Biryani Senmon Ten INDIA GATE: Creative Kyoto-Style Biryani

Biryani Senmon Ten INDIA GATE offers a unique, Kyoto-style take on biryani from a tiny, eight-seat counter. The specialty that draws crowds is a creative fusion: fluffy basmati rice infused with Japanese dashi (broth), most famously in the signature sea-bream dashi chicken biryani (鯛出汁チキンビリヤニ). The result is a lighter, more aromatic dish than its traditional counterparts.

Diners consistently praise the perfectly cooked, airy texture of the rice and the inventive flavour combinations. The mutton biryani is also popular, and many opt for the half-and-half plate to try two varieties. The meal is served with unusual but well-regarded accompaniments like mapo tofu, wasabi raita, and various pickles. The concise drink list, featuring lassi, craft beers, and sake pairings, also receives positive mentions.

However, the experience comes with significant caveats. The space is extremely small, and service is frequently described by reviewers as brusque or rude, with some non-Japanese visitors reporting feeling unwelcome. The restaurant's popularity means it often sells out of food early, and there are occasional reports of lukewarm portions or visible staff tension in the open kitchen.

For the quality and creativity of the food, it represents good value. Reviewers in 2024–2026 paid around ¥1,700–¥1,900 for a half-and-half plate, and about ¥1,400 for a single biryani. Lunch typically costs ¥1,000–¥1,999, with dinner and drinks pushing the total towards ¥2,999.

• Getting There: The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from Hankyu Karasuma Station and is also near Shijo Subway Station.
• Reservations: Walk-in only; reservations are not accepted. Arrive early, especially for the first service of the day, as queues form and dishes sell out quickly.
• Seating: There are only 8 counter seats.
• Payment: The restaurant officially accepts credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex) and PayPay. However, as some visitors have reported being told it is cash-only, it is wise to bring cash just in case.
• Language: An English menu is available, but service is primarily in Japanese. Some visitors have found the staff's manner to be blunt.
• Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
• Parking: No parking is available for cars or bicycles.