Autumn in Kyoto brings a sense of anticipation as this historical city warmly invites the arrival of various seasonal culinary treasures that entice both residents and visitors. It’s a time when the city’s cherished fall flavours, rich and comforting, make their much-anticipated return. As you embark on your journey through Kyoto this fall, prepare to savour these exquisite autumnal treats—a once-in-a-year indulgence that promises to delight your taste buds. Read on as we unveil a curated list of must-visit restaurants and cafes to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s fall culinary wonders.

Must-Visit Kyoto Cafes for Autumnal Sweets and Desserts

Patisserie Gion Sakai

Nestled along Hanamikoji Street in Gion, lies the esteemed Gion Sakai, a purveyor of exquisite Western confections celebrated for their delectable and chic offerings. Their sweets and desserts include Chocolates, Sandwich Cookies, Pie, Traditional Confectionery with Japanese-inspired French pastry craftsmanship, and a variety of fusion pieces.

This autumn, spanning from October to November, Gion Sakai unveils a captivating seasonal dessert: the chestnut mousse. This exclusive creation, available only at the cafe, tantalises the palate with a harmonious blend of chestnut mousse, red wine jelly, chestnut cream, and spicy chocolate mousse. It is a true autumnal delight that beckons you to savour its unique flavours.

Malebranche

In the heart of locals a confectionery shop known as Malebranche which has graced the city since 1982. Their signature creation, the Epic Mont Blanc, has garnered the adoration of locals over the years. As autumn and winter embrace Kyoto, Malebranche unveils a limited-time delight—a decadent mont blanc fondant chocolate known as “Marrons de Mar.” This seasonal masterpiece can be purchased at their ‘Daimaru Kyoto’ store, conveniently located within walking distance of Miru Kyoto Nishiki and Miru Kyoto Gion. However, for a truly special experience, take the time to visit their ‘Kitayama Main Store’ and indulge in the exclusive Autumn-only Mont Blanc. Don’t miss this exquisite treat during your visit to Kyoto.

Toraya Kyoto Shijo Minamiza Store

Toraya Kyoto Shijo Minamiza Store, a renowned yokan maker since the 16th century, presents two seasonal delights available until mid-November:

• Kuri Mushi Yokan: A springy yokan filled with carefully selected, high-quality, crumbly chestnut pieces are cooked with great patience and skill by wagashi artisans.
• Kuri Anmitsu: A traditional Japanese dessert with agar jelly cubes, creamy chestnut paste, chestnut toppings, and syrup.

Don’t miss the chance to indulge in these limited-time treats at Toraya Kyoto Shijo Minamiza Store, only a short 7-minute walk from Miru Kyoto Nishiki and an even shorter 2-minute walk from Miru Kyoto Gion.

Best Places to Try Savoury Autumnal Dishes in Kyoto, Japan

Tempura Endo Yasaka in Gion, Kyoto

Nestled near Kenninji Temple in the heart of Gion, Kyoto, you’ll find Tempura Endo Yasaka, an iconic Japanese restaurant. Housed within a century-old sukiya-style building, a traditional teahouse architecture, this revered establishment prides itself on using the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients, skillfully transformed into delectable dishes by expert chefs.

Tempura Endo Yasaka’s course menu takes on the season’s flavours as autumn graces Kyoto. Among their offerings, one standout is the Matsutake Mushroom dish, which you can enjoy in two delightful variations: as a light and crispy tempura or served with dobinmushi, a traditional Japanese broth together with succulent fatty conger eel in a clay pot. Both options capture the essence of Kyoto’s autumn in every bite.

Akagakiya

Akagakiya offers