Oct. 02, 2019 UPDATE
Bar K-ya - Bar K家 -
Traveler Friendly
Some staff speak basic English, and there is an English menu.
Menu
English menu available
Languages spoken
Basic English
396 4 --- 0 reviews
Oct. 02, 2019 UPDATE

Bar K-ya

- Bar K家 -
Traveler Friendly
Some staff speak basic English, and there is an English menu.
Menu
English menu available
Languages spoken
Basic English
396 4 --- 0 reviews
Story & Recommendation
A high-class night of an Islay Whisky and a Kyoto townhouse.
In the Kyoto bar scene, there are a number of well-known spots, but even among them, Bar K-ya stands out as one of the few that represent the city as a whole. Situated in the heart of downtown, Bar K-ya sits behind a discreet entrance that, unless you’re looking for it, you’ll completely pass by. Venture in and you’ll find a hideaway-like bar. This is Bar K-ya. The bar’s name, K-ya, comes from the initials of owner Kurono’s name and Kyoto, together with its location inside a traditional Kyoto machiya townhouse. The quality of the original early Showa Period townhouse remains, giving the bar a somewhat nostalgic atmosphere. With original aspects of the house such as the nakaniwa courtyard and detached room, which can be used as a private room by customers, the bar gives a rare look into the lives of those who lived back then. Bar K-ya has found a magnificent match between the wondrous atmosphere of a bar and the very Japanese atmosphere of these townhouses. Bar K-ya offer a number of original cocktails thought up by owner Kurono himself. K-ya’s cocktails are characterized by the large number of them that use Islay Whisky. The bar offers an exceptionally large number of Laphroaig based cocktails, making them a must check spot for lovers of smoky whiskeys. Of course, there are options for those not so inclined to whiskey either. Bar K-ya also offers a wide range of fruit cocktails that use seasonal fruits, so we can confidently recommend them to lovers of sweeter drinks and fruits too. If you’re looking for a Kyoto-esque bar, then no need to go any further than K-ya. As this bar is quite popular, we suggest getting there early. Enjoy a wonderful Kyoto night out surrounded by the smoky aromas of Islay Whisky.
1Recommended
Gaelic Espresso
Gaelic Espresso / ¥1,350 (Inc. Tax)
This original cocktail is packed with everything Bar K-ya. This cocktail is made with a light roast shot of espresso poured with a flambéd Laphroaig whiskey. This piece of bartending gives the illusion that fire is rising from the espresso. When you drink it as is, the astringency of the espresso is counteracted by the whiskey in a bizarre way by and made sweet. The accompanying “Laphroaig flavored chocolate ganache” makes this an amazing cocktail to sit back and relax with. *In addition to the Laphroaig cocktail, there are five other types of espresso cocktails available.
2Recommended
Islay Moscow Mule
Islay Moscow Mule / ¥1,050 (Inc. Tax)
Using Laphroaig single malt whiskey, the Islay Moscow Mule is a Bar K-ya original cocktail. A mixture of Belvedere vodka, dry ginger ale, and lime is stirred together with horseradish pickled in Laphroaig. Your first sip will hit you with the spicy bite of the ginger and horseradish, before following it up with the juicy flavors of the lime and finishing with the smoky aroma of the Laphroaig. For those wanting a little more alcohol and a little more spice, then you can add a few drops of the horseradish and Laphroaig mixture. Continue adding as you like until you’ve achieved your desired flavor. The feel of the copper mug will instantly cool you down, making it the perfect cocktail for those hot summer days in Kyoto.
3Let's Try!
Frozen Mojito
Frozen Mojito / ¥1,550 (Inc. Tax)
A true summer staple, Bar K-ya’s frozen mojito is sure to refresh and revitalize with the very first sip. Frozen in the ice, the mint leaves are fresh and lack any sembelance of bitterness. As you drink your mojito, the ice begins to melt and fills your mouth with the cool fragrances of the mint and acidity of the lime, prying your eyes open and waking you up. A sugar syrup is added to give the drink a balanced sweetness, making it a great option for those not fond of overly strong drinks.
4Let's Try!
Homemade Chocolate Ganache: Laphroaig Flavored
Homemade Chocolate Ganache: Laphroaig Flavored / ¥850 (Inc. Tax)
These squares of chocolate ganache are Laphroaig infused handmade bar snacks. The first thing you’ll notice when you poke a toothpick into one of the chocolates is the exceptionally soft texture. Once you have a piece in your mouth after carefully trying not to drop it, the bitter flavors of the cocoa, sweetness of the chocolate and stout, musky aromas of Laphroaig will explode in your mouth. As the ganache begin to melt, they become even softer, so you might need two toothpicks to get them to where they’re going. Bar K-ya’s Homemade Chocolate Ganache go great with whiskey and are an ever-popular item on the menu.
How to Order

For large groups, there may be times when you won’t be able to get your desired seats or will be offered seats separate from each other.

Seats can’t be specified so please keep this in mind.

The cover charge is ¥500/per person for counter seats and ¥1,000/per person for the detached private room.

If you make a reservation, you are asked to please respect the time you have designated.

- Order Tips -

Bar K-ya is popular with locals and is usually busy by 9 PM, so we recommend going early

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