10 Local Dishes to Try in Kyoto – Savour the Rich Flavours of Japan

A delicious Japanese curry dish that is popular throughout the country, Katsu Curry is made with a breaded and fried cutlet of meat placed on top of a bed of rice and smothered in a rich curry sauce. The dish is hearty and filling and can be found at many a luxury hotel in Kyoto.

This is a type of Japanese noodle soup that is flavoured with miso paste, which gives it a deep, savoury flavour. The dish typically includes sliced pork, green onions, and bean sprouts, and it is often garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or nori. Miso Ramen is a popular dish in Kyoto, especially during the colder months.

This is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal that is often compared to haute cuisine in the Western world. Kaiseki Ryori is a true culinary experience, with each dish carefully prepared and presented to showcase the flavours and ingredients of the season. The meal typically includes a mix of hot and cold dishes, with many small plates served one after the other. If you’ve selected one of the Kyoto hotels with restaurants for your holiday, be sure to sample the taste of Kaiseki Ryori.

A simple yet delicious dish that is popular in Kyoto, Yudofu consists of tofu that is simmered in a hot pot of dashi broth, and is often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, green onion, and ginger. The dish is light and healthy, which makes it a great option for vegetarians and those looking for a low-calorie meal. You can try this dish at most Japanese restaurants as well as places like the Oike Café by Park Hotel Kyoto.

This is a type of home-cooked cuisine that is unique to Kyoto. The dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients, and the style of cooking is often described as “grandma's cooking”. Obanzai meals typically include a variety of small plates that are designed to showcase the flavours and textures of the ingredients. The dishes are simple, hearty, and delicious.

Although this is a savoury pancake that is popular throughout Japan, Okonomiyaki has a unique twist in Kyoto. The Kyoto-style okonomiyaki is made with a mix of shredded cabbage, meat or seafood, and flour batter, and it is often topped with a variety of condiments like mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, and bonito flakes.