Tabelog ratingIida (飯田) is a temple of seasonal Japanese cooking, rooted in the traditions of the tea ceremony. Chef Shinichi Iida’s approach is defined by precision, particularly in his clear, powerful dashi and his masterful control of the charcoal grill. The experience is intimate and focused, unfolding at a quiet counter where the chef’s every move is part of the meal.
Guests consistently praise the purity of the flavors and the perfect execution of seasonal specialties. Highlights often include charcoal-grilled matsutake mushrooms, served both on their own and in a deeply aromatic matsutake gohan (mushroom rice). The unagi yawata-maki (eel roll), preparations of seasonal fish like suzuki or kinmedai, and delicate soba noodles with tempura are also frequently celebrated. Many reviewers note that the complex, pleasant aftertaste—the yoin—lingers long after the meal is over.
The main drawback is the extreme difficulty in securing a reservation; seats are almost entirely filled by regular patrons, making it nearly impossible for new guests to book. A minority of diners also find the very high price and considerable hype to be disproportionate. Photography is strictly forbidden.
Reviewers report that a full kaiseki dinner course costs between ¥50,000 and ¥63,100 per person, including drinks. Recent posts mention totals of around ¥58,700 and ¥63,100. For those seeking one of Kyoto’s definitive kaiseki experiences, it is widely considered worth the expense.
- Booking: A reservation is essential and extremely difficult to secure. Seats are typically reserved by regular patrons, and new guests may find it impossible to book directly.
- Getting There: The restaurant is a 10-minute walk from Hankyu Karasuma Station.
- Payment: Credit cards are not accepted. Please be prepared to pay with cash.
- Seating: The space is intimate, with just 6 counter seats and one private tatami room for 4 guests.
- Photography: Photography is strictly forbidden in the dining room, and posting any photos to social media is also prohibited.
- Service: Be aware that your seating may be limited to approximately two hours.
- Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
