Kyoto, Japan｜Ginpuku

This is a cozy restaurant with tatami available upstairs and a friendly owner. We got a nice view of the parking lot with cherry blossoms. It was very peaceful. We ordered two sets with herring rice and soba noodles. The herring rice was really nice and not fishy at all, with a touch of sweetness. I enjoyed both dishes and this was a very well priced food considering how big of a portion it is. They don't take cards, so just make sure you have enough cash. I definitely recommend this restaurant. Thank you for the food.

This is just the most splendid little restaurant, and my family and I are so happy we stopped by. They’ve this specialty—herring soba (にしんそば if you’re curious and looking at the menu)—that I’ve never had anywhere else, and it was fantastic. The prices are insanely low given the quality of food and the service you receive. The proprietress is very kind! I had the seasonal set, with a small nishin-don added extra, and it really just goes without telling that everything was absolutely perfect. If you’re looking for an incredibly authentic Japanese experience—take those shoes off at the door, young man—near the Ginkaku-ji, this is your place. Please stop by, and give the nice couple that runs it a smile or two when you do.

Perfect everything at this restaurant. Great food, fantastic service at such a great price. Never thought herring could taste this good. They added the perfect amount of flavor to hide the fishiness and highlight the best parts of the fish. Definitely the highlight of this place. And of course the soba is nothing to scoff at either. 10/10.