A 5-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station, Kyoto and turn a corner from Hanamikoji Street to find the curtains of "Yukifuran Sato" hanging surreptitiously from the side of the building. The owner is well-versed in tea ceremony and antiques. He set up this tranquil space with eight counter seats to serve his customers with carefully made dishes created with seasonal ingredients. The owner’s handling of ingredients and purposeful use of tableware has given this restaurant a reputation for exquisite Japanese cuisine.
In addition to studying Japanese wood architecture in university, owner Koichi Sato also dabbled in the tea ceremony. Through this, he was able to deepen his interest in Japanese culture and cuisine. He forged his path in cooking after graduation and spent 6 years in Arashiyama’s Kappo Okina (closed), and 2 years training in kaiseki restaurant Wako (closed) in Mejiro, Tokyo. In 2013, he opened "Yukifuran Sato" in Gion, Kyoto.
“Beauty is a given. I aim for something that goes beyond beauty; that craving for a certain dish when the season comes around, or want to tell people how delicious something was” expresses Sato. In early summer, he uses wild ayu fish from Miyamacho or Kamikatsura. Seasonal ingredients are carefully selected to create dishes that leave an impression. Moreover, the combination of dishes and tableware are conscientiously thought out to maintain the rhythm of the entire course. Whether it’s glazed porcelain, earthenware, or glass, an assortment of tableware is used to highlight the dishes and delight the eyes and taste buds of the diners. The restaurant also offers 5 to 10 types each of Japanese sake and wine so that customers can select their favorite drinks.
The restaurant is decorated with curios from antique shops including a book by national treasure Shoji Hamada. It has a unique and comfortable atmosphere. The restaurant’s unique name, "Yukifuran" is derived from Japanese words meaning “a retreat where happiness rains down.” It embodies Sato’s sincerity towards his customers. It’s a great place for epicureans, business dinners, dates, and special occasions with the family. Spend an exquisite time in a great space with great dishes.
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* The availability of an English version of this page does not guarantee that the restaurant can provide services in English unless otherwise stated. Please be aware that, even if stated, there may still be days when English speaking staff are unavailable.
【Access】
■A 5-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station (Keihan Line)
■A 15-minute walk from Sanjo Keihan Station(Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line)