Kyoto, Japan｜Hyotei

Nothing to complaint, great food, great service and great atmosphere. One of the best Japanese restaurant I been to.

There’s this old saying in Kyoto, Ichigensan Okotowari (1st time customers without introductions not accept) still being practiced, especially the long-established businesses (Shinise) & it’s OK to respect their custom It may seem troublesome, but it’s best to get hotel to do the reservations. Then the Japanese spirit of hospitality (Omotenashi) will follow We asked hotel to book a private room for 3 & specified “no foreigner menu”. Meaning no shortened menu & must have the Hassun, which is the most difficult dish to prepare & explain We got the whole dining hall to ourselves. The Head Chef Omakase 12 courses + some. Served by the Okamisan. And the Oyakata came out to see us off in our taxi till we were out of sight It was an excellent dinner

Please note the star rating is in proportion to each respectively. Giving 4 star means it’s less than 5 but does not mean it’s bad or less that regular 5 star ration. It get less simply not all dishes were served by single staff . Chop sticks were not kept even/parallel and noise of placing item on table is not 100% silent. Yes, I had been spoiled. The service is very very good. Just not flawless perfection. The atmosphere got a star off because I just witness a guest falls on slippery stone path with formal suit on. Probably leather shoes are too slippery or too much drink. The fish in near by pond are beautiful. The small garden and ancient rooms shows history. Lastly, the food were well cooked with generous portion and very good quality. Every aspect pass 5 star mark but the food is superior than other factors. By the way, fruits are also served with big portion and this is rare. The sweet is excellent and the last dish matcha is very very high quality and taste. Thumbs up but please exercise before enjoy their meal.