On my last day in Kyoto, I had lunch at Hassun in Gion. After enjoying a light Italian course the night before, I was looking for a place that offers a lunch course different from the dinner menu. I was drawn to Hassun for its beautiful presentation and charming atmosphere, so I made a reservation. The restaurant has 12 counter seats, and the warm, aged wood creates a welcoming environment for guests.● Chilled Chawanmushi with Iwanori The first dish was a refreshing chilled chawanmushi, perfect for the warming season. The gentle sweetness of the egg contrasts beautifully with the ocean flavor of the Iwanori seaweed.● Hassun with Octopus, Nishiki Egg, and Broad Beans Each carefully arranged item reflects the restaurant's sincere approach to cooking and love for its ingredients. A truly beautiful plate, embodying the restaurant's name.● Sashimi with Striped Horse Mackerel and Sea Bream The striped horse mackerel at this time of year is rich and firm, making it delicious.● Soup with Isaki, Flower Pepper, Mochi, and Fuki I believe a restaurant's skill can be judged by its soup. This one has a clear, refined flavor with a subtle yet strong presence. The aroma of seasonal flower pepper is delightful.● Shin-da Maki (a new dish for me) Shin-da Maki is made by rolling vegetables, meat, fish paste, and tofu in opened fried tofu and simmering it in dashi. The flavor of the dashi seeps into the dish, bringing a smile to my face with its deliciousness.● Salad with Kogomi, Aiko, Shidoke, Chicken Breast, and Sesame A dish that evokes the feeling of spring.● Fried Carp in Yuuan Style A light fried dish to conclude the meal. The crispy coating and the mild flavor of the carp balance each other well, though the carp itself might be a bit too bland.● Dessert: Grapefruit The half grapefruit is prepared so that the flesh easily separates, making it stress-free to enjoy. The fun presentation includes squeezing the juice at the end.Overall, the dishes were not flashy but showcased seasonal ingredients and the chef's delicate techniques, leaving a lasting impression. The service was friendly, with staff engaging in conversations about the food and casual topics, creating a relaxed atmosphere for first-time visitors. This lovely Japanese restaurant allows you to enjoy the meal in a warm and inviting setting rather than in silence. It was a great meal!
We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.
