Ryori Kawaguchi (料理 川口) Kyoto

Located about a 5-7 minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line, this exclusive Japanese restaurant is tucked away in a quiet alley on the southern side of Gion. With its address and phone number kept private, and a strict no-photo policy for dishes, this restaurant is a hidden gem that is hard to access. Chef Kawaguchi, originally from Tokyo, manages this luxurious space with only six counter seats, providing a unique dining experience with just one seating per night. "Omakase Course"- Abalone and Zucchini- Mackerel Sushi- Whale and Ichijiku (fig)- Caviar, Okra, Kuruma Shrimp, Torigai (bird shell), and Jellyfish in Jelly- Grilled Hamo (pike eel)- Hamo Roe and Ginkgo Rice- Fried Bachi (a type of fish) and Hamo- Hairy Crab Cake- Sweetfish Porridge- Fried Sweetfish Bones with Sweet Vinegar Sauce- Shark Fin and Eggplant- Unagi (grilled eel) Rice BowlSince photography of the dishes is strictly prohibited, guests can fully immerse themselves in the beauty and flavors of each dish, creating a luxurious and memorable experience. The dishes crafted by the chef are highly original and sophisticated, breaking away from traditional Kyoto cuisine. The combinations of ingredients showcase a refined sense of taste, resulting in a simple yet stunning presentation that surprises with its rich flavors and contrasting textures upon the first bite. While the system may seem intimidating, Chef Kawaguchi is very friendly and approachable, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the exquisite dishes paired with wonderful wines and Japanese sake. This elusive space is one that can only be reached with the help of regulars, but it is undoubtedly a remarkable restaurant that lives up to its reputation, with meticulous attention to detail in every aspect. Thank you for reading to the end, from the reviewer "Instagram@_1show." I appreciate all your likes, follows, and saves for this restaurant. Less

I often wondered if there would ever be a day when I could visit this place. I never expected to come at this timing! Thank you to the organizer! Before coming, I imagined what kind of dishes would be served and what the chef would be like, but everything exceeded my expectations! The chef's personality was simply wonderful, and despite it being my first visit, I had such a great time! The food was delicious, and the wine brought by the organizer was fantastic, making it feel like a heavenly experience. I hope to visit again soon! ^ ^ Less

I had a delightful dining experience in the charming atmosphere created by Chef Kawaguchi's wonderful personality.- Abalone, Maiko, White Asparagus, Whale Bacon - Steamed Rice, Shark Fin, Snap Peas, Shiso - Junsai, Hiroshima, Kuruma Ebi, Sweet Shrimp, Fried Eggplant - Corn Tempura, Yuba - Vinegared Rice, Tuna Kama, Purple Sea Urchin, Maiko - Sweetfish, White Yam Stalk, Soba-ju - Squid, Hamo, Seared - Sweetfish, Kara-age, Sweet Vinegar Sauce, Manganji Green Pepper - Tiger Fish and Yuba with Ponzu - Eel with Rice - Pineapple, Mango Less