My Kyoto with Kids page is extensive and includes the playgrounds, sightseeing and places to eat but if you’re just looking at Kyoto Restaurants to visit with kids? This is the best way to see all my favourites in one Kyoto gourmet swoop.
I add to this Kyoto Restaurants with kids blog post frequently as I find new gems.
My list includes gyoza, ramen, vegan options, gluten free options, teppanyaki, okonomiyaki.
PLEASE NOTE: This article contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
See here for a list of family-friendly restaurants less than 10 mins walk from Kyoto Station
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: EASY PASTA & PIZZA NEXT TO KYOTO STATION
For a good and easy (and super family-friendly pasta option) at Kyoto Station, I recommend Pasta More. It’s 1 min walk from the Hachijo Exit of Kyoto Station.
This is Japanese style Italian Pasta. They serve pizzas and desserts too. They accept credit cards. You can make a reservation here but, unless it’s a peak weekend night time, you should be fine with just a walk-in. Most meals are 1000-2000 yen each. I like their Japanese style Caesar Salad. They also have fries and you can get sausages too. See pictures of the full Pasta More menu here.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: SOUPS, CURRIES AND CASSEROLE STYLE SOUPS
Soups, curries and casserole style soups
Soup Stock is a casual soup chain store. This is inside the PORTA complex underneath Kyoto Station. There are 4gluten free options of soups here too ( look for a yellow GF symbol on the menu.) This is a great option if everyone in the family is craving vegetables. They have a kids bread, soup and drink meal for 750 yen and a free soup bowl of baby food for babies. They accept most major credit cards.
See pictures of the Soup Stock menu here.Open 10am-10pm.
This is the storefront of the Ebisu store but they are all a similar vibe.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: JAPANESE-FRENCH FUSION BAKERY
A bakery within the Aeon Mall Kyoto Kaede – just minutes on foot from Kyoto Station- that I love is Heart Bread Antique.
This is a Japanese-French Bakery. It’s located on the ground floor. They accept most major credit cards.
*This Aeon Mall also has an arcade, food court and shopping. There is also a large supermarket here and Toys R Us – which stocks nappies/diapers and baby food. I have more information on the Aeon Kaede Kyoto Mall in my Kyoto with Kids blog post.
It is open 10am-9pm.
Top Shelf: Salted Bread filled with Red Bean Paste & Whipped Cream, Cod Roe Crossiants, Red Bean Gipfeli (German style Croissant), Cannelé de Bordeaux、Small Weiner Sausages in Cheese Curry Bread, Melted Cheese Croque monsieur
Bottom Shelf: Onion & Chicken Zopf Bread, Frankfurter Hot Dog Roll, Crunchy Pork Bun, Beef Stew Pie, Cheese Cream Pie, Apple Pie.
You can use google translate but – just to give you an idea of the options
Salted Dough Pizza Bread, Melty Cheese Pizza Bread with Bacon, Long Wiener Hot Dog Bread.
HEART BREAD ANTIQUE
GROUND FLOOR OF AEON MALL KAEDE, KYOTO
OPEN 10AM-9PM
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: DORIA & OMURICE
Just 3 min walk from Kyoto Station is a large department store called Yodobashi (take the Shio-Koji Dori exit from Kyoto Station. It’s behind Kyoto Tower.) They sell electronics, clothing, books and toys etc but also have a restaurant floor. On that floor you’ll find many family-friendly restaurants.
I, in particular, like Kobe Motomachi Doria. As you can guess from the name, it’s brand from Kobe – specializes in Yoshoku (which is retro Japanified “western” dining options. These include hamburger steaks on hot plates, omurice and doria. Doria, if you’re not familiar, kind of looks like a shallow lasagna but is a bit more like a rice casserole. The bottom layer is rice and then another layer of protein such as meat or shrimp etc and veg and then the top layer is bechamel sauce and cheese. It’s really really yummy. Comfort food, for sure. Although Japanese people don’t call this “Japanese food” – I sure do. It often appears on the weekly dinner menu in the homes of Japanese people too.
This restaurant is on the 6th floor of Kyoto Yodobashi. It is a walk-in only restaurant during the day (no reservations.). If busy, I would just wait outside until a table becomes available the restaurant is full (eat before 12 or after 1:30pm if you can.). The restaurant seats 60 people so you shouldn’t be waiting too long. I would budget approx 2000 yen for an adult meal here. You can see pictures of the full Kobe Motomachi Doria Kyoto Yodobashi menu here. The full allergen menu list for Kobe Motomatchi Doria is here. They have an english menu.
They accept most major credit cards. Children are most welcome here. There is a kids menu – see pictures of the options here. They are so cute. Kids meals are for children 10 years old and younger. Each meal comes with either orange or apple juice. You can also order lightly seasoned potato wedges on the side.
The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
The menu is also displayed as wax models outside the shop so it’s super easy to see what you’ll be getting (and point at them to order.)
KOBE MOTOMACHI DORIA, KYOTO YODOBASHI
京都市下京区烏丸通七条下ル東塩小路町５９０-２ 京都ヨドバシビル６F
6F, KYOTO YODOBASHI BUILDING , 5902 HIGASHI SHIOKOJICHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11AM-11PM
There is a baby change table in the toilets on this floor – and a designated breastfeeding space.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: OMURICE
Another of my favourites to eat with kids (on the same floor of Yodobashi Kyoto) is Pomme no Ki. It is an Omurice restaurant. Omurice is a rice dish deserved with a big omelette – and then you choose the sauce on top which can be curry, gravy, stew or a tomato based sauce. It’s really yummy.
When eating at Pomme no Ki I would budget around 2000 yen per person. It is possible to make a phone reservation (Japanese only so ask your hotel to do this) but walk-ins are also fine. They can seat 54 people at a time – so you shouldn’t have to wait long if you just try your luck. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards and is an entirely non-smoking establishment.
POMME NO KI, KYOTO YODOBASHI
京都市下京区烏丸通七条下ル東塩小路町５９０-２ 京都ヨドバシビル６F
6F, KYOTO YODOBASHI BUILDING , 5902 HIGASHI SHIOKOJICHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11AM-11PM
There is a baby change table in the toilets on this floor – and a designated breastfeeding space.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS:PIZZA & PASTA
On the same floor of Yodobashi, Kyoto, there is also pizza and pasta chain restaurant “Capricciosa“. They accept most major credit cards here.
They have plastic plates and cutlery for kids. They also have high chairs and they allow parents to bring in their own baby food. They are also happy to prepare hot water for formula. I would budget 1500-2000 yen per adult to each here. They accept most major credit cards here. You can make a reservation ahead of time or just walk-in (the restaurant seats 60 people, so hopefully you won’t have to wait long. They have space to store strollers while you dine.
See the pictures of the full Capricciosa menu here (tap the red font along the top to see the pasta and salads and desserts too.
CAPRICCIOSA , KYOTO YODOBASHI
京都市下京区烏丸通七条下ル東塩小路町５９０-２ 京都ヨドバシビル６F
6F, KYOTO YODOBASHI BUILDING , 5902 HIGASHI SHIOKOJICHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11AM-11PM
There is a baby change table in the toilets on this floor – and a designated breastfeeding space.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: OKONOMIYAKI
On the same floor of Yodobashi, Kyoto, is an okonomiyaki restaurant called Tsuruhashi Fugetsu. You cook your own okonomiyaki on a hot plate at your table (don’t worry – the staff will help you if you don’t know what to do.) You can also make yakisoba. This is a great option for kids as they can get involved AND they can decide exactly which ingredients go in their meal. See my tips here on how to order a vegetarian okonomiyaki. You can ask your hotel to make a reservation for you or you can just try for a walk-in. The restaurant seats 82 people so, hopefully, you won’t wait long if you just line up. This restaurant is non-smoking. They accept most major credit cards. See the full Tsuruhashi Fugetsu menu in English here.
