combinations.

It's a fresh take on the flavors of Gion Uji tea. The shop opened in October 2023 at ASTY Kyoto on the 2nd floor of Kyoto Station's Shinkansen Central Exit. Besides beverages, they also offer takeaway items like mini burgers and noodles, perfect for grabbing a quick snack!

Here's an insider tip for dining options at Kyoto Station: Among the 15 restaurants mentioned earlier, many are located within the retail centers inside Kyoto Station itself, such as JR Kyoto Isetan Department Store and Kyoto Omotenashi Alley.

Beyond the station, you'll find large commercial complexes like AEON MALL KYOTO and Kyoto Yodobashi. These places offer a perfect combination of shopping and dining.

If you're unsure about where to eat, just take a stroll and browse through the restaurants' menus outside each establishments and you can quickly find something that piques your interest. Plus, after a satisfying meal, you can do some shopping!

Kyoto's recommended cuisine is diverse, ranging from yakiniku and ramen to izakayas, Kyoto Obanzai, kaiseki cuisine, matcha, and more. Most feature elements unique to Kyoto, offering an authentic taste of the city right at Kyoto Station and nearby.

Keep in mind that Kyoto has always been a popular tourist destination, so it's best to make reservations for accommodations and restaurants in advance to save yourself both trouble and time.

(The information in this article is based on data available as of April 2024. For the latest updates, please refer to the respective official websites.)