Daitokuji Ikkyu

Unclaimed

My husband and I dined at Daitokuji Ikkyu last night, and it was a truly incredible, one-of-a-kind experience in a beautiful historic setting. The food, though seemingly simple, was deeply flavorful and really honored the local ingredients within. We were served by the most wonderfully kind woman who made us feel so welcome, and was able to explain each element of the meal to us in English. We would highly highly recommend this place to anyone with an interest in trying traditional vegetarian food.

What a wonderful dining experience - we were treated to a private buddhist vegetarian meal with beautiful taste combinations and three different types of tea. It felt more like dining in a traditional Japanese home than a restaurant, overlooking a Zen garden. The hosts’ hospitability was outstanding (even according to Japanese standards). Cannot recommend this enough if you want a really special dining experience. We reserved two days in advance.

Incredibly authentic and tasty experience. Ensure that you learn beforehand about certain customs and are very respectful to the host (no shoes etc, bow three times when you leave). Lovely and friendly staff that run the place and every dish is so thoughtfully prepared.

Such an incredible place, we ended up eating there at lunch today, purely by luck. We had our own private room with view on the garden and the best meal we've had so far in Kyoto (and vegetarian on top of that). Our hosts were truly charming and the different teas accompanying the dinner were perfect.

The go-to place to experience a Buddhist vegetarian meal in Kyoto - a very creative meal which elevated vegetables and tofu in clever/unique ways. The atmosphere is beautiful (zen garden view), but most notably - the hosts are incredibly hospitable (as others have any noted): so kind and so gracious, explaining every item within a dish in detail and wanting to ensure that every part of the experience was perfect. Call to book in advance (best bet is to get your hotel/place of stay to do so).