TSURUHASHI FUGETSU, KYOTO YODOBASHI
京都市下京区烏丸通七条下ル東塩小路町５９０-２ 京都ヨドバシビル６F
6F, KYOTO YODOBASHI BUILDING , 5902 HIGASHI SHIOKOJICHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11AM-10PM
There is a baby change table in the toilets on this floor – and a designated breastfeeding space.
*On the ground floor of the Yodobashi Kyoto building is also a Burger King and an English style Pub. *
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: YAKINIKU
Also in Yodobashi Kyoto on the 6th floor – Yakiniku chain restaurant Toraji. For dinner I would budget for 8000 yen per adult and more like 3000 yen at lunch time. They accept most major credit cards here. They welcome children. See the full Toraji menu in English here.
TORAJI, YODOBASHI KYOTO
京都市下京区烏丸通七条下ル東塩小路町５９０-２ 京都ヨドバシビル６F
6F, KYOTO YODOBASHI BUILDING , 5902 HIGASHI SHIOKOJICHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11AM-11PM
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: VEGETARIAN & VEGAN RESTAURANTS
For a vegan breakfast, I recommend Coyote The Ordinary Shop in Kyoto. This cafe serves vegan egg on toast and coffee.
This cafe doesn’t accept reservations. They do accept most major credit cards. The entire cafe is non-smoking. I would budget around 1200 yen for a meal here.
COYOTE THE ORDINARY SHOP, KYOTO
下京区東塩小路町939 キャンパスプラザ京都 1F
GROUND FLOOR, CAMPUS PLAZA KYOTO BUILDING, 939 HIGASHI-SHIOKOJICHO, SHIMOGYO
OPEN EVERYDAY 8:30AM-5PM
If you are looking for vegan options in Kyoto, I recommend trying the restaurant Veg Out by the river near Shichijo Station exit 3 (Keihin Line.)
This restaurant does except reservations ( and I recommend doing so as the restaurant only has 26 seats.)
For lunch I’d expect to pay around 1500 yen for an adult and double that amount for dinner. They do accept most major credit cards. This is a non-smoking restaurant. This restaurant also has a lovely view of the river.
This restaurant is 11 minutes walk from Kyoto Station- via the Karasuma Main Exit, 9 mins by taxi ( approx 800 yen) from Kiyomizudera or 15 mins taxi ( approx 1800 yen) from the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
VEG OUT
下京区七条通加茂川筋西入ル稲荷町448 鴨川ビル1F
GROUND FLOOR, KAMOGAWA BUILDING, 44 INARI-CHO, SHIMOGYO, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-6PM (LAST ORDERS AT 5:30PM)
VEG OUT WEBSITE
HAPPY COW REVIEW OF VEG OUT
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: FLUFFY JIGGLY PANCAKES
Make reservations 2 weeks ahead if you want to eat those fluffy, jiggly viral Japanese pancakes by visitingA Happy Pancake Kyoto (see here for my full list of things to book in advance when visiting Japan with kids.) It is possible to just turn up but wait times can be up to 45 mins long AND some places only take walk-ins until they are sold out. Reservations for famous restaurant called “A Happy Pancake” (also referred to as Shiawase no Pancake in Japanese -and is sometimes spelled this way on google maps) open exactly 2 weeks ahead of your preferred dining date. Reservations open two weeks in advance at midnight Japan time! They have restaurants in Hokkaido, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Fukuoka and Okinawa.
Click here to make A Happy Pancake reservation for you and your family. You will need to make an account and log in to do so (so this before midnight to ensure your reservation is as quick as possible.)
The Happy Pancake Kyoto store is just 5 mins walk from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station. Budget 2000 yen per person to dine here. They accept most major credit cards. The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
A HAPPY PANCAKE, KYOTO
京都市中京区伊勢屋町354-1 伽羅ビル 2F
2ND FLOOR KIYARA BUILDING, 354-1 ISEYACHO, NAKAGYO-KU
OPEN WEEKDAYS 11AM-8PM (LAST ORDERS 7:15PM)
OPEN WEEKENDS & NATIONAL HOLIDAYS 10AM-8:30PM (LAST ORDERS 7:40PM)
*Please note that pancakes are only sold until 2:30pm on weekends – all day on weekdays though.
If you decide to go to Ginkakuji, the silver pavillion, I’d like to recommend a nearby vegetarian & vegan organic restaurant called Gorey Cafe. This is fabulous option if you are craving lots of lovely fresh veggies. Vegetables here are mostly organic and are from Ohara in Kyoto. Gorey Cafe also have several gluten free options. They are well known for their delicious vegetarian curries and pasta dishes. They also have a vegan lunch set. This restaurant also serves wine and coffee. See the full Gorey Cafe menu online here.
Gorey Cafe is 10 mins walk from Ginkakuji or 6 mins (approx 900 yen) in a taxi from Mototanaka Station. Alternatively, you can use google maps to help you take a bus from Motonaka Station. Please note that this restaurant is cash only.
This restaurant also has a few toys and books for kids to play with and read.
GOREY CAFE
京都市左京く浄土寺西田町82-1
82-1 JODOJI MISHIDACHO, SAKYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN MON-SAT 11AM-11PM (PLEASE ASK YOUR HOTEL TO CALL AHEAD AS THIS IS A SMALL BUSINESS AND MAY CLOSE FOR ILLNESS ETC)
Also near the silver pavilliion, Ginkakuji, is a lovely gluten free restaurant called Kuru Kuru. It is a 1 min walk from Ginkakuji-Michi Bus Stop or 6 mins walk from Ginkakuji (the silver pavillion) itself. They also have lots of vegan options.
Food options here include pizza, curry, oden as well as gluten free cakes. I recommend budgeting for 1000 yen per person to eat here. It’s mostly a cafe with a few tables so you can dine in or take-away. The owners here are so so so lovely.
KURU KURU
京都市左京区浄土寺東田町60
60 JODOJI HIGASHIDACHO, SAKYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN MON-WED 9AM-7PM
OPEN THURS & FRI 11AM-7PM
OPEN WEEKENDS 9AM-7PM
CLOSED EVERY 1ST & 3RD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH (CHECK THE CALENDAR ON THEIR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT FOR THEIR MONTHLY OPERATIONAL HOURS)
See here for my tips regarding Japanese dining etiquette.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: ROOFTOP WOODFIRED PIZZAS (WITH GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS)
Mr Maurice’s Italian at Ace Hotel Kyoto has a lovely rooftop. They also have a lovely brunch here (after 11am.). Best to book as it is popular.
Children welcome and they have space to store a stroller. They have an English menu which also includes vegetarian options and gluten free spaghetti. Budget for adults during the day – approx 3000 yen and more like 6000 yen at night. Please note that this restaurant has a 10% service charge to your bill at the end. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. You can see their full menu here. On a Friday and Sat night this is kind of a date spot so, for me, I wouldn’t visit here with kids on those nights after 7:30pm (more pressure to not disturb others etc, but that’s just me.) It’s really easy to make a reservation via their website in English. Make a reservation at Mr Maurice’s Italian here.
MR MAURICE’S ITALIAN
京都市中京区車屋町245-2 ACE HOTEL KYOTO 3F
3RD FLOOR, ACE HOTEL KYOTO, 245-2 KURUMAYACHO, NAKAGYO-KU
OPEN 11:30AM-3PM & 5:30PM-10PM (UNTIL 11PM FRI-SUN)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: Michelin Star Omakase with a vegan course option
Also near Karasuma Oike Station (5 mins walk from Exit 3-1) is an omakase restaurant called Muromachi Waden.
I haven’t had the privilege of dining at Michelin Star awarded restaurant Muromachi Wakuden yet but I have heard amazing things – especially regarding their vegan tasting meal with sake pairing. This restaurant welcomes children and babies – they will organise a private room for families. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Please budget 20,000 yen per adult at lunch time and 40,000 yen at dinner time. Make a reservation here using the ByFood site ( you can even explain allergies etc all in English here.
Please note :
OMAKASE SUSHI IS FINE DINING AND THE CHEF CHOOSES THE MENU. IT MEANS THE CHEF CHOOSES.
You don’t have to eat everything on your plate*. You don’t even have to try everything. You are the customer. But you don’t get to choose the menu.
