Food is a universal language; it’s what we use to connect to one another.
It’s also a very important aspect in many cultures. Trying a different food in a foreign country lets me integrate into the culture. Kyoto had a spectacular selection of foods, and I got to try a lot of it during my three-day stay. Here are the top 10 foods I had in Kyoto.
No. 10 Soup dumplings: Gihanebisudo Sanjo
These soup dumplings were soft and a nice warm blanket. It was the perfect combination of chewy and juicy, a great comfort dish. The dish comes with two dumplings and is served on a bamboo steamer to keep them warm.
No. 9 Pork dumplings: Gihanebisudo Sanjo
Large pieces of pork were carefully wrapped in steamed dough like a blanket. It was perfectly bite-size, coming in a trio which made it a great appetizer. The flavor of the pork is strong and well-seasoned without being too overpowering.
No. 8 Veggie gyoza: Gihanebisudo Sanjo
A staple of Japanese cuisine, these pan-fried dumplings were filled with finely chopped vegetables. The browning gave it a slightly smokey flavor that contrasted the vegetables. The plate comes with six gyoza dumplings which makes it a great sharable for the table.
No. 7 Combination fried rice: Gihanebisudo Sanjo
A more traditional Chinese food, this fluffy rice was packed with flavor. With pork, chicken and shrimp, this rice was a great dish to accompany the rest of the food. Because of all the inclusions of the rice, it can also be enjoyed on its own.
No. 6 Spicy cucumber: Kagayakitei
One of my favorite appetizers, spicy cucumber, is the perfect combination of tangy yet refreshing. Topped with sesame seeds and chili flakes this crunchy dish is the perfect way to start your meal.
No. 5 Matcha ice cream: Mamemasa at Kinkaku-ji Temple
Near the golden pavilion at Kinkaku-ji Temple, a café serves a delicious matcha ice cream. This refreshing treat had the perfect amount of green tea flavor. The combination of the silky ice cream and the crunchy waffle cone made it a great treat on a hot summer day.
No. 4 Chili fried chicken: Kagayakitei
Japanese fried chicken, or known as karaage, are bite-sized pieces of chicken that are marinated in ginger, garlic and soy sauce. It is then covered in potato starch and deep-fried. The addition of the sweet and spicy chili sauce created the perfect balance.
No. 3 Nigiri: Kagayakitei
Japanese seafood is on a whole different level. That was prevalent in the nigiri’s quality and taste. The raw fish was fresh and tasty, and the rice was a nice neutral base for it. Dipping it in soy sauce added some saltiness to it.
No. 2 Bacon, egg and cheese toast: Kamee Coffee
This dish brought me back home. Bacon, egg and cheese is a combination that I have eaten many times back home, but this is the first time I’ve had it on toast. The fried egg on top with the soft yolk elevated the dish and helped combine the flavors of the cheese and bacon.
No. 1 Matcha: Ten Café & Gift Shop
The city of Kyoto is known for being the birthplace of matcha, which means they have the best quality. That was apparent in this matcha latte, especially with the bright, vibrant green color. The cold foam and the sprinkle of matcha powder on top helped enhance the flavors. It is the best matcha I have ever had. Overall, the latte was smooth, creamy and the perfect sweetness which is why it takes the top spot.
The ancient capital of Japan had plenty of food options. Just like the city, the food was a combination of traditional and new Japanese culture. From Dim Sum to dessert, there’s something for everyone in Kyoto.
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