Tabelog ratingMASHIRO (真白) offers a theatrical dining experience at an 11-seat counter in Kyoto, helmed by Chef Hiroyuki Koshimo. The focus is on a single, highly creative tasting menu of modern French cuisine deeply rooted in Japanese seasonality and ingredients. Guests sit front-row as the chef and his team plate each course, including signature moments like a delicate sea urchin (uni) amuse-bouche, a striking all-green dish of varying temperatures and textures called 'Midori' (緑), and fish courses dramatically finished over straw or fire.
Reviewers consistently praise the impeccable quality of the cooking, especially the fish courses featuring seasonal catches like tachiuo (cutlassfish) and kinmedai (splendid alfonsino). The live-baked bread, inventive wine and non-alcoholic pairings curated by an attentive sommelier, and the warm, English-capable hospitality also receive high marks. Many guests feel the experience is worthy of a Michelin star and plan return visits.
Criticism is rare but pointed. One reviewer reported a serious lapse where an allergy noted on the booking was not respected. Others have noted that the restaurant is strict about late arrivals and can be difficult to reach by phone. While overwhelmingly positive, a few diners have found an occasional dish to be slightly overcooked or restrained.
For the quality, MASHIRO is considered excellent value, particularly the lunch. Reviewers in 2024–2026 paid approximately ¥13,000–¥14,300 for the lunch tasting menu. Dinner is typically in the ¥20,000–¥29,999 range per person. A wine pairing costs around ¥11,000, with one example bill reaching ¥29,040 with extras.
- Booking: Reservations are essential and must be made well in advance. Both lunch and dinner services begin at a set time for all guests simultaneously.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 4-minute walk from Karasuma Oike Station (Exit 5) or Karasuma Station (Exit 21).
- Seating: Seating is limited to 11 seats at the counter.
- Payments: Credit cards are accepted. A 10% service charge applies. Electronic money and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Allergies & Dietary Needs: Note any allergies on your booking and be sure to reconfirm them upon arrival.
- Age Restriction: Children are welcome only if they are 10 years or older and can eat the full adult course menu.
- Dress Code: Smart casual.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