*Japanese people do dislike food wastage (don’t we all?!) and so I recommend at least trying each dish OR if you are not the type to want to try lots of new and wonderful delicacies – then I don’t think omakase style is the best choice for you. Go for a restaurant where you order the dishes you want to eat (a la carte or tanpin as it’s called in Japan.)
Here are a whole lot of my personal tips on dining etiquette in Japan.
MUROMACHI WAKUDEN
京都市中京区堺町姉小路上ル丸木材木町679
OPEN 11:30AM-3PM & 5:30PM-9PM
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
See here for my full list of omakase restaurants in Japan who also welcome children.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: SPANISH ITALIAN DINING IN THE HEART OF GION
Rigoletto is a Spanish, Italian restaurant in the middle of Gion. It’s actually a really special experience as the whole area is full of older Japanese wooden buildings – but behind one of these doors is Rigoletto Smoke Bar & Grill, Gion. For lunchtime here, I would budget approximately 2000 yen per adult and for dinnertime? More like 5000 yen. Please note that this restaurant has a 10% service charge added to the bill for those dining after 5pm. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards. The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
This restaurant welcomes families but it is a bit of a special vibe so it’s not really a “bring an iPad” kind of place. So we always take a few sheets for colouring in. If your kids aren’t yet able to sit in their seat for a meal then save this restaurant for another time instead.
Reservations for Rigoletto can be made on the TableCheck website here.
The staff here speak English really well. You can see pictures and the full Rigoletto Gion menu here.
Rigoletto is 7 mins walk from Gion Shijo Station (via Exit 6.) If you take a taxi from Kyoto Station, it will take approximately 10 mins (approx 1500 yen.)
RIGOLETTO SMOKE BAR & GRILL, GION
京都市東山区祇園町南側570-192
570-192 MINAMI-GAWA, GION-CHO, HIGASHIYAMA-KU, KYOTO
OPEN WEEKDAYS: MIDDAY-3PM & 5PM-11PM
OPEN WEEKENDS: 11:30AM-11PM
See here for some beautiful tea ceremony options in this area.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: SUSHI TRAIN
Also a few mins walk from Gion Shijo Station, is Sushiro. This sushi train chain restaurant welcomes kids and, if you sit in a booth, kids get to play short video games on the big screen in your booth every time you hit a certain number of plates (warning: the games are very very short – a few seconds only – so play it down to kids or take turns or something as it moves quickly and I don’t want anyone to get disappointed. To avoid queues, I recommend getting there with kids a few mins before opening times OR between 2:30pm-5pm (quieter dining hours.) They accept most major credit cards here. Most dishes are 200 yen or so – so for a meal here I would budget 1500 yen per adult. See the full Sushiro menu here. Sushiro is great for gluten free diners as they have an allergen menu.
Please note that Sushiro technically doesn’t have any truly vegan sushi options as they use fish extract-vinegar – you may want to look at alternative sushi train restaurants if this is a deal breaker for you.
SUSHIRO, KYOTO GION MACHIKITAGAWA
京都市東山区祇園町南側574 フジビル B1F
BASEMENT 1 FLOOR, FUJI BUILDING, 574 GIONMACHI MINAMIGAWA, HIGASHIYAMA-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11AM-11PM (OPEN FROM 10:30AM ON WEEKENDS)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: SUSHI !
Another fabulous family friendly option near Karasuma-Oike Station is Sushi restaurant Sushi Zen. Please note that this restaurant is cash only. This restaurant takes reservations and occasionally accepts walk-ins. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. This restaurant are fine with diners coming in as a family with children. All seating is at a counter.
This restaurant is well-known for its incredible Chirashi-zushi. I recommend budgeting approximately 2000 yen per person. This is also a great place for the grownups to try different sake.
SUSHI ZEN, KYOTO
京都市中京区三条通新町東入ル衣棚町41-2
41-2 KOROMONOTANACHO, NAKAGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN ONLY ON WEEKDAYS 10AM-6PM
CLOSED WEEKENDS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: SOY MILK PORK SHABU SHABU WITH KIDS NEXT TO SHIJO STATION
This restaurant is called Tonyu Ton Shabu Shabu Torataro and requires that all tables be reserved and ask that those dining with kids reserve a private room (which is actually great as you don’t need to worry about kids wriggling about and disturbing others.) The broth for the shabu shabu is creamy and made with soy milk and the pork is to be cooked lightly in the pot that everyone shares. Shabu Shabu is a fabulous and interactive way to dine as a family in Japan.
The way it works is – you choose a Course and then they bring out all of the ingredients to be cooked in the pot at the table (don’t worry – they will show you what to do.)
1 min walk from Shijo Station and 3 mins walk from Karasuma Station.
Budget for lunch is around 3000 yen per adult and more like 7000 yen at dinnertime. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards. There is also a kids menu. This restaurant also has high chairs. It is best to ask your hotel to make reservations for you or you can make a reservation on tabelog.
TONYU TON SHABU SHABU TORATARO
京都市下京区仏光寺通烏丸東入上柳町331 タカノハスクエア B1F
B1F TAKANOHA SQUARE, 31 KAMIYANAGI-CHO, KARASUMAHIGASHIIRU, BUKKOJIDORI, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN TUES – SUN 11:30AM-2PM & 5PM-11PM
CLOSED ON SUNDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS:
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: VEGAN, GLUTEN FREE, HALAL FOOD
Gluten Free, Vegan and Halal Food near Kiyomizudera
Just adding this in here – if you’re looking for gluten free food near Kiyomizudera, I recommend walking for 8 mins to Chakra for gluten-free Bangladeshi food in Kyoto. A lunch set is around 1300 yen. They have an English menu and do accept major credit cards. They also have high chairs for children. The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
CHAKRA
京都府京都市東山区遊行前町558-6 クレサンテ五条坂1F
GROUND FLOOR, CRESCENT GOJOZAKA BUILDING, 558-6 YUGYOMAE, HIGASHIYAMA-KU, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-10PM
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: GLUTEN FREE ITALIAN/SPANISH/JAPANESE FUSION
This entire restaurant is gluten free. It is called Kyoto Italian Oushoku Kappa and it is a 2 min walk from Exit 5 of Shijo Station. This restaurant takes reservations (they only seat 25 so a reservation is a good idea.) Make a reservation for Kyoto Italian Oushoku Kappa here. Please budget for 3000 yen per adult for lunch here and more like 13,000 yen at dinner time (there is also a service charge of 10% at dinner time). They accept most major credit cards. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. This restaurant can also cater to vegan and vegetarian clientele.
KYOTO ITALIAN OUSHOKU KAPPA
京都市下京区仏光寺西町352 瑞晃ビル 2F
OPEN FOR LUNCH: 11:30AM-3PM (LAST ORDERS 2:30PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER: 5:30PM-10PM (LAST ORDERS 9:30PM)
CLOSED TUESDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: KATSUDON (PORK CUTLET SERVED ON RICE)
Nigata Katsudon Tare Katsu is just 1 min walk from Karasuma Station (via Exit 12.) This restaurant welcomes children. They accept most major credit cards. Budget for 1000-2000 yen per person to dine here. See pictures of the menu at Nigata Katsudon Tare Katsu here. As well as pork there is a veggie bowl or a shrimp bowl option. They also have katsu sandwiches.
NIGATA KATSUDON TARE KATSU
44 SHIOYACHO, SHIMOGYO-KU
京都市下京区綾小路柳馬場下がる塩屋町44
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-10:30PM (CLOSES AT 9:30PM ON SUNDAYS AND NATIONAL HOLIDAYS)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: GLUTEN FREE OPTION
Gluten free option in Kyoto.
