Feb. 15, 2023 UPDATE
Shimogamo Saryo
- 下鴨茶寮 -Traveler Friendly
They have an English menu to be ready for guests coming from overseas. They also have English-speaking staff members available, so don’t hesitate to stop by.
Menu
English
Languages spoken
Basic English
Story & Recommendation
Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine that combines tradition and innovation in an elegant atmosphere
The area around Shimogamo Shrine is enveloped by a tranquil, solemn atmosphere. And in that same area right by Shimogamo Shrine, you’ll find a restaurant called Shimogamo Saryo. Established in 1856, Shimogamo Saryo shares a long history that extends all the way back to Japan’s Edo period (1603 to 1868). As soon as you step inside you’ll be hit with the pleasant aroma of incense, which is further complimented by a delightful interior design style and a Japanese garden outside that has been expertly tended for over 100 years. All of these components at the restaurant go a long way to provide a keen sense of hospitality to its guests.
Shimogamo Saryo makes use of ingredients that are exclusive to Kyoto and prepares them with cooking techniques that pay respect to older culinary traditions. Shimogamo Saryo also brings in novel culinary ideas, which makes their menu truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Although their food is based on the delicate and simple flavors of Kyo Ryori (Kyoto Cuisine), their menu is also full of new ideas, including Japanese wagyu beef fillets fried up into karaage, and a grilled sweetfish recipe that is unique to Shimogamo Saryo.
Many hotel concierges recommend Shimogamo Saryo since it’s so well-known, and the restaurant’s staff is well-accustomed to serving guests from overseas. Therefore, it’s relatively easy to stop in and enjoy the food here having difficulties.
1Recommended
Courses
/ Lunch:¥8,250（Weekday only）、¥13,200、¥16,500、¥22,000、¥27,500｜Dinner：¥16,500、¥22,000、¥27,500 ※All prices include tax and exclude service charge.
The food at Shimogamo Saryo is based on traditional Kaiseki/Kyo Ryori (Kyoto Cuisine), but they infuse it with their own original creations. The most original dish at Shimogamo Saryo would have to be the young sweetfish that is served after being grilled and dried. The sweetfish are small in size at only about 15 centimeters each, and they are first grilled and steamed before being dried. This process is repeated many times over to achieve a unique texture and flavor that comes through after being grilled and dried. There is a slight bitterness around the head of the fish, which is highlighted by the perfectly salty flavor of the body.
*The menu and ingredients are different depending on the season.
*Reservation required at least 3 days in advance for ¥27500 course only.
2Recommended
Sake
/ 180ml ￥1,650 ～
Shimogamo Saryo also puts a lot of effort into their selection of Sake.
They have their own Sake cellar inside the restaurant with a collection of around 50 distinguished brands. The staff helps you find the best Sake to match each dish and your palate.
They offer many seasonal varieties of sake from areas in Kyoto, and some of the sake serving sets they use here are created by local artisans who has a connection with Kyoto.
3Let's Try!
A Japanese garden tended for over 100 years
There is a delicately arranged Japanese-style garden that stretches along throughout Shimogamo Saryo’s property.
The garden’s scenery and landscape changes with each season, and it's truly mesmerizing each and every time. You can enjoy the beauty of the garden while you savor your food, or even while you wait to eat or before you head home after the meal.
How to Order
They have a bi-lingual menu with English and Japanese to be ready for guests coming from abroad. It may be interesting for you to check out the Japanese names and terms for each of the menu items.
- Order Tips -
・They employ staff members that speak English, so don’t hesitate to express any questions or concerns if something comes up.
・If you have any food allergies or dietary preferences, please inform the restaurants staff in advance so that they can arrange their dishes specially for you(your hotel concierge will help you to do so if necessary). For example, guests who cannot eat Japanese dashi fish stock don’t have to worry, since they can still enjoy the Japanese-style cuisine here with special preparation methods to accommodate them.
