
Miyoshi
RESTAURANT SUMMARY

Where traditional kaiseki meets wagyu artistry, Miyoshi Kyoto elevates Japanese fine dining through Chef Tsutomu Ito's revolutionary beef-centric interpretation of the ancient multi-course tradition. Nestled discreetly in Kyoto's historic Gion district, this Michelin-starred sanctuary transforms premium Japanese beef into an intimate culinary pilgrimage.
Since opening in 2004, Chef Ito has pioneered a singular vision born from his transformative encounter with master-prepared wagyu. Self-taught yet masterful, he abandoned conventional kaiseki boundaries to create something entirely unprecedented: a nine-course journey where Japan's finest beef becomes the protagonist of each meticulously crafted chapter. His dedication earned Miyoshi coveted recognition including a Michelin star, Tabelog's best kaiseki award, and acclaim from Gault & Millau, establishing it among Kyoto's most celebrated dining destinations.
Miyoshi's cuisine philosophy centers on minimalist precision, allowing wagyu's natural complexity to shine through innovative preparations. Signature creations include the legendary kombu-pressed ox tongue, achieving unprecedented melt-in-mouth texture through traditional kelp-pressing techniques. The beef consommé crowned with white truffles delivers aromatic intensity, while sirloin sashimi showcases pure marbling artistry. Chef Ito's steamed rice finale, adorned with minced beef, caviar, and semi-cooked egg, creates textural symphony that defines luxury comfort. Seasonal accompaniments like pureed white corn soup with sea urchin and bamboo shoot clear broth demonstrate his mastery beyond beef, creating harmonious flavor progressions throughout the tasting menu experience.
The restaurant's intimate eight-seat hinoki cypress counter creates theater-like engagement, allowing guests to witness Chef Ito's precise knife work and innovative techniques. A private second-floor counter offers even greater exclusivity for discerning diners. The atmosphere balances quiet sophistication with warm hospitality, as Chef Ito shares preparation stories and culinary philosophy with engaged guests. Service follows traditional Japanese hospitality principles while maintaining the relaxed intimacy that makes each evening feel personally curated.
Reservations at this best fine dining in Kyoto destination require significant advance planning, with the chef's table experience booking months ahead. The dress code suggests business casual elegance befitting the refined Gion setting. For gourmands seeking Kyoto's most innovative kaiseki interpretation, Miyoshi represents an unmissable opportunity to experience wagyu elevated to art form, where every course reveals new dimensions of Japan's greatest culinary treasures.
CHEF
Tsutomu Ito
ACCOLADES

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Top Restaurants in Japan Ranked #43

(2025) EP Club Recommended Restaurant

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Top Restaurants in Japan Ranked #23

(2025) Tabelog Silver







