Tabelog ratingLocated in the scenic Arashiyama district of Kyoto, Unagiya Hirokawa (うなぎ屋 廣川) is a long-standing specialist in Kanto-style unagi (eel). The process involves steaming then grilling the eel, a method celebrated for producing an exceptionally fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture beneath a crisped skin. Reviewers consistently praise this signature fluffiness and the restrained, not-too-sweet tare sauce that lacquers the fish.
Beyond the classic unaju (eel over rice), guests often enjoy the course menus which may include sides like uzaku (vinegared eel and cucumber) and kimosui (clear soup with eel liver). Other notable dishes mentioned in reviews are the delicate koi no arai (carp sashimi) and grilled eel liver skewers (kimo-yaki). Many diners appreciate the views of the garden and the traditional house setting.
However, the experience can be inconsistent. Several visitors, both Japanese and international, report brusque or unaccommodating service, and there are multiple accounts of non-Japanese guests feeling they were given less desirable seating. Long waits, even with a reservation, are also a recurring theme, as are occasional comments on small portions or finding fine bones in the eel.
Expect to spend around ¥6,000–¥7,999 for lunch or dinner. Reviewers recently paid between ¥3,900 and ¥5,300 for a standard Unaju (Ume), with premium sets costing ¥5,400–¥6,900. A Unaju Teishoku Sakura set was reported at around ¥6,900. For unagi lovers seeking this specific fluffy, steamed-and-grilled style, it's a worthwhile indulgence, but the variable service makes it more of a special-occasion gamble than a guaranteed great meal.
- Booking: Reservations are mandatory and must be made online, often a month in advance for popular times. A deposit of around ¥3,000 per person is typically required and applied to your final bill.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 7-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station or a 3-minute walk from Keifuku Electric Railway's Arashiyama Station.
- Payment: Visa, Master, JCB, AMEX, and Diners cards are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Seating: There are 67 seats, including counter, tatami, and sunken seating. Private rooms are available.
- Practical Notes: The restaurant is entirely non-smoking. Parking for 15 cars is available. Some diners note a policy against video recording, though food photos are generally permitted.
