Hyotei (Kyoto, Japan)

Had lunch on sauday at Hyotei bekkan. It was bento and nor worth 7,000yen plus. Food was all cold with less than normal taste. Soba would have been better choice.. This place need improvement. Not only money, also my time during short trip was so wasted.. Hope I could distinguish this kind of touristic place. I was the one who suggested this place to have lunch to my friends and I was super embarrased.. I visited hyotei bekkan(guess it is annex) hope hyotei main restaurents is better than this.

I was a little worried reading some of the other reviews since this was a bit pricey. My worries were pretty unfounded and I left here really, really confused on how someone could have a bad time. The service was incredible. The hostesses were two women who would periodically peak in to see if we had dishes to clear, wanted more to drink or the next course was ready. There was time between each course to breath and chat with my guest which felt very luxurious after hurrying through other meals around the city. The atmosphere is really hard to beat: you are seated at a small table on tatami in the middle of a beautiful garden and koi pond. You can open the windows and it is a truly unique dining experience. I will warn that there were mosquitos when we were there so I'd recommend wearing thick socks and long sleeves and use a little insect repellent if you visit in warmer months. The food was incredible. Every plate had it's own charm and the presentation was quite excellent. I don't speak great Japanese but the hostess was very patient and explained how to eat each dish in some Japanese, a little English and great pantomimes. The dishes were masterfully subtle and unique in texture, flavor and presentation.

Hyotei is clearly more about traditional Kyoto-style kaiseki — extremely light seasoning, subtle flavours, and a very understated approach. I can see how some people may appreciate that, but personally I don’t think I’m used to this style, and it just didn’t work for me. Overall, it may suit people who love very subtle, traditional Kyoto flavours, but for me it wasn’t worth the time or the cost. I wouldn’t return.

Incredible food, incredible experience. As a whole, this is one of the greatest dining experiences we have had in our lives. 10 course Kaiseki meal in a 450 year old Japanese tea garden. My wife and I had dinner in the main building, reservations can be made online on a rolling basis about 90 days in advance. Smaller breakfast and lunch options are also offered. Having food in a private dining room while watching the sunset in the garden is unforgettable. The food was exquisite, not only was it delicious but you can taste and see the culture of Japan in every bite. All the ingredients are local and seasonal. They have an extensive wine and sake list to accompany your meal, along with tea and water. Definitely grab a reservation here for a once in a lifetime experience.