Sumibi Kappou Ifuki

To understand the concept behind this Gion restaurant, perhaps it’s best to first look at the name. The word “ifuki” means “to breathe life into things,” which is exactly what the chef at Sumibi Kappo Ifuki does to his premium seasonal ingredients. Kappo is a traditional dining style popularized in Kyoto, in which the interactions between chef and customer are treasured. Finally, “sumibi” is the word for charcoal grilling — a technique studied by the chef-owner during his time in Spain. The uniqueness of his charcoal-grilled kappo dishes means that this restaurant is a must-try even for those who have tried a hundred others of the style already. Ingredients such as blowfish, bear, yellowfin tuna, and sea bream are hovered over burning coals to achieve an irresistible smoky flavor. Their Michelin-worthy set-course dining experience is completed by excellent porridge, homemade soba noodles, and antique serving ware upon which every dish is presented.