If you’re wondering what to eat in Kyoto on your first trip, you’re in for a treat.
Food in Kyoto is very different from other cities in Japan. It’s more refined, more seasonal, and often surprisingly simple — but in the best way possible. From casual street food to high-end dining experiences, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
This guide covers exactly what to eat in Kyoto, based on real experiences and must-try dishes you’ll find across the city.
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1. Takoyaki (Octopus Balls)
I tried takoyaki during a day trip to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and they ended up being one of those simple snacks that just hit the spot.
This street food is popular all across Japan.
They’re small balls made from a batter and usually filled with pieces of octopus, cooked in a special pan that gives them their signature round shape.
On top, they’re finished with a sweet-savory sauce and mayo, which makes them even better.
They’re quick, tasty, and honestly one of the easiest things to grab while exploring.
2. Japanese Vegetable Curry
During my trip to Arashiyama, I also tried a vegan version of Japanese curry, which ended up being a really comforting meal.
If you’re planning what to eat in Kyoto, this is definitely something worth adding to your list.
It’s a vegetarian take on the classic kare rice, served with a portion of white rice and eaten with a spoon.
It still has that rich, slightly sweet flavor you expect from Japanese curry, and honestly, it was perfect after a long day of exploring.
3. Yakisoba (Stir-Fried Noodles)
Another dish I tried in Arashiyama was stir-fried noodles with vegetables and chicken, and it was honestly really good.
The noodles had that slightly chewy texture, coated in a sweet and savory sauce that makes them super easy to enjoy. It’s one of those meals that feels familiar but still flavorful.
Definitely a safe option — even picky eaters will like this one.
4. Udon with Tempura
While walking around Arashiyama looking for matcha desserts, we stumbled upon a small food court with several street food stalls.
It was packed, but we decided to stay and try something anyway — and it was totally worth it.
We ended up ordering udon, a warm soup made with a light fish-based broth and thick noodles with that signature chewy texture.
On the side, we had tempura with fish and crab, which added the perfect crispy contrast.
It was such a comforting meal, especially with the cold weather.
5. Crab Sticks
After visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha, we grabbed some grilled crab sticks, and they ended up being such a good snack.
They were freshly grilled, slightly smoky, and had that perfect balance of juicy and crispy on the outside.
It’s a simple dish, but honestly really delicious — and perfect to share while taking a break after all the walking.
6. Matcha Desserts
Kyoto is known for its high-quality matcha, so this is definitely something you shouldn’t skip.
If you’re planning what to eat in Kyoto, make sure to include matcha desserts on your list.
This is also the best place to buy ceremonial-grade matcha if you’re thinking about bringing souvenirs or gifts back home.
I tried matcha ice cream in a cone, and it was honestly so good — sweet without being overpowering, and much smoother than what you might expect.
7. Yudofu (Boiled Tofu)
For something more traditional, yudofu is a must when exploring what to eat in Kyoto.
It’s simple — tofu served in hot water with a light sauce — but incredibly delicate and flavorful. You’ll often find it near temple areas.
8. Street Food at Nishiki Market
During our private tour, our guide Tom surprised us with a stop at Nishiki Market, even though it wasn’t part of the original itinerary — and it ended up being such a great experience.
Having a local from Kyoto guide you through the best spots really makes a difference. He even took us to try and buy things like furikake and Japanese chili sauce, which were honestly delicious.
One of the best parts is that many stores let you sample products for free, with no pressure to buy.
You’ll also find a huge variety of food here, from sushi and takoyaki to okonomiyaki and yakitori — all in one place, which makes it perfect if you’re figuring out what to eat in Kyoto.
9. Wagashi (Traditional Sweets)
Wagashi are traditional Japanese sweets that you should try at least once.
They’re beautifully crafted, lightly sweet, and often reflect the seasons — making them as much an experience as a dessert.
10. Teppanyaki Experience at Teppan Dining L’ajitto
If you want something more special while figuring out what to eat in Kyoto, this was easily one of the highlights of my trip.
Our guide took us to a restaurant he personally knows and visits often called Teppan Dining L’ajitto, and it turned out to be an incredible experience.
Honestly, we wouldn’t have been able to make a reservation on our own, but he handled everything in Japanese, which made it so much easier.
We took a taxi from Fushimi Inari Taisha and arrived early, so we were the only guests at the time.
That made the whole experience feel even more special — we could take photos and videos comfortably while the chef prepared everything right in front of us.
The setup is amazing: the chef cooks on a teppan (a flat iron grill) placed right in front of the counter, which makes it super interactive and fun to watch.
There’s an à la carte menu, but we went for the multi-course option, and it was 100% worth it.
The meal included several dishes like a white onion soup, a selection of nigiri, chicken with olive sauce, grilled tomatoes with cheese, and the highlight for me — incredible cuts of Miyazaki beef that were just next level.
To finish, dessert was included (I chose vanilla ice cream with custard), and the whole experience cost around 10,000 yen (about $65 USD).
It’s definitely more of a splurge, but absolutely worth doing at least once if you’re looking to explore the best restaurants in Kyoto.
Dining in Kyoto: Tips You Should Know
Before planning your meals, here are a few helpful tips for dining in Kyoto:
- Many restaurants are small, so expect limited seating
- Some places require reservations, especially for Kyoto top restaurants
- Cash is still widely used, though cards are becoming more common
- Don’t expect loud environments — dining here is usually calm and quiet
- Lunch is often cheaper than dinner for the same quality
Understanding these basics will make your dining in Kyoto experience much smoother.
FAQ About What to Eat in Kyoto
What is the best food in Kyoto for first-time visitors?
The best food in Kyoto for first-timers includes ramen, matcha desserts, udon, and street food from Nishiki Market. These are easy to find and give you a great introduction to local flavors.
Are there affordable options when deciding what to eat in Kyoto?
Yes — if you’re wondering what to eat in Kyoto on a budget, options like ramen, curry, yakisoba, and market food are all affordable and widely available.
Do I need reservations for the best restaurants in Kyoto?
For some of the best restaurants in Kyoto, especially high-end or traditional spots, reservations are recommended. However, casual places usually don’t require them.
What makes Kyoto top restaurants different?
Kyoto top restaurants often focus on seasonal ingredients, presentation, and traditional techniques. Dining here is more about the full experience, not just the food.
Is Kyoto good for food lovers?
Absolutely. From street food to fine dining, the best food in Kyoto offers a balance of tradition, quality, and variety that’s hard to match.
Final Thoughts
If you were wondering what to eat in Kyoto, this list gives you a solid starting point without overcomplicating things.
From quick street food to more refined meals, the variety of the best food in Kyoto means you’ll never run out of options — and honestly, some of your best meals will probably be the ones you don’t plan.
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