Dinner at Oryori Hayashi (御料理 はやし)

Dinner at Oryori Hayashi (御料理 はやし)

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I visited Oryori Hayashi for dinner with my mother on a Sunday. I had previously been here for lunch, but this was my first time for dinner. We chose the counter seats. The restaurant is about a 10-minute walk from Demachiyanagi Station, located on a quiet street just one block away from the main road. It offers a peaceful atmosphere, allowing us to enjoy our meal away from the hustle and bustle of tourist spots.**Omakase Kaede** JPY 21,780 This is a 10-course meal centered around seasonal conger eel. A 10% service charge is added separately. Considering the quality of the meal served at the counter in Kyoto, the price feels quite reasonable. The dishes are not flashy but focus on carefully enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. The meal is structured to satisfy through honest craftsmanship rather than gimmicks.The conger eel reflects the season and changes in character with each preparation. Because it is a delicate ingredient, the differences in cooking methods, broth, cutting style, and accompanying ingredients become apparent. Throughout the meal, the focus is on refining the ingredients without overpowering their natural contours. This is not a restaurant that pushes strong flavors, allowing us to enjoy the meal without fatigue from start to finish.The advantage of the counter seats is significant. We could watch the chef's knife skills and plating right in front of us. There is minimal waste in the preparation, allowing us to focus on each dish. While there is also joy in dining in a private room, the counter is ideal for those who want to fully appreciate the food itself. Choosing the counter again this time was definitely the right decision.The dishes and presentation also reflect the essence of Kyoto. We could enjoy the meal not only through taste but also visually. The use of negative space, arrangement of ingredients, and compatibility with the tableware are beautiful, creating a quiet tension in the flow of the meal. Rather than showcasing opulence, the restaurant impresses with its attention to detail.The ambiance is pleasant. The interior features various antiques and art, providing enjoyment during waiting times and between courses. It is clean and has a dignified atmosphere. There is a calmness that makes it easy to focus on the food without feeling overly formal. It is a space suited for adult dining.The head chef is a quiet, skilled artisan. This is not a place that relies on friendliness to create a lively atmosphere; it is a restaurant that competes through its cuisine. The service from the proprietress is also good, maintaining a balanced distance throughout the restaurant. The emphasis is placed on quietly savoring the food rather than on detailed explanations or photo opportunities. It embodies the charm of a traditional restaurant, which is part of its appeal.There is no Wi-Fi or power outlets. Since the focus is on the meal, I did not find this inconvenient. Payment is accepted by credit card, but only JCB and AMEX. It is advisable to check in advance due to the limited card options. There is one restroom, which is kept very clean.Compared to other Kyoto Japanese restaurants in the same price range, the satisfaction level is high, considering the quality of ingredients, tableware, ambiance, and the experience at the counter. This place is more suited for those who wish to quietly savor authentic Japanese cuisine rather than those seeking flashy service or clear presentations. It is also appropriate for dining with my mother, and I left wanting to return. I highly recommend this restaurant for those who want to thoughtfully engage with the food on a special night.

9 / 10