Tabelog ratingSalon de Royal Kyoto ten (サロン・ド・ロワイヤル 京都店) is the elegant Kyoto flagship of a chocolatier with roots stretching back to 1935. What makes it a destination is not just the chocolate but the setting: a stylish, glass-fronted salon with seats overlooking the Kamo River, including a seasonal open-air terrace (known as a kawadoko) for an exceptional riverside experience. The café is also the only place to try the house-specialty ‘Pecan Nut Chocolat Kakigori’, a finely textured shaved ice made from their own chocolate.
Guests consistently praise the quality across the board, from the individual bonbon chocolates and pecan-chocolate products to the cakes and macarons. The Montblanc is a frequently cited favorite. Reviewers love the delicate, melt-in-the-mouth texture of the kakigori, which is served with a hot chocolate sauce for contrast. International visitors particularly note the friendly and patient staff, who often provide free samples and use translation apps to help with ordering.
The main criticisms relate to the cost, with several visitors finding it a little pricey for the portion sizes. Popular cakes and bonbons can also sell out, so it's best to arrive earlier in the day if you have a specific item in mind. The entrance is tucked down a long, narrow alley off Kiyamachi street and can be easy to miss. Some reviewers also reported a mandatory drink order or minimum charge of around ¥1,000 for those dining in.
Expect to spend around ¥1,000–¥1,999. Reviewers recently paid approximately ¥2,000 for the signature chocolate kakigori (served from 14:30 onwards), ¥1,100 for teas, and around ¥370 for a single bonbon chocolate. While not a budget stop, most feel the high quality and unique riverside setting provide good value for a special treat.
- Getting There: The salon is a short walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station (Kyoto City Hall). The entrance is down a long, narrow alley and can be hard to spot, so follow your map closely.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are welcome. Reservations are accepted for weekdays for groups of up to six people and may be required for the seasonal river terrace (May–September).
- Age Restriction: Children under 3 years of age are not permitted in the café. Strollers are not allowed inside the store.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) and QR code payments are accepted. Electronic money is not accepted.
- Good to Know: Take-out is available. The signature chocolate kakigori is only served from approximately 14:30. Be prepared for a possible minimum charge for dine-in service. The entire establishment is non-smoking. No parking is available.
