Tabelog ratingRyoriya Maekawa (料理屋まえかわ) offers a modern, playful take on traditional Japanese course dining, led by a chef trained at Kyoto's legendary Gion Sasaki (さゝ木). The experience is built on classical techniques, but with bold, cross-cultural touches that make each dish a surprise. The restaurant is known for its intimate counter setting, where guests can watch the chefs plate each course with precision.
Reviewers consistently praise the deep, clean flavour of the dashi and the thoughtful progression of the seasonal menu. Inventive dishes are a highlight, with past guests celebrating plates like a rich corn pudding (tōmorokoshi purin), fried cod milt (unko furai), a delicate tilefish soup (amadai no owan), and classic saba sushi. The meal's ritual finale is a signature: a large clay pot of steamed rice, or donabe (土鍋), served with 7-8 house-made condiments like XO sauce, simmered beef shigureni, and seasoned salmon roe for guests to mix and enjoy to their liking. The meal concludes with a trio of impressive from-scratch desserts, such as Basque-style cheesecake and kinako pudding.
The only recurring critiques are minor and related to its popularity: the small room can feel lively and occasionally noisy, and booking a seat is very difficult, often requiring months of advance planning. The drink selection is sometimes noted as being less remarkable than the food.
Despite the high-end price point, reviewers unanimously consider it excellent value. Lunch courses are typically around ¥10,000–¥14,999, while dinner is ¥20,000–¥29,999. Guests recently paid around ¥11,000 for the seasonal lunch omakase and ¥22,000 for dinner, with many calling the lunch an exceptional deal for the quality and craftsmanship on display.
- Booking: Reservations are mandatory and must be made by phone, often months in advance.
- Getting There: Located in Kyoto, a 10-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line (Exit 2).
- Seating: The main dining area has 10 counter seats. There is also a private room for 4-8 people on the second floor. Service for each seating begins simultaneously.
- Payments: Credit cards are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Smoking: The restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking is available.
