Halal Wagyu ZEN was one of the best meals I had in Kyoto. The restaurant is small and quiet, tucked near Kyoto City Hall, and the service was honestly 10/10. The staff were so patient and
kind, explaining step by step how to enjoy the sukiyaki properly, from dipping the thin wagyu slices into the broth to mixing it with raw egg for that smooth, rich taste.
The A5 wagyu was incredibly tender and full of flavor, melting the moment it touched the sauce. Every bite felt warm and comforting. The steak set was just as good, grilled perfectly with a
nice char on the outside and soft texture inside. It came with rice, miso soup, and grilled vegetables that balanced the meal nicely.
What made ZEN stand out was how genuine the whole experience felt. It was not just about eating wagyu, it was about slowing down, tasting each layer, and appreciating the care behind
every dish. I would definitely go back again, it is the kind of place that makes you feel both at home and spoiled at the same time.
Wagyu Volcano OAGARI, Arashiyama
We stopped by Wagyu Volcano OAGARI
in Arashiyama and it instantly became
one of our favorite food spots. The
restaurant is known for its signature
wagyu volcano rice bowl, served with perfectly seared slices of wagyu layered around a soft egg yolk that melts into the rice. The presentation alone was
beautiful, but the flavor was even better. Each bite was buttery, rich, and packed with umami. The wagyu was tender and cooked just right, with a touch of smokiness that blended perfectly with the creamy yolk and light sauce. It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy but feels comforting when you eat it.
Nakamura Tokichi, Kyoto
Nakamura Tokichi was one of the cafés we looked forward to visiting in Kyoto,
and it turned out even better than expected. The matcha latte was smooth and
creamy with no hint of bitterness, just a light umami finish that felt balanced
and fresh. The hojicha latte had a soft roasted flavor that was cozy and rich, making it hard to choose which one we liked more. Their matcha tiramisu was beautifully served in a wooden box, layered with fine
matcha powder and soft cream. It was sweet but not heavy, with a clean matcha
taste that lingered gently. Every element felt carefully prepared and perfectly
balanced. For anyone who loves matcha or hojicha, this café is a must-visit in Kyoto! A
place to enjoy simple, well-made flavors that stay with you long after you leave.
