Exploring Kyoto’s Family-Friendly Restaurants
Welcome to the ultimate guide for dining out with kids in the enchanting city of Kyoto! While Kyoto is famous for its stunning temples and rich culture, it also boasts a delightful culinary scene that caters to families. Whether you’re in the mood for gyoza, ramen, or vegan delights, we’ve rounded up a list of the best restaurants that not only serve delicious food but also provide a welcoming atmosphere for little ones. So, grab your chopsticks, and let’s dig in!
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
First up, we have some fantastic vegetarian and vegan spots that will leave both kids and parents raving!
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Coyote The Ordinary Shop
This charming café is perfect for a vegan breakfast! With dishes like vegan egg on toast and a great selection of coffee, it’s a hit with both adults and children. It’s non-smoking, and while they don’t take reservations, you can easily stroll in for a delightful meal. Expect to spend around 1200 yen for a meal.
Location: Ground Floor, Campus Plaza Kyoto Building, 939 Higashi-Shiokojicho, Shimogyo. Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5 PM.
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Veg Out
This riverside gem offers stunning views and a menu packed with vegan goodness. With only 26 seats, it’s a good idea to make a reservation. Lunch prices are about 1500 yen, while dinner will set you back around 3000 yen. The restaurant is also non-smoking and family-friendly!
Location: Ground Floor, Kamogawa Building, 44 Inari-cho, Shimogyo, Kyoto. Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 6 PM (last orders at 5:30 PM).
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Pettirosso Kyoto
For a modern casual dining experience, check out Pettirosso Kyoto. They serve a delightful range of vegetarian and vegan dishes and even offer order-made vegan cakes! This restaurant is cash-only, so come prepared. Expect to spend around 2000 yen for a meal here.
Location: 92 Nushiyacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto. Hours: Lunch from 11:30 AM to 3 PM, café from 2:30 PM to 6 PM, closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Traditional Dining Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, Kyoto has some incredible options that blend traditional settings with delicious cuisine!
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Sodoh
For a formal sit-down dinner, head to Sodoh, an Italian restaurant located in an old traditional Japanese home. The atmosphere is magical, and the garden is a beautiful backdrop. They offer a children’s menu and can cater to dietary restrictions. Budget around 4000 yen for lunch and 8000 yen for dinner.
Location: 366 Yasaka Kamicho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. Hours: Lunch from 11 AM to 2 PM, dinner from 5 PM to 10:30 PM.
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Mr Maurice’s Italian
Located on the rooftop of Ace Hotel Kyoto, this Italian restaurant serves delicious wood-fired pizzas and has a fantastic brunch! It’s family-friendly and stroller-accessible, but be sure to book, as it’s a popular spot. Expect to spend about 3000 yen during the day and 6000 yen at night.
Location: 3rd Floor, Ace Hotel Kyoto, 245-2 Kurumayacho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto. Hours: 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 5:30 PM to 10 PM (until 11 PM Fri-Sun).
Interactive Dining Fun
Dining in Kyoto can also be an interactive experience, which is perfect for keeping kids entertained!
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Tonyu Ton Shabu Shabu Torataro
This unique dining experience requires reservations, especially for families with kids, as they have private rooms. The shabu shabu broth is creamy and delicious, and kids will love cooking their own food! Budget around 3000 yen for lunch and 7000 yen for dinner.
Location: B1F Takanoha Square, 31 Kamiyanagi-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto. Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 11:30 AM to 2 PM and 5 PM to 11 PM.
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Gion Tanto
This casual okonomiyaki joint not only welcomes families but also allows you to watch your meal cooked right in front of you! They even have vegan options available. Budget about 2000 yen per adult for lunch or dinner.
Location: 372 Kiyomotocho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. Hours: Lunch from 12 PM to 3 PM, dinner from 5 PM to 10 PM.
Quick Bites & Casual Dining
If you’re on the go or just want a casual meal, Kyoto’s food scene has plenty of quick bites that are perfect for families!
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Chao Chao Gyoza Shijokawaramachi
Located just 9 minutes from Nishiki Market, this gyoza restaurant is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. They serve both meat and meat-free options and are very kid-friendly. Expect to spend about 1500 yen per adult for lunch.
Location: 312-1 Shijo Kawaramachi, Kyoto. Hours: Weekdays from 11:30 AM to 3 PM and 5 PM to 11 PM, weekends from 11:30 AM to 11 PM.
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Kura Sushi
A fun sushi train experience that is automated and easy for families! Kids will love picking their sushi off the conveyor belt. Budget around 1500 yen per adult here too.
Location: Near Nijo Station, open daily from 11 AM to midnight.
So there you have it! Kyoto is brimming with family-friendly dining options that cater to every taste and dietary need. From vegan delights to traditional Japanese experiences, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Happy dining!