An Unforgettable Culinary Experience at Kikunoi Honten
Today, I want to share my most favourite restaurant in Kyoto.
Kikunoi Honten (菊乃井 本店), one of Kyoto’s most esteemed kaiseki restaurants.
With a legacy spanning over a century, this Michelin three-star restaurant is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, seasonal ingredients, and exquisite presentation.
My parents and I visited for the first time in January 2023, and we loved it so much that we came back again this January for lunch.
Once we entered the restaurant, there were people waiting for us at the front entrance, and they guided us to our room. Each group gets their own room to enjoy the experience.
This is the 10 courses lunch menu.
Since we visited the restaurant in January, they gave us Ume-Kobu cha (plum and seaweed tea) and Japanese sake to celebrate the New Year tradition before the first course.
In Kyoto, There’s a Law: Kanpai with Japanese Sake
In the heart of Kyoto, tradition runs deep, and one charming custom you’ll encounter is the practice of kanpai (cheers) with Japanese sake. While not a literal law, this cultural norm is a delightful part of social gatherings and celebrations in this historic city. Sake, often referred to as nihonshu, is more than just a beverage; it’s a symbol of hospitality and respect.
Hassun (八寸) is a traditional Japanese course served in kaiseki cuisine, which is a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. The term "hassun" translates to "eight sun," referring to the traditional unit of measurement in Japan.
Maguro (Red Tuna) and Akashi-snapper sashimi were absolutely delightful. The freshness and quality of the fish were amazing.
I had soft-shelled turtle for the first time, and it was truly a remarkable experience. The soup, paired with the delicate flavor of Kujo green onion, beautifully complemented the soft-shelled turtle.
Sawara (鰆): Japanese Spanish Mackerel
The presentation of this dish was beautiful, perfectly complementing the exquisite flavour of the fish. I am obsessed with the yellow plate.
This dish was undoubtedly my favourite among the ten courses.
This dish is Kamonabe (鴨鍋) which is a traditional Japanese dish featuring thinly sliced duck simmered in a flavourful broth with Kujo Green Onions.
The final dish was Ikura-Mushimeshi (いくら飯蒸し), a delightful combination of salmon roe served with steamed rice, accompanied by a selection of Japanese pickles on the side. Once again, it was an absolute delight to the palate.
Dessert featuring seasonal fruits, strawberries.
At the very end, to complete the course, they served Matcha along with a small Manju.
The serene view of a small zen garden from our room added an extra layer of relaxation to the entire dining experience.
Every aspect of our experience at this restaurant was truly unforgettable. From the impeccable service to the exquisite food and the overall dining experience, every detail was worth every penny spent.
I can't wait to return when I'm in Kyoto again, as this restaurant has left a lasting impression that I'll cherish for years to come.