Wagyu is one of Japan’s finest culinary treasures and renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, savory flavor. Kyoto is home to many restaurants where you can indulge in this premium ingredient as part of a luxurious yet affordable lunch. In this article, we’ll introduce three standout spots in Kyoto serving wagyu lunches at reasonable prices. They all have a unique charm and are an ideal stop during your sightseeing adventures. Let these recommendations make your trip to Kyoto even more special.
With its delicate marbling and exquisite flavor, wagyu has captivated food lovers across the globe. Opting for wagyu at lunch offers a more affordable way than dinner to enjoy this gourmet delight. Kyoto takes this experience to another level with its focus on locally-sourced ingredients and unique settings, such as beautifully renovated townhouses (machiya) steeped in history. Here, you can enjoy a perfect blend of indulgence, Japanese food culture, and the traditional charm of Kyoto, all in one sitting.
Yakiniku Horumon On the Rice
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260601/26035139/)
Located in Kyoto’s Fushimi Ward, “Yakiniku Horumon On the Rice” is a newly renovated yakiniku restaurant that reopened in December 2023. As the name suggests, the restaurant is centered on the concept of enjoying high-quality meats served over steaming hot rice. Its bungalow-like exterior, complete with a wooden deck, exudes a stylish yet welcoming vibe.
The restaurant takes great pride in its selection of beef, rice, and eggs. The menu features top-tier cuts such as Saroma beef short ribs, paired with rice sourced from regions known for their pristine water, and fresh, vitamin-rich eggs. Highlights include their signature grilled meats served with freshly steamed rice and a delectable egg-topped rice bowl that promises to leave diners completely satisfied.
Inside, the restaurant offers spacious seating with excellent ventilation. There’s even a pet-friendly outdoor terrace and a VIP private room, making it a versatile option for families, friends, or pet owners. With an impressive lineup of craft beers and Japanese sake, this spot ensures a perfectly rounded dining experience.
Getting there is easy — it’s just a 5-minute walk from Ryukoku Daigaku-mae Fukakusa Station on the Keihan Main Line. Parking is also available, making it a convenient choice for both locals and travelers exploring the area.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260601/26035139/)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260601/26035139/)
Gion Nikutei Shin
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26033192/)
Tucked away along the cobblestone streets of Kyoto’s Gion district, “Gion Nikutei Shin” is a meat specialty restaurant housed in a renovated traditional townhouse over 100 years old. The space is brimming with Kyoto’s timeless elegance, complete with a tranquil garden where the beautiful landscape transforms from day to night. Whether you’re here for sightseeing, a business lunch, or a special occasion, the serene ambiance adds an extra touch of sophistication.
The highlight of the menu is the Omi beef kaiseki course, featuring premium wagyu from Shiga Prefecture. For lunch, the limited-time Omi beef hitsumabushi is a must-try. This dish is available only on weekends and holidays and features charcoal-grilled beef served with a special house-made sauce. It’s a luxurious yet approachable meal that will undoubtedly become a highlight of your Kyoto visit.
At the counter seats, you can watch skilled chefs artfully prepare each dish right before your eyes, offering a sensory dining experience. Access is also convenient, just a 4-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station or a 7-minute walk from Sanjo Station.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26033192/)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26033192/)
Niku to Niwa Matsuo
(Source.1:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260501/26036783/)
For a hidden gem with a touch of Kyoto’s serene beauty, head to “Niku to Niwa Matsuo,” located in the Kamigyo Ward. This wagyu restaurant reopened in the summer of 2023 and is set in a lovingly refurbished one-story house. Situated just a 3-minute walk from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, it’s the perfect stop during a day of sightseeing.
The star of the menu is the Japanese Black Wagyu Steak Box, featuring tender, slow-cooked beef that melts in your mouth. Complemented by dishes like beef tendon simmered in Kyoto’s signature white miso and locally sourced pickles, the meals are a true celebration of Kyoto’s culinary traditions. Diners can choose from several portion sizes to suit their appetite, with dessert included for a satisfying finish.
The restaurant also boasts a stunning garden maintained by a renowned Kyoto gardener. The changing seasonal scenery provides a soothing backdrop for your meal. For an even more intimate experience, the counter seats allow guests to enjoy the garden view while interacting with the chef.
Getting there is straightforward - an 8-minute walk from Kitano Hakubaicho Station or a 2-minute walk from the Kamishichiken bus stop. Nearby parking is also available, making it convenient to visit by car.
(Source.2:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260501/26036783/)
(Source.3:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260501/26036783/)
Conclusion
For those seeking an unforgettable wagyu lunch in Kyoto, these three restaurants each offer something unique. Enjoy the stylish yakiniku experience at Yakiniku Horumon On the Rice, the refined flavors of Omi beef at Gion Nikutei Shin, and the serene ambiance of Niku to Niwa Matsuo.
Take a moment to indulge during your travels and immerse yourself in the exquisite flavors of wagyu while soaking in Kyoto’s charm. A visit to any of these establishments will surely enhance your Kyoto memories, leaving you with a taste of both its culinary excellence and cultural heritage.
