Tabelog ratingNonkiya Mune (呑喜屋むね) is an intimate, family-run izakaya that feels like a discovery in the backstreets of Kyoto. Housed in a traditional townhouse with a view of a small inner garden (tsuboniwa), the experience is centred on the 12-seat counter where a husband-and-wife team host their guests. The main draw is the daily handwritten menu, which transforms top-quality seasonal ingredients, especially seafood, into creative and refined izakaya plates.
Guests consistently praise the exceptional quality of the cooking. The sashimi platter, which reviewers recently priced around ¥2,750, is a highlight, featuring excellent maguro, shima-aji, and seasonal hamo. Other much-talked-about dishes include the light and crispy tempura (with kuruma-ebi prawns or young ayu fish), a tender beef steak or cutlet, and surprisingly delicious smaller plates like crab-cream croquettes and a simple garlic and lettuce stir-fry. Many diners note the pleasure of watching the chef work and the warm, attentive service from the couple who run the place.
Be aware that this is a step up from a casual pub, both in quality and price. A typical dinner costs between ¥8,000 and ¥10,000 per person, with one party of three reporting a bill of around ¥28,000. Most agree the price is justified by the high-quality ingredients and generous portions. The restaurant is very small and popular, so seats fill up fast. Some dishes and drinks, like draft beer, can also sell out during the evening.
- Reservations: Essential. The 12-seat counter fills up quickly, so book well in advance.
- Menu: The menu is handwritten daily in Japanese, but an English menu is also available. Staff are welcoming, though spoken English is limited.
- Location: A short walk from Marutamachi Station.
- Payment: Accepts JCB and AMEX credit cards and electronic money. However, reports suggest it is wise to bring some cash as well.
- Seating: All seating is at a 12-person counter.
- Smoking: A designated smoking area is available.
- Parking: No parking is available.