It’s random but a good old reliable option for those who are strictly gluten free. Dominos Pizza does not have gluten free pizzas BUT they do have a wheat free pizza rice bowl. There is a Dominos Pizza in Kawaramachi Marutamachi. See therice bowl on the Dominos Japan menu here. Other gluten free options from Dominos Japan include the Dominos Shake Real Strawberry and the Freshly Baked Fondant Chocolat. You can always order these on ubereats too.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: FRIED CHICKEN & BURGERS (HAWAIIAN STYLE) WITH GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS
Loco Chicken is really popular as the food is really really good. Loco Chicken is 300 metres from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station. They accept most major credit cards. It is a takeaway restaurant (there are only 4 seats inside at a counter.). They are also on Ubereats. Menu options are chicken and rice or burgers and chips. They understand what it means to be gluten free. Pretty much the whole menu is gluten free except for the wheat flour burger buns (so get a rice flour bun instead!)- that includes gluten free fries and onion rings!
Even inside their restaurant is a sign that says “Our rice is nutritious, absorbs less oil for a lighter finish and is gluten-free – ideal for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.” There is zero wheat flour in the batter coating used for the chicken and the chicken is fried in rice oil. If you like wasabi- try the gluten-free Wasabi Lime Chicken Burger.
LOCO CHICKEN
京都市下京区市之町253-1 河原町会館 1F
GROUND FLOOR, KAWARAMACHI KAIKAN, 253-1 ICHINOCHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-2:30PM
OPEN FOR DINNER 5PM-8:45PM
*Please note that they close one day a week and it can change so please check the Loco Chicken instagram for the monthly calendar.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: PIZZA & PASTA
Trattoria Amore Kiyamachi is a beautiful spot to have a meal as a family in this area. The restaurant welcomes children. This restaurant is 5 mins walk from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station and Keihan Gion Shijo Station. I recommend budgeting 2000 yen for lunch per adult or more like 4000 yen at dinner time. They accept most major credit cards. There is a service charge of 380 yen per adult at dinner time May-mid-Oct. The entire venue is non-smoking. They also have space for strollers. See the full menu at Trattoria Amore Kiyamachi here. Ask your hotel to make a reservation on your behalf (they prefer reservations be made directly.)
TRATTORIA AMORE KIYAMACHI
京都市下京区木屋町通仏光寺下ル和泉屋町161
161 IZUMIYACHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-3PM (LAST ORDERS 2:30PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER 5PM-10PM (LAST ORDERS 9:30PM)
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: A SHOPPING CENTRE WITH A BASEMENT FLOOR DELI AND FLOORS OF KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS
Takashimaya
Head to Kyoto Takashimaya Shopping Complex. It is 4 mins walk from Nishiki Market. It can also be directly accessed from Hankyu Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station. It is also 5 mins walk from Gion-Shijo Station. There is a Nintendo Store here (crowded, especially on weekends.) There is also a beautiful bookstore called Tsutaya. The baby room here is incredible for little ones. They have high chairs to stop and feed baby and a soft play section – as well as curtained off nursing “booth rooms” and change tables. Please be aware that the soft play area is a shoes off area.
I highly, highly recommend making time to check out the B1 food floor – it’s the most incredible gourmet delicatessen style food hall – you’ll be BLOWN AWAY!
When eating at the restaurants on the higher restaurant floors, I recommend Tempura Tsunahachi or Keitei for tonkatsu (they both have high chairs).
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: VEGAN CAFE WITH SOME GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS
A well-loved Vegan Restaurant Ain Soph Journey Kyoto will definitely require a reservation. Make a reservation online for Ain Soph Journey Kyoto here. This restaurant is also 2 mins walk from Exit 9 of Hankyu Kawaramachi Station or 10 mins walk from Exit 4 of Gion Shijo Station. They accept most major credit cards. I recommend budgeting for 2000 yen per person to dine here. They also have a gluten free menu.
AIN SOPH JOURNEY KYOTO
新京極通四条上ル中之町538-6
538-6 NAKANOCHO, NAKAGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR LUNCH: MIDDAY-5PM (LAST ORDERS 4PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER: 6PM-10PM
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: GLUTEN FREE CAFE
Koma Gallery Cafe is a gluten free cafe. It is possible to make reservations but it is rarely busy so you could also try for a walk-in. There is also a beautiful little garden at the back of the cafe. Muffins, pastries and (simple, but delicious) sandwiches. Order the rice flour egg sandwich. This cafe is on the more expensive side. The cafe is in the Higashiyama / Gion district and this little hidden gluten free gem is also in a beautiful old Japanese building – in keeping with the feel of the area.
This cafe is close to Yasaka Shrine and 9 mins walk to Kiyomizudera.
KOMA GALLERY CAFE
東山区八坂通東大路東入2丁目金園町397
397 KINENCHO, YASAKA-DORI, HIGASHIOJI HIGASHIIRI, HIGASHIYAMA-KU
OPEN 10AM-7PM
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: A kaiseki meal with Gluten Free or Vegetarian options
I recommend booking Tousuiro Gion for a gluten free or vegetarian kaiseki meal. They welcome children. Please let them know your dietary requirements when you make a reservation. See the full menu in English here. This restaurant specializes in incredible tofu dishes. Budget between 5,000 yen and 15,000 yen per person. They accept most major credit cards. This is also a great place for adults to try different types of sake.
Before booking a kaiseki meal, I recommend reading here what it is and why it can be tricky with small children.
TOUSUIRO GION
京都市東山区東大路通松原上ル四丁目毘沙門町38-1
38-1, BISYAMONTEN-CHO, 4 MATSUGARA-AGARU, HIGASHIOJI, HIGASHIYAMA-KU
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-2PM
OPEN FOR DINNER 5PM-9:30PM
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: Family-Friendly Kaiseki
The Kaiseki Happoen Kyoto
This is a high end kaiseki restaurant (read more about taking kids to Kaiseki here) and it is 10 mins wak from Kiyomizudera.) Budget 8000 yen per adult at lunchtime and 15,000 yen at dinner time. There is a 10% service charge added to the bill at the end. Reservations are required. They accept most major credit cards. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Dress code is smart casual – business shirts with collars for men and dresses encouraged for women. See an example of the lunch menu here – remember that the ingredients and dishes change with the seasons. 15 mins from Gion Shijo Station on foot.
THE KAISEKI
京都府京都市東山区八坂上町385-8
OPEN FOR LUNCH: 11AM-2:30PM (LAST ORDERS AT 12:30PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER: 5PM-9PM (LAST ORDERS AT 7PM)
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: Gluten Free with Vegan options near Kodaiji and Kiyomizudera
If you are looking for a gluten free lunch (with vegan options) in this area ( 15 mins walk from Kodaiji Temple or 16 mins walk from Kiyomizudera) I recommend Waco Crepes. They serve savoury and dessert crepes (the chocolate and banana one is yum!) and I recommend the salmon salad crepe. It’s so good. The gluten free ham with poppyseeds crepe is also very popular. They also serve gluten free beer. This restaurant is very English friendly. The restaurant is full of plants and wooden decor- so it’s a lovely place to chill. If you are making your way here by public transport – take the train to Kiyomizu Gojo Station and then walk for 300 metres. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards. There is a very small neighbourhood playground across the other side of the lane so you can get them takeaway and eat while kids play – it has a slide, a seesaw and a climbing frame (not much green or anything but it will buy you a few wriggly minutes of play and sanity.)
WACO CREPES
京都市東山区宮川筋6-355-1 1F
GROUND FLOOR, 6-355-1 MIYAGAWASUJI, HIGASHIYAMA-KU, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-5:30PM
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS:
Sugarhill Kyoto – 5 mins walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station.
This restaurant is very English-friendly, Kid-friendly and alsoGluten Free Friendly.
They can get busy so it is a good idea to make a reservation. Make a reservation at Sugarhill Kyoto online here. I recommend budgeting 4000 yen per adult for a meal here – the cuisine is Japanese & Italian Fusion. This is also a great place for parents to try hot and cold sake. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Learn more about Sugarhill Kyoto on Trip Advisor here.
SUGARHILL KYOTO
京都市下京区河原町通り松原下る植松町725-3
725-3 UEMATSUCHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 5PM-10PM
CLOSED ON SUNDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki Kiraku Kiyomizu-gojozakaten
This okonomiyaki restaurant welcomes kids and are just 13 mins walk from the Kiyomizudera entrance (takes longer in a cab so just walk.) They accept reservations and also take credit cards. See pictures of the menu here. It is also 7 mins walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station.
