Tabelog ratingGibier Miyama (Gibier MIYAMA) offers a singular dining experience in Kyoto's Gion district, centred on high-end game (gibier) from the nearby Miyama region. The restaurant is built around an intimate, 10-seat U-shaped counter where the chef prepares a succession of dishes in full view of the guests. The format is unusual: a fixed price covers four initial plated courses, after which diners can order freely and unlimitedly from a menu of around 30 different small plates showcasing various game and cooking techniques.
Reviewers consistently praise the quality and sheer variety of the game on offer. Standout dishes include bear tartare and a miniature bear hamburger, deer roast and cutlets (katsuretsu), char-grilled pheasant, and boar spring rolls. The house-made bread, served with a distinctive smoked butter, is mentioned as a highlight by almost every visitor, as are the seasonal mountain vegetables (sansai) and the chef's thoughtful wine pairings.
Diners should be prepared for a leisurely, and sometimes slow, evening. Many reviews note that service can become chaotic during busy periods, with long waits between dishes, stretching the meal to three hours or more. Some guests find the four opening dishes and bread so filling that they have little room for the main à la carte phase. A few also mentioned the dining room could feel cold. While rare, there have been serious reports of billing discrepancies, so it is wise to check your bill carefully.
The experience comes at a premium. The fixed-price course has been reported in the ¥28,000 to ¥33,000 range, with a 5% service charge on top. For example, one recent bill was ¥32,340 per person. With drinks, the total cost often lands around ¥36,000 per person. For those who want to sample a wide array of rare, expertly sourced game, it is considered good value; for those seeking a perfectly polished, fast-paced service, perhaps less so.
- Getting There: Gibier Miyama is a 5-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station.
- Booking: The restaurant is by reservation only and seats are hard to get. Booking well in advance via the restaurant's website or by phone is essential. A 100% cancellation fee applies for same-day cancellations.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Seating: There are 10 counter seats. The entire restaurant can be booked for private parties.
- Children: School-age children are welcome. For children under 10, you must contact the restaurant by phone in advance.
- Menus: An English menu is available.
- Service Charge: A 5% service charge is added to the bill.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking is available.
