In this article, we introduce five fantastic restaurants where you can enjoy the traditional Japanese dish, shabu-shabu.
Shabu-shabu involves dipping thin slices of meat into a hot broth for a unique texture and flavor.
In this article, we’ll give you valuable insights to enrich your culinary experience in Kyoto.
What is Shabu-Shabu?
Shabu-shabu is one of the most popular hotpot dishes in Japanese cuisine.
It consists of thinly sliced meat and vegetables that are flash boiled in a hot broth, then dipped in sauces such as ponzu or sesame sauce.
Kyoto is known for offering refined flavors and beautiful presentation and boasts many renowned shabu-shabu restaurants.
The five restaurants we introduce here each have unique features and are definitely worth a visit.
Hyoto Shijo Karasuma
(Source:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260202/26002130/dtlphotolst/?smp=2&sby=D&srt=normal&mode=owner)
"Hyoto Shijo Karasuma" is a beloved shabu-shabu restaurant in Kyoto with a nearly 20-year history.
Their signature dish, "dashi shabu", uses tender and sweet pork that melts in your mouth and is enjoyed with a rich broth and fragrant green onions.
The restaurant has private rooms, making it ideal for family gatherings or large groups.
It's also a perfect setting for celebrations and special occasions and welcomes guests with a heartwarming hospitality.
Additionally, they have lunch plans that are easy to enjoy, making it a versatile choice.
Ago-Tsuyu Shabu-Shabu Yamafuku
(Source:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26019742/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)
"Ago-Tsuyu Shabu-Shabu Yamafuku" is a specialty shabu-Shabu restaurant known for its exquisite broth made from "ago", a high-end flying fish from Nagasaki.
The broth, made by expertly grilling the fish to lock in its umami, has a refined and deep flavor.
The restaurant is housed in a renovated traditional Kyoto townhouse and offers a relaxed atmosphere with counter seats and private rooms accommodating up to 24 guests.
Especially popular are the VIP private rooms and comfortable horigotatsu seats.
Combined with the chance to savor Kyoto's premium pork, it’s a perfect spot for year-end parties, New Year gatherings, and business meetings.
Kyoto Tsuyu Shabu CHIRIRI Main Store
(Source:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260202/26020754/dtlphotolst/?smp=2&sby=D&srt=normal&mode=owner&PG=2)
"Kyoto Tsuyu Shabu CHIRIRI Main Store" is located near the Kyoto Imperial Palace and offers traditional tsuyu shabu in a luxurious setting.
Their specialty is shabu-shabu of thinly sliced meat of 0.8 mm dipped in a five-layer broth.
The restaurant, in a renovated Kyoto townhouse over 100 years old, provides a charming space where you can enjoy your meal while overlooking a Japanese garden.
Private rooms can accommodate from 2 to 50 guests, making them ideal for business meetings, parties, and formal gatherings.
The kimono-clad staff are known for their impeccable hospitality, and their courses featuring A4 and A5 grade Omi beef and a rich selection of sake are also highlights.
Tonyu Ton Shabu Torataro
(Source:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26016597/dtlphotolst/?smp=2&sby=D&srt=normal&mode=owner)
"Tonyu Ton Shabu Torataro" located near Shijo Station is famous for its soymilk pork shabu-shabu featuring Kagoshima Sangen white pork.
The unique, soymilk broth made with homemade tofu and enjoyed with Kyoto's Kujo green onions and vegetables is especially popular.
The restaurant has all horigatsu seating, where guests can take off their shoes and relax.
Service is provided by kimono-clad attendants, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Kyoto atmosphere.
The restaurant can cater to various occasions, including parties, business meetings, and anniversaries, with banquet rooms accommodating up to 100 guests.
Tajimaya Kyoto Yodobashi
(Source:https://tabelog.com/kyoto/A2601/A260101/26017013/dtlphotolst/?mode=owner&smp=2)
"Tajimaya Kyoto Yodobashi" is a shabu-shabu and sukiyaki specialty restaurant located just a 3-minute walk from Kyoto Station.
The highlight of this restaurant is the fresh meat, sliced to order.
With a variety of meat options, such as beef, pork, domestic beef, and Wagyu, they offer all-you-can-eat courses of 90 or 120 minutes that also include vegetables, rice, and udon noodles.
Additionally, during dinner time, Haagen-Dazs ice cream is included in the all-you-can-eat courses.
The restaurant is suitable for parties and large groups and can accommodate up to 80 guests for private events.
It's a convenient choice for tourists and accepts Kyoto Support Coupons and regional coupons.
Conclusion
Experiencing shabu-shabu in Kyoto is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the unique flavors and hospitality of the region.
The five restaurants introduced here each offer a distinctive charm and provide guests with an exceptional dining experience.
When you visit Kyoto, make sure to savor the unforgettable taste of shabu-shabu at these establishments.
Your trip is guaranteed to be even more special.