OKONOMIYAKI KIRAKU KIYOMIZU GOJOZAKATEN
京都市東山区東大路五条上ル遊行前町562 ペラジオ京都清水 1F
GROUND FLOOR, BELLAGIO KYOTO KIYOMIZU BUILDING, 562 YUGYOMAECHO
OPEN FOR LUNCH: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
OPEN FOR DINNER: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
CLOSED MONDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: Yakitori
Toriyaki Oudori
This is a family-friendly Yakitori restaurant. They also have edamame, fried chicken, tofu salad but the rest of the menu is mostly yakitori. This is.a very casual pub style restaurant – if you want fancy fine dining you’ll be disappointed as it’s local and vibey. This restaurant is 3 mins walk from Kiyomizu Gojo Station. I recommend budgeting 3000 yen per adult for a meal here. They accept most major credit cards. There is a designated smoking area here so ask to be seated away from this section. They have an English menu. They also have space to store strollers while you dine. See pictures of the menu at Toriyaki Oudori here. You can also read about Toriyaki Oudori on Trip Advisor here.
TORIYAKI OUDORI
京都市下京区植松町729 中徳ビル 1F
GROUND FLOOR, 729 UEMATSUCHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 5PM-MIDNIGHT
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS:Izakaya with Gluten Free Options
Another gluten free option in this area is Karasuma Rock. This restaurant is 2 mins walk from Gojo Station (via exit 8.)
Let them know in advance if you are gluten free or coeliac and they are so good here at being accommodating. This is an izakaya that specialises in yakiniku and chicken dishes. The food here really is exceptional. They welcome children and babies (please note that they do not have high chairs.) This restaurant has an English menu. They also accept most major credit cards. I recommend budgeting 5000 yen per adult to when dining here. Make a reservation on google for this restaurant.
KARASUMA ROCK
京都区下京区烏丸通六条下ル北町191
191 KITAMACHI, ROKUJO-SAGARU, KARASUMA-DORI, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 5PM-11PM (LAST ORDERS 10:30PM)
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: OKONOMIYAKI WITH GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS
Ikkakuju Karasuma welcomes families with small children. They even have plastic plates and cups for kids and allow parents to bring in their own baby food. This okonomiyaki restaurant is 3 mins walk from Karasuma Station and Shijo Station. To dine here at lunch I would budget 1000-2000 yen per adult but more like 3000 yen at dinner time. This restaurant has an english menu and accepts most major credit cards. This is a mom & pop style shop so it’s like eating street food style okonomiyaki (not a fancy looking restaurant etc.)
This restaurant can make a 100% gluten free okonomiyaki.
Be sure to make a reservation and, for families, they can even seat you in a private tatami room.
Ikkakuju Karasuma, Kyoto
Ikkakuju Karasuma. Look for the unicorn when you’re looking for the entrance.
down these stairs to the left of this picture.
IKKAKUJU KARASUMA
京都市下京区神明町248 グラン・ジュール綾小路 B1F
BASEMENT FLOOR, 248 GRAND JEWEL AYANOKOJI, SHINMEICHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN MON, WED, THURS & FRI 5PM-11PM
OPEN WEEKENDS 11:30AM-3PM & 5PM-11PM
CLOSED TUESDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: TONKATSU AND KATSU CURRY
Stephen Curry is 5 mins walk from Shijo Station or Karasuma Station – take Exit 26. They accept most major credit cards. They welcome kids – although please note that there are only 5 seats in the restaurant so many people go for takeout. See the full Stephen Curry menu in English here.
They also serve hot and cold sake as well as wine. See pictures of their menu items on the Stephen Curry instagram page here. Budget for 1500-2000 yen per adult to eat here.
STEPHEN CURRY
京都市下京区糸屋町229 横山ビル 1F
GROUND FLOOR, 229 YOKOYAMA BUILDING, ITOYA-CHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-3PM & 4:30PM-9:30PM
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
The Samurai & Ninja Museum in Kyoto is also in the market area.
This is a great option for families (even grannies and grandpas like this one.) Unless you have ninja obsessed teens- I feel that this activity is best for kids between the ages of 2-8.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: GYOZA, RAMEN & FRIED RICE (FRIED RICE IS OFTEN REFERRED TO AS CHA-HAN IN JAPAN)
I recommend going to Tiger Gyoza Hall (or Tiger Gyoza Kaikan) for lunch or dinner. It’s casual and yummy and also so budget friendly. You can also ask the staff for their vegan friendly menu.
This restaurant accepts reservations – make a reservation here using google translate OR ask your hotel to make one on your behalf. It does seat 68 people so you won’t have to wait too long if there is a line. Tiger Gyoza Hall Shijo accepts most major credit cards.
For lunch here I would budget for 1500 yen for lunch per person and around 3000 yen for dinner. Kids are welcome here and you don’t need to order them a full meal but it is polite to have at least one dish per person – even if that dish isn’t going to be consumed by that child- ordered (the idea is you share all items accept for ramen anyway. If you want to share a little bit of ramen with kids, I recommend asking for a small side plate – a torizaraand you can make them their own little mini-bowl.)
This restaurant is 5 mins walk from Karasuma Station and 5 mins walk from Nishiki Market.
TIGER GYOZA HALL, SHIJO KARASUMA
京都市中京区占出山町314-1
314-1 URADEYAMACHO, NAKAGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-3PM (LAST ORDERS 2PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER 5PM-10PM (LAST ORDERS 9:30PM)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: GLUTEN FREE ITALIAN
Many of my gluten free friends tell me that they didn’t eat this well while actually in Italy. This place is delicious. You will need to make a reservation. Make a reservation in English for Kyoto Italian Kappa here. It is called Kyoto Italian Kappa. It is 1 min walk from Bukkoji Temple and 3 mins walk from Shijo Karasuma Station or 2 mins walk from Shijo Station. They accept most major credit cards. Budget 4000 yen per adult at lunch time and more like 12,000 yen at dinner time. Please note that there is a 10% surcharge at dinner time. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. They have an English menu. This is also an amazing place to try wagyu. The chef is gluten free an so is the entire menu.
Most popular menu items include rice flour foccacia bread and french onion soup.
KYOTO ITALIAN OSHOKUYA KAPPA
京都市下京区仏光寺西町352 瑞晃ビル 2F
2F, 352 BUKKOJI NISHIMACHI, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-3PM (LAST ORDERS 2:30PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER 5:30PM-10PM
CLOSED TUESDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: GYOZA, RAMEN & FRIED RICE (FRIED RICE IS OFTEN REFERRED TO AS CHA-HAN IN JAPAN)
This isn’t a duplicate recommendation. There is another Tiger Gyoza 5 mins walk from Kawaramachi Station in Kyoto too.
This restaurant is 5 mins walk from Kawaramachi Station and 3 mins walk from Nishiki Market. This restaurant also accepts credit cards. They accept reservations and welcome families. If you do try a walk-in you shouldn’t have to wait long as the restaurant seats 58 people. Ask the staff for vegetarian and vegan options.
TiGER GYOZA HALL KAWARAMACHI
京都市中京区新京極通四条上ル中之町579-7-5
579-7-5 SHINKYOGOKU-DORI, SHIJO-AGARU, NAKANOCHO, OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-3PM (LAST ORDERS 2PM)
OPEN FOR LUNCH ON WEEKDAYS 11:30AM-3PM (LAST ORDERS 2:30PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER ON WEEKDAYS 5PM-10PM (LAST ORDERS 9:30PM)
OPEN ON WEEKENDS 11:30AM-10PM (LAST ORDERS 9:30PM)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: KOBE BEEF / TEPPANYAKI STYLE RESTAURANT
**Please note that this restaurant only welcomes children 10 years of age or older**
The Kobe beef restaurant Mouriya ( you’ll see it recommended in my Kobe with kids post) has a branch in Gion! Make a reservation for Mouriya in Gion here.
