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Indagare member Pamela Murdoch, who traveled to Kyoto, recommends:

“This sixty-year-old restaurant in the Gion district has three Michelin stars and specializes in kaiseki cuisine.”

Indagare member Pamela Murdoch, who traveled to Kyoto, recommends:

“This is a classic Japanese dining experience (kaiseki), with numerous courses served by kimono-clad ladies in a private room. Tell them any food preferences in advance and then be prepared for a visual and culinary treat. Also be prepared to have a hard time finding this restaurant. Like many restaurants in the historic Gion district area, this one is hidden away on what seems to be a residential street. Other than a small sign with the name in Japanese, there is no hint this is a restaurant. Have the hotel tell the taxi driver where it is and give you a map. Our first course (of 14) was so beautiful looking that I wished I’d brought my camera, especially as there was no one other than us to see me taking embarrassing photos. Magically, one of the ladies appeared with a disposable one that I bought. Multi-course dinners are Yen15,000 to 30,000 per person (about $170 to $335). I got a bit carried away and also ordered a bottle of delicious Château Margaux, which made the bill even more memorable. The only negative was the bright lighting overhead.”

Indagare member Pamela Murdoch, who traveled to Kyoto, recommends:

“Go here for delicious tempura. The restaurant is on the second and third floors of a modern building with an art gallery on the ground floor and a winding staircase that goes up to the minimalist counter spaces on the second and third levels. Tenyu is best known for its tempura kaiseki menu (from Yen12,600), but lunchtime donburi dishes (savory stews served over rice) are far less expensive. They don’t take credit cards, so bring cash.”