Sumibi Kappo Ifuki

Tucked away in the quiet backstreets of Gion, Sumibi Kappou Ifuki is housed in a beautifully restored traditional Kyoto machiya townhouse. The moment you step inside, the space feels intimate, simple, and atmospheric — a perfect reflection of understated Kyoto elegance. The cozy ambiance and minimalist decor allow you to focus entirely on what truly matters here: the food and the hospitality. The service is warm, graceful, and effortlessly attentive, exactly what you’d expect from a two-Michelin-starred kappou restaurant. For the main courses, you can choose from three different options — we tried the kinki snapper, sea bass, Tajima fillet, and beef tongue. Each dish was a highlight in its own way: perfectly grilled over charcoal, with incredible tenderness, deep umami, and balanced flavors that linger beautifully. Presentation was exquisite, as expected, with a sense of quiet artistry in every course. If there’s one small regret, it’s that we sat in a private room rather than at the counter, so we could not enjoy the live charcoal cooking up and its smoky aroma. At the end of the evening, Chef Yamamoto and his wife personally walked us to the door. Thank you. A truly memorable dining experience.

I was expecting more from a Michelin restaurant with such great reviews. We were seated in a room which was similar to someone’s bedroom with a table some bookshelves and an air conditioner. The food was all good but not amazing. Traditional service was excellent. Just an underwhelming experience.

we were seated upstairs in a very kyoto traditional deco room, felt like VIP. Staffs were friendly and explained every dish to us with pictures and google translate. Every dishes were well made and taste was right on. Chef came out to have a chat with us when were were leaving. Great experience in Gion area.

Enjoyable 3-hour dinner. Their grilled dishes though looked simple were consistently superb over the years. Cordial service by okami-san.

We were lucky enough to get the private dinning room on the 1st floor. Food is great and the service is also very good. Worth visiting.

The essence of "Kaiseki" cuisine, the dinner of "Kyoto", the ingredients, the taste is fundamental, too clean, kind owner.

Absolutely amazing dinner by the various high-quality ingredients and fresh materials on the season! Every dish served in a rhythm on right temperature! Well worth the money as it exceeded our expectation, period. Highly recommand anyone who love Japnese cuisine as this is a gem in Kyoto! Thanks!

The best dinner I have ever had.