Moriya Gion is high end beef so this is a special spot and so for lunch I would budget for 7000 yen per adult and 15,000 yen for dinner. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards and the whole venue is non-smoking. The Mouriya brand have been buying and cooking Kobe for more than 140 years. This restaurant is beautiful and is great for a very special occasion type of dinner.
Dress code is smart casual. This restaurant also can help those who are gluten free – they make gluten free substitutions for sauces and salad dressings.
MOURIYA STEAK GION
京都市東山区大和町7-1祇園モーリヤビル
GION MOURIYA BUILDING, 7-1 YAMATOCHO, HIGASHIYAMA, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY 11:30AM-10:30PM ( LAST ORDER 9PM)
**See here you’re after more information about visiting teppanyaki restaurants while in Japan
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: OKONOMIYAKI & YAKISOBA
If you are craving okonomiyaki – then…Gion Tanto ( Vegan Okonomiyaki Option Available)
It is 21 mins walk from Kiyomizudera ( or 12 mins, approx 900 yen in a cab) or 400 metres from Gion Shijo Station.
Accepts Reservations? YesAccepts Most Major Credit Cards? Yes
Please note that this is NOT a non-smoking restaurant so you may be sat with smoking clientele. For this reason, I recommend going at the start or end of lunch & dinner sessions.
This is a casual hole in the wall style restaurant. It’s fab for people-watching and good local food. The Okonomiyaki is cooked in front of you. Other options include yakisoba ( my kids’ favourite), negiyaki and yaki-udon
They also have a vegan okonomiyaki option.
They have an English menu.
Read here for how to order a vegetarian version of okonomiyaki
I’d budget around 2000 yen per adult for lunch or dinner.
GION TANTO
京都府東山区清本町372
372 KIYOMOTOCHO, HIGASHIYAMA-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR LUNCH 12PM-3PM (LAST ORDERS 2:30PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER 5PM-10PM (LAST ORDERS 9:30PM)
CLOSED SOMETIMES ON THURSDAYS SO CHECK THE GION TANTO WEBSITE
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: CASUAL “MOM & POP” STYLE TEPPANYAKI WITH KIDS IN GION
Teppan Tavern Tenamonya is run by a husband and wife team.
The interior is retro but cosy. For dinner here I would budget around 7000 yen per adult. Reservations are required here (best to book at least 1 week in advance) as the restaurant is small but also popular.
Make sure you try the A5 Wagyu Beef.
This restaurant is fine with kids but they like to know how many children will be there when you make a reservation. They do not have space for strollers and they don’t have high chairs but they do have plastic cutlery and plates.
Little warning: This restaurant is rated highly on TripAdvisor which means that it is often full of international guests more than Japanese people. If this doesn’t appeal, please try one of my other suggested restaurants.
They accept most major credit cards. They have an English menu and a vegetarian menu. Reservations must be made via the Teppan Tavern Tenamonya website.
Teppan Tavern Tenamonya is 10 mins walk from Keihan Gion Shijo Station and Hankyu Kawaramachi Station.
4 mins walk from Maruyama Park.
3 mins walk from Yasaka Shrine.
6 mins walk from Kodaiji Temple.
12 mins walk from the famous traditional Japanese themed Starbucks Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya.
TEPPAN TAVERN TENAMONYA
京都市東山区祇園町に南側537-2 ヒロビル B1F
BASEMENT FLOOR, HIRO BUILDING, 536-2 GION-MACHI, MINAMIGAWA, HIGASHIYAMA, KYOTO
OPEN 5PM-10PM
CLOSED THURSDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: CASUAL KAISEKI STYLE IZAKAYA MEAL WITH KIDS
Just 5 mins walk from Keihan Sanjo Station or 5 mins walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station (or 7 mins walk from Hankyu Kawarachi Station) is family-friendly Kaiseki style Izakaya restaurant Kotowari. If you have older kids, ask to sit at the counter so that you can watch eat dish be cooked and prepared. If you have infants or toddlers, you will be seated in the tatami room (this is better as it is easier for kids to have a wriggle during the meal and less pressure to be quiet.) Kotowari can also prepare a special kids menu if they are given advance notice. They also have children’s plates and cutlery. Here, they accept most major credit cards. Reservations are required to dine here – ask your hotel to make a reservation for you in Japanese. If it’s someone in your group’s birthday, they can organize a birthday dessert plate – with a minimum 3 day notice.
Budget for lunch : 2000 yen per person. Budget for dinner : 4500 yen per person.
KOTOWARI
京都市中京区松ケ枝町463
463 MATSUGAECHO, NAKAGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-2:30PM & 3PM-10PM
A Vegan AND Gluten Free Breakfast, Lunch AND Dinner!
Choice
This is an entirely vegan AND gluten free restaurant in Kyoto. See the menu here.
“Our café is completely free of animal products, including meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and honey. We also do not use any wheat, barley, oats, or rye.”
Children are welcome here and they also have space for strollers.
Where: 1 min walk from Keihan Sanjo Station
Budget: 2000 yen for breakfast & lunch, 4000 yen for dinner
Accepts Reservations? No
Accepts Most Major Credit Cards? Yes
CHOICE
京都市東山区大橋町89-1 鈴木形成外科ビル 1F
GROUND FLOOR, SUZUKI PLASTIC SURGERY BUILDING, 89-1 OHASHI-CHO, HIGASHIYAMA-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR BREAKFAST 9:30AM-11:30AM
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-3PM
OPEN FOR DINNER 5PM-9PM (LAST ORDERS 8PM)
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: RAMEN / IZAKAYA
Hyakusai Beef Noodles is 8 mins walk from Keihan Sanjo Station (take Exit 7.) It is also just a few mins walk from Kyoto Shiyakushomae Station. This is a great spot for when everyone wants to eat something different. As the restaurant name suggests, the restaurants specialises in ramen topped with slices of beef. The ramen noodles are handmade (it’s fun to watch them make them!) and you can choose the width and shape yourself. In addition to ramen, they also have fried chicken and gyoza. They have an english menu. No need to make reservations as this is a walk-in only, casual restaurant (see their instagram for updates or temporary closure dates.) They accept most major credit cards. Children and babies are welcome here.
HYAKUSAI BEEF NOODLES
京都市中京区石橋町14-14
14-14 ISHIBASHICHO, NAKAGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-9:30PM (LAST ORDERS 9PM)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: ALL YOU CAN EAT LUNCH BUFFET
Salvatore Cuomo & Grill is near Sanjo Station – right on the river. Best to make a reservation here. At lunch everyone chooses one main and then can help themselves to as many desserts, sides and salads.
See the lunch menu at Salvatore Cuomo & Grill Kyoto here. This place is great for dinner too (there is an additional 330 yen charge per person at dinner time, 550 yen if you get a seat on the beautiful terrace.) This restaurant is non-smoking.
SALVATORE CUOMO & GRILL, KYOTO
京都市中京区河原町三条東入中島町90 aune京都三条 B1F
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11AM- 2:30PM
OPEN FOR DINNER 5PM-11PM
Where do I like to shop near Nishiki Market?
Just 1 min walk from the market is a store called “Den on the Table” and they sell the most beautiful plates at the most affordable prices (most items are only a few hundred yen.) Open 11am-7pm (until 8pm on Fri & Sat.)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS:GYOZA
Just 9 minutes walk from Nishiki Market is the Gyoza restaurant Chao Chao Gyoza Shijokawaramachi. They are English friendly and serve meat and meat-free gyoza. They also have vegan options. They accept most major credit cards.
This restaurant is also just 10 minutes in a cab (approx 900 yen) from Kiyomizudera or 22 minutes walk.
Their specialty are hitokuchi ( bite sized) gyoza. I would budget for a lunch of around 1500 yen per adult. The “set meals” are around 1300 yen.
serve meat and meat-free gyoza. They also have vegan options.
The restaurant is completely non-smoking.
