Kyoto is full of restaurants where food is not only delicious, but also visually stunning.
In this article, I introduce three popular Kyoto restaurants where you can enjoy small portions of many dishes,
beautifully presented on a single plate or set.
Perfect for travelers who want to taste a variety of flavors without feeling overwhelmed,
these spots combine Kyoto aesthetics, seasonal ingredients, and memorable dining experiences.
Tsuke-yasai Isoism | A Colorful Plate of Kyoto Vegetables
Tsuke-yasai Isoism is a popular restaurant known for its vibrant and healthy dishes centered around Kyoto vegetables.
Their lunch plate features around 1６ different kinds of pickled vegetables, each prepared with a different seasoning or pickling method. The result looks almost like edible art.
When I spoke with the staff, I learned that Isoism is part of the Isozumi Group, which operates 11 restaurants using vegetables sourced directly from their own farm.
The white wine–marinated tomatoes are almost dessert-like, making them unexpectedly addictive.
This commitment to ingredients is clearly reflected in the quality of the food.
They also serve original blended alcoholic drinks.
I tried one and found it very smooth and easy to drink, pairing perfectly with the vegetables.
Afterward, I visited another Isozumi Group restaurant called Onikai because I wanted more Kyoto vegetables.
The seasoning there was slightly stronger—designed to pair with alcohol—but the simmered vegetables were especially impressive, bringing out the natural sweetness of the produce.
What stood out most was the hospitality.
Every staff member was cheerful and welcoming, creating a warm and memorable dining experience.
- A colorful assortment of beautifully pickled Kyoto vegetables
- Part of the Isozumi Group, using vegetables from their own farm
- Original blended drinks that are easy to enjoy
- Convenient location within walking distance of Kyoto Station
- Thoughtful and welcoming hospitality
M&Maison Kyoto | Modern Japanese Comfort Food with a Global Touch
M&Maison Kyoto offers a modern interpretation of traditional Japanese set meals,
inspired by a concept that originated in New York.
Based on classic Japanese styles such as ichiju-sansai (one soup, three dishes), their meals are thoughtfully arranged and visually elegant.
You can choose between white rice or an upgraded flavored rice.
I selected the corn rice, which had a wonderfully toasted aroma.
The sweetness of the corn stood out, making it a dish that both adults and children would enjoy.
The side dishes were equally creative: pickles made with herbs and vinegar, and kiriboshi daikon mixed with basil, blending Japanese and Western flavors in a natural way.
This restaurant is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a relaxed lunch, offering food that feels gentle, nourishing, and stylish at the same time.
- Beautifully styled Japanese set meals
- Choice of white rice or flavored rice options
- Creative Japanese–Western side dishes
- Photogenic, modern Japanese interior
Itsuki Chaya (Fushimi Inari) | A Scenic and Relaxing Kyoto Dining Experience
Itsuki Chaya is best known for its Arashiyama location, but I visited the Fushimi Inari branch, which offers a calmer and more relaxed atmosphere.
From the restaurant, you can enjoy views of a peaceful garden, making it a perfect place to rest during sightseeing.
Despite being close to major tourist spots, the space feels quiet and unhurried.
Their signature meal features five small rice bowls, each topped with different seasonal ingredients.
The presentation is beautiful, and the variety makes the meal feel both indulgent and balanced.
Clear instructions are provided on how to enjoy each dish.
Simmered vegetable clay pot rice (not pictured)
Three kinds of obanzai
Wagyu sukiyaki
Yuzu-scented kinmedai yu-an–grilled sushi
Shrimp & winter Kyoto vegetable tempura donburi
Winter yellowtail & Kyoto vegetable shabu-shabu
One memorable highlight was wrapping wagyu beef in seaweed before eating—a simple but fun and unique experience.
In addition,pouring dashi over the lightly fried shrimp tempura creates a surprisingly unique and delicious dish.
This is not just a meal, but a full sensory experience that blends taste, presentation, and atmosphere.
- A quieter alternative to the famous Fushimi Inari location
- Five different rice bowls to enjoy small portions of many flavors
- Garden views and a relaxing atmosphere
- A great choice for sightseeing breaks or special lunches
Conclusion | Enjoying Kyoto, One Beautiful Bite at a Time
These three restaurants all offer something special:
beautiful presentation, satisfying flavors, and the joy of enjoying many dishes in small portions.
- Isoism ：showcases the true charm of Kyoto vegetables
- M&Maison Kyoto ：presents Japanese comfort food in a modern, global style
- Itsuki Chaya (Fushimi Inari) ：combines scenery and cuisine into one memorable experience
If you’re looking for Kyoto restaurants where you can enjoy a little of everything, these three spots are well worth visiting.
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