Yamato Mi

Lightly seasoned Kyoto-style dishes, highlighted by flavorful bonito stock, stand out, and seasonal small plates such as oden, skewered fried items, pike conger skin with cucumber, and fresh wheat-gluten miso dengaku are carefully prepared. Seasonal tempura and grilled dishes are also well regarded, and no matter what you order the dashi flavor ties everything together with a unified sense. The excellent value—authentic Kyoto flavors at reasonable prices—is one of the main attractions that has created long-time fans.

A small izakaya (Japanese pub) standing in an alley at Yanaginobanba Rokkaku, with a bright, clean counter. Because counter seating is central, it has an atmosphere that makes it easy for a single person to settle in comfortably. The proprietress's friendly service puts people at ease, and an air of welcoming without distinction between first-time visitors and local regulars makes it an ideal place to leisurely enjoy an evening in Kyoto.

Once located in Pontocho, north of Shijo (Shijo-agaru), and known for its kawadoko (river-terrace dining), the izakaya "Yamatomi" is the relocated and reopened establishment. During its Pontocho days it was long loved by locals and students along with the atmosphere of the Kamo River, but after a temporary closure it made a fresh start in the quieter Yanagibaba-Rokkaku area away from the bustle. With the proprietress still active, it has continued to preserve its unchanged flavors and atmosphere, and has become a place of reunion where former regulars visit again.