CHAO CHAO GYOZA SHIJO-KAWARAMACHI
河原町通四条下ル順風町312-1
OPEN ON WEEKDAYS 11:30AM-3PM & 5PM-11PM
OPEN ON WEEKENDS 11:30AM-11PM ( CLOSES AT 9PM ON SUNDAYS)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: SUKIYAKI
3 mins walk from Nishiki Market – Sukiyaki restaurant Taishu Sukiyaki Hokuto Shijo Karasuma is so yummy and they welcome children. It is particularly affordable at lunchtime (sukiyaki lunch sets are 1500 yen!) I recommend making a reservation but you can, of course, try for a walk-in (the restaurant does seat 60 people.) They accept most major credit cards. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. This is an excellent spot for parents to also try different types of hot and cold sake. They have an English menu. This restaurant is 3 mins walk from Shijo Station.
TAISHU SUKIYAKI HOKUTO SHIJO KARASUMA
京都市中京区阪東屋町658 都証券ビル 2F
OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-3PM (LAST ORDERS 2:30PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER 5PM-11PM (LAST ORDERS 10PM)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: GLUTEN FREE AND VEGAN RAMEN & GYOZA
1 min walk from Nishiki Market is a vegan AND gluten free ramen spot called Moon and Back.
Budget 2000 yen per person to dine here. They accept most major credit cards. See the full menu at Moon and Back Kyoto here. Make a reservation for Moon and Back here. This restaurant has space for strollers AND high chairs. They have an English menu.
MOON AND BACK, KYOTO
京都市中京区高宮町585
585 TAKAMIYAKO, NAKAKYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN MIDDAY-4:30PM & 6PM-2AM
OPEN FROM 9:30AM ON WEEKENDS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: SHABU SHABU & SUKIYAKI ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT
I believe that the most family friendly option here is Tajimaya All-You-Can-Eat Shabu Shabu restaurant.
This restaurant is inside the Edion Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi on the 7th floor. Edion Shopping Mall is approx 6 mins walk from Nishiki Market or 10 mins walk from the Gion area.
For lunch I would budget around 1500 yen per person and 4000 yen for dinner. They love and welcome children here. You order as much meat and veggies as you like for 60 or 90 mins and cook the meat in a pot on your own table (don’t worry, they will show you how.) You canfind a simple English menu for Tajimaya here. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. The entire restaurant is very casual (here are some pictures of the interior of this Tajimaya branch.)
Make a reservation in English here (this is the best way to do it as you can order everything in English) AND this is your chance to spell out any dietary requirements and allergies etc.
TAJIMAYA SHIJOKAWARAMACHI
京都府京都市下京区四条通河原町東入真町68番地 住友不動産京都ビルFOOD HALL 7F
EDION DEPARTMENT STORE FOOD HALL, 7TH FLOOR, 68 HIGASHI-IRUSHIN-CHO, KAWARAMACHI, SHIJO-DORI, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY FOR LUNCH 11AM-4PM
OPEN EVERYDAY FOR DINNER 4PM-11PM (LAST ORDERS AT 10:30PM)
Make a reservation in English here (this is the best way to do it as you can order everything in English) AND this is your chance to spell out any dietary requirements and allergies etc.
There is also a baby feeding and changing areas on the 6th floor of this building.
There is also a toy store section down on the B1 floor and many of the trains etc are out for kids to play with.
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: IZAKAYA WITH A FOCUS ON SUSHI, SEAFOOD & TEMPURA
This izakaya Sugidama is completely non-smoking (if you’ve been in Japan for a hot minute, you will know that this is not an easy things to find.). They also are fine for kids to come along.
This is NOT a touristy spot and I mean that in the best way. This is where you will find people dining after work or catching up with a friend. They do have an English menu but don’t be afraid to copy what someone next to you has ordered if it looks amazing (it might be a special not on the ready-made English menu.) If you’d like to say “Please give me the same” (while pointing) say 同じものください onaji mono kudasai.
Remember that at izakayas at dinner time you order lots of small dishes that are designed to be shared (it would be quite weird to order one dish per person.)
While at lunchtime you choose a “lunch set” (there are several to choose from here) per person and it comes out kind of in a big bento style way. At lunch, I recommend getting the sushi & tempura set – it also comes with a soup.
For lunch here, I would budget 2000 yen per adult and approximately 3000 yen per adult at dinner time.
I recommend getting the sashimi of the day and the seasonal vegetable tempura (it comes with two types of salt for dipping and I love this so much more than a tempura sauce). For those with kids who aren’t in a “new food” type of mood – they also have fries.
Sugidama is 1 min walk from Kawaramachi Station and 2 mins walk from Gion Shijo Station.
This restaurant accepts most major credit cards. It is possible to make reservations here – ask your hotel to call for you.
SUGIDAMA, KYOTO KAWARAMACHI
京都市下京区四条通小橋東入橋本町103-2 KCS四条橋本町 B1F
B1 BASEMENT FLOOR, KCS SHIJOBASHI-HONMACHI BUILDING, 103-2 HASHIMOTO-CHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-2:30PM (LAST ORDER AT 2PM)
OPEN WEEKDAYS FOR DINNER 5PM-11PM (LAST ORDER AT 10:30PM)
OPEN WEEKENDS AND NATIONAL HOLIDAYS FOR DINNER 4PM-11:30PM (LAST ORDER AT 11PM)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: VEGAN & ZERO WASTE CAFE & STORE
Another Vegan option just 450 metres from Karasuma Station or 14 mins walk from Nishiki Market is Tu Casa – Plant Based and Zero Waste Cafe. This Kyoto based vegan restaurant serves Korean Bibimbap and some other cookies and breads. They also have a zero waste cafe.
They accept more major credit cards. They also have free wifi.
TU CASA- PLANT BASED AND ZERO WASTE CAFE
414-4 MIYAGAWASUJI 8-CHOME, KYOTO
OPEN MON & TUES 5PM-8:30PM
OPEN WEEKENDS 1PM -8:30PM (ALTHOUGH CHECK THEIR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT FOR THEIR OPENING HOURS CALENDAR)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: THE CITY BAKERY, NISHIKI KOJI
Just 1 min walk from Nishiki Market is The City Bakery. They serve pizza and sandwiches- but you can also just choose from their bakery items and still dine in. The theming of this restaurant’s design is styled to be like a traditional Japanese sweets store. The high ceilings and green views also give it all a very traditional Japanese vibe. This restaurant also serves craft beer. The entire restaurant is non-smoking and they do accept most major credit cards. This restaurant does not accept reservations. I recommend trying a “brookie” -half brownie / half cookie.
THE CITY BAKERY NISHIKI-KOJI
502 NAKAUOYACHO, NAKAGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 8AM-６PM
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS:Lunch and Dinner Suggestion in Kyoto for Gyoza
Motoi Gyoza is just 1 min walk from Nishiki Market. This gyoza restaurant welcomes families with small children and has space to store a stroller while you dine. I recommend budgeting 1500 yen per adult to dine here – no matter what time you go. Motoi Gyoza accept most major credit cards. This is a walk-in restaurant only – no reservations. They do serve vegan gyoza made with okara (soy bean pulp) but they are cooked on the same hot plate as the meat gyoza.
As well as gyoza, this restaurant also serves vegetable salad, roast beef salad, rice and cold chicken confit.
MOTOI GYOZA
中京区柳馬場錦小路下ル瀬戸屋町470-2
470-2 SETOYACHO, NAKAGYOーKU, KYOTO
OPEN TUES-SUN 11AM-9:30PM (LAST ORDERS 9PM)
CLOSED MONDAYS & THE DAY AFTER NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS:Lunch and Dinner Suggestion in Kyoto for a Kirin beer hall with fries, fried chicken, pizza, curry & rice dishes
Just 1 min walk from Nishiki Market you will find Kirin City. They have an English Menu. They accept most major credit cards. Budget 3000 yen for a meal here for an adult and more like 4000 yen at dinner time. Menu options include ice-cream sundaes, pork katsu, pizza, doria, omurice, fries, fried chicken, hamburger steaks. This restaurant is 5 mins walk from Kawaramachi Station. They do accept reservations but they also can seat 64 people so I think it is worth trying your luck as you walk by. See pictures of some of the dishes at Kirin City Shinkyogoku here. The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
KIRIN CITY SHINKYOGOKU
中京区新京極四条上ル レストランスター B1F
BASEMENT FLOOR, RESTAURANT STAR BUILDING, SHIN-KYOGOKU SHIJYOU, NAKAGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY 11:30AM-10PM (LAST ORDERS 9:30PM)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: RAMEN
Tokkyu Ramen
If you’re looking for delicious ( I’m talking really really casual hole in the wall type not a fancy restaurant ) ramen with meat, vegetarian AND vegan options – 5 mins walk from Kodaiji Temple & 11 mins walk from Kiyomizudera is a ramen shop called Tokkyu Ramen. This is a casual Mum & Pop style ramen restaurant (usually only one person behind the counter but service is so fast) and is so yummy. They also sell gyoza. Cash only.
