Nijojo Furuta

Far from the standard paint by numbers kaiseki dining experience, a meal at Nijojo Furuta in Kyoto is an exercise in experimentation. The owner-chef behind this Michelin-starred restaurant tactfully breaks the rules of traditional Kyo-ryori dining with dishes such as tempura topped with a grated mullet roe. Charcoal grilling is the specialty here, so expect a range of smoky-flavored seafood, meats, and vegetables which change season to season. The rice is also of exceptionally high quality, as it is all farmed by the chef’s uncle. Among so many traditional dining options to choose from in Kyoto, Nijojo Furuta is a good choice for unwaveringly high quality and good value.