Minoriko

Green bean tofu, grated yuba and puréed, strained pumpkin are among the dishes people recall from Minoriko. These are delicate, nourishing preparations that let the ingredients’ natural sweetness come through. One diner remembered how that sweetness spread across the palate, rather than being masked by strongly flavoured dashi. It’s Kyoto-style cooking for anyone who wants to take time over each dish’s distinctive character.

Japanese sake, selected to pair with the food, is another part of the experience. Some diners describe leaving the food and sake choices to the restaurant, while others were matched with a different sake for each dish. You might also tell the owner what you like and ask for a recommendation. Even if you don’t know much about sake, it should be easy to explore pairings by discussing them alongside the food. One review also notes that the sake can be enjoyed in small pours, with several varieties over the course of the meal.

Menu possibilities include charcoal-grilled young ayu, sashimi of kinki, flounder or isaki, and shrimp and hamo in a mushroom-thickened sauce. For an evening of seasonal fish and small dishes with a drink, both the food and sake can guide your choices. The restaurant is described as having a calm atmosphere, and reservations are recommended for dinner. If you’re planning to take your time over the meal, it’s worth booking ahead.