Non-smoking.
TOKKYU RAMEN
30-4 BISHAMONCHO, HIGASHIYAMA-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11:30AM-MIDNIGHT
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
TOKKYU RAMEN WEBSITE (JAPANESE ONLY BUT THERE ARE LOTS OF MENU PICS)
KYOTO RESTAURANTS WITH KIDS: A CASUAL DINER STYLE STEAK RESTAURANT WITH ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAD AND SALAD
10 mins in cab (approx 800 yen) or 5 mins on the train + 4 mins walk on the train from Kyoto Station is Steak Gusto – Gusto is a family restaurant in Japan but when they are a “Steak Gusto” it means that they, obviously, also offer steak but also have all-you-can-eat-bread and salads. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards. They accept reservations and walk-ins. It’s a stand alone restaurant that resembles an American style diner.
KYOTO RESTAURANT: RESTAURANTS CLOSE TO NIJO CASTLE: Where to eat near Nijo Castle
Where to eat with kids near Nijo Castle
1) Kura Sushi Sushi Train
I recommend then stopping by Kura Sushi sushi train restaurant – just 5 mins walk from Nijo Station. This restaurant really requires zero Japanese language skills and is completely automated. It’s easy and so much fun with kids. They are smoke-free and accept most major credit cards. They are open everyday from 11AM-Midnight. It’s very affordable. I’d expect to budget for 1500 yen per adult for lunch or dinner. Sushi train chain Kurasushi have a list of all of their food with common allergens here. (Kurasushi is great when dining with kids and there are lots of cooked non-raw sushi options but if you really love sushi you may be a little disappointed with the raw-fish quality. See here for my tips on what to do in Japan if your kids like to eat westernized versions of sushi or california rolls etc.)
For sushi train options in Japan – Kura Sushi definitely has the most gluten free options (you can even put a filter on the ipad menu to see what is an option for you.)
If you are looking for vegan Kura Sushi options, go or the mango, pineapple or cucumber maki options.
2) Kikyo Sushi
Kikyo Sushi is 4 mins walk from Nijo Castle.
This local Mom&Pop style local sushi and tempura restaurant is quaint and adorable. The staff here speak English well. The restaurant seats 18 so it’s best to make a reservation at Kikyo Sushi Kyoto. The seating is a mixture of counter seats and horigotatsu (kneeling on the floor or sitting on the floor with your feet going into the cut out section of the floor. My kids LOVE this style of seating). The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Kikyo Sushi Kyoto has an English menu. They accept most major credit cards. To eat here I would budget 1000 yen per person for a lunch set and more like 5500 yen per adult for dinner. Almost the entire menu at Kikyo Sushi is gluten free and they also have gluten free soy sauce ( you do need to ask for it.) I recommend ordering the Miso Cod, Teriyaki Salmon and the Nigiri Sushi. Please note that this restaurant is closed on Wednesdays and sometimes on Tuesdays too so before visiting, please check the Kikyo Sushi restaurant’s operation hours here. It’s best to make a reservation (they do keep 4 tables free just for walk-ins.)
KIKYO SUSHI
京都市中京区油子路通丸太町下る大文字町43
43 DAIMONJICHO, ABURAKOJIDORI, MARUTAMACHI-SAGARU, NAKAGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN FOR LUNCH ON WEEKENDS 11:30AM-1:30PM (RESTAURANT CLOSES AT 2PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER WEEKDAYS 5PM-10PM (RESTAURANT CLOSES AT 11PM)
OPEN FOR DINNER WEEKENDS 5PM-9PM (RESTAURANT CLOSES AT 10PM)
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS AND SOMETIMES ON TUESDAYS
3) Premarche Alternative Diner
This organic vegetable restaurant serves pizza, burger and salad and is only 8 mins walk from Nijo Castle. Premarche Alternative Diner also offer some gluten free menu options.
This restaurant accepts most major credit cards and is entirely non-smoking. They also have a vegetarian menu. See here for Premarche Alternative Diner’s full menu. I recommend their vegan avocado and tomato rice bowl. At this restaurant I would budget 1500 yen for an adult lunch and twice that amount at dinner time .
PREMARCHE ALTERNATIVE DINER
京都市中京区橋西町672 プレマヴィレッジ京都堀川三条 2F
2ND FLOOR, 672 HASHINISHICHO, NAKAGYOKU, KYOTO
OPEN EVERYDAY FOR LUNCH 11:30AM-3PM (LAST ORDER 2:15PM)
OPEN EVERYDAY FOR DINNER 5PM-10PM （LAST ORDER 9PM)
4) 400C Pizza Kyoto
Many people agree with me that this restaurant has some of the best pizza they have ever eaten (even the New Yorkers agree!) This restaurant is called 400C Pizza Kyoto. They take reservations. Budget 4500 yen per person. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. This welcomes children who are 6 years and older. This restaurant is 2 mins walk from Marutamachi Station.
400C PIZZA KYOTO
京都市上京区養安町242-25
242-25 YOUANCHO, JYOKYO, KYOTO
OPEN 11AM-6:10PM
CLOSED WEDNESDAYS
Another Kyoto with kids suggestion (see my full list here)
Around 8 mins by car from Kyoto Station is Umekoji Park (or 3 mins or so by train plus a short walk) that has a very decent sized playground and empty train carriages for kids to explore.
I’ve written all the details of Umekoji Park in Kyoto here. The Kyoto Railway Museum is also 3 minutes walk from Umekoji Park.
On the outskirts of the park is also Kyoto Railway Museum. (FYI There is also an aquarium close by too but I haven’t been there yet.)
Where to eat with kids near the Kyoto Railway Museum and Umekoji Park & Playground?
Schole Pizza have a kids menu and accept most major credit cards. They do have some vegetarian pizza options. I recommend budgeting for 2000 yen per adult to eat lunch here and more like 3000 yen a dinner time. They have space to store your stroller while you dine. Should you decide to walk back to Kyoto Station from here it will take approximately 15 mins (so take the train from Umekoji Kyoto Nishi Station instead as that will take just 3 mins or so) They have the standard margherita pizza or 4 cheese pizza type deal here but also this is a good chance to try popular Japanese pizzas such as tuna & corn, seaweed mayo & mentaiko or crispy teriyaki chicken pizza. They also have dessert pizzas such as chocolate marshmallow pizza or apple pie pizza.
You can ask your hotel to make a reservation for you or you can just turn up and try your luck (the restaurant seats 20 people.)
SCHOLE , UMEKOJI
京都市下京区上之町417 ナカキンズフラット
417 NAKA KINS FLAT, KAMINOCHO, SHIMOGYO-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11:30AM-9PM (LAST ORDERS AT 8:30PM)
Or you can go to Soniya for Indian Food. They also have a kids menu (a mild chicken curry.) They accept most major credit cards. It is 4 mins walk from Umekoji Park. I would budget approx 1200 yen per adult when enjoying a meal here. This restaurant is non-smoking. They also do take-out. Closest station to this restaurant is Toji Station. It will take 12 mins to walk to Kyoto Station from here.
SONIYA
京都区南区八条坊門町6-7
6-7 HACHIJOBOMONCHO, MINAMI-KU, KYOTO
OPEN 11AM-3PM & 5PM-10:30PM
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