I met up with some friends in Kyoto last time I was there and they took me to this spot called Iyemon Salon Atelier Kyoto for lunch. It had been a while since I had a meal in a restaurant with a fancy and traditional feel so it felt really special.
There were four of us and we were seated in a private room. The service was great. The menu items all sounded delicious, and healthy. It was a great way to escape the summer heat and get away from the crowds for a nice slow lunch.
If you’re looking for a place to chill with friends over excellent food in a relaxed environment, I would highly recommend stopping by Iyemon Salon Atelier Kyoto. If I’m ever in Kyoto with some foodie non-Japanese friends I’ll be sure to take them. It’s close enough to the main tourist run in Kyoto to be convenient, but fancy and set back just enough to feel special. This photo is a bit dark but you can see other images of their food on the links that follow. Yum!
Access: You’ve got maps on your phone. The address is below. Know that you can walk there from Kawaramachi in about 10 minutes. I’m sure your phone will give you other routes to access the restaurant as well.
Website: http://www.cafecompany.co.jp/brands/iyemonsalon/atelier-kyoto/
Address: 481-1 KIyoicho Yasaka Tori Mae Sagaru | Chiso Bdg 1F, Higashiyama, Kyoto 604-8166, Kyoto Prefecture+81 75-744-6451