We wandered past this place by accident after a walk through ponto-cho. Ken came onto the street to tell us he was full, but to come back in an hour. We did just that and had a great meal, probably the most memorable of our two week trip. Couldn't recommend this place highly enough for those like us without a... More

I chose to book at this restaurant after seeing all of the great ratings on TA. As others said, the owner was very kind and welcoming - his English is excellent bc he spent some years working in the States. His server was also extremely kind and attentive. We all ordered the recommended set dinner - multiple types of fish,... More

Found this place off trip advisor and was able to get a reservation that night. The atmosphere is very laid back and if you can get a seat around the bar you will be ensured great service by the owner Ken. We ordered the Chef Choice Dinner Set for about $3500 Yen/ person and was not disappointed! This place is... More

We went here after seeing it was number one in Kyoto in tripadvisor. It was very difficult to find, and google maps has the address wrong. In the end we asked our hotel concierge where to find it.  The place is fairly small, with hot plates at each table setting for the meat to be cooked for you. We had... More

Been to Japan a few times and this place is a must. Really cosy, friendly atmosphere. Try and get a table at the bar if you can (mainly couples though). The chef/owner speaks perfect English (he lived in US for 16 years). We got the menu for about 3,500 Yen which was amazing (a bit too much food though). Chef... More

After two weeks of delicious eating in Japan, Issian Pontocho still managed to out do the rest. The food was exceptionally good and the service was excellent. The owner and chef creates a friendly and fun environment. He is interested in knowing about where you come from as he himself has spent time in the US and Japan as a... More

Went on tour-guide recommendation, no regrets. Ken, the friendly and charismatic chef cooked for us at the main "bar", shellfish, fish, meat and vegetable courses on the stone grill. Ken included some interesting spices which worked well. Eclectic background music and conversation with other guests were appreciated, Meal for two with plenty of drinks approx. 10K yen. One of many... More

This was the best place I ate out at while in Kyoto. The food was good - perhaps 4 or 4.5 out of five but adding in the fun factor of cooking it yourself on the hot plates plus more importantly the fact that Ken is such a good, welcoming and attentive host pushes that up to a full five... More

when I was searching for a nice restaurant to bring my wife in my honeymoon trip to Kyoto, I found this restaurant review in tripadvisor. Since it's just 5 minutes walk from my hotel so I thinking to give it a try. The chef is very friendly and explained in details for all the different kind of chicken + seafood... More