Moko

Located near the famous Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, chef Alex Moko transformed a traditional machiya (traditional townhouse) into a Japanese-inflected modernist French restaurant, quickly earning a Michelin star within a year. The executive chef leverages experience from his dynamic career, which spans from being a head chef in London, but it was during an encounter with local farmers in the mountainous Ohara region of Kyoto that he found true inspiration for Moko. The tasting menu is more than just powerfully creative ideas and ingredients on a plate. Moko highlights his French roots to show his commitment to working with local and traditional suppliers. His ever-rotating dishes feature elements such as white asparagus from Hokkaido, smoked Biwa trout and red sea bream from Nagasaki, alongside duck from Ibaraki. A note-worthy dish is his unique rendition of French-inspired chawanmushi. From his open kitchen, guests can witness the art of the preparation. For some things, though, Moko sticks to the French classic: praline millefeuille for dessert on occasions and cheese assortments. The restaurant has preserved much of its original exterior, so it is easy to walk past Moko without realizing that behind its traditional noren curtain entrance lies Kyoto’s latest exciting culinary destination. Be sure to visit for lunch or dinner — Moko will not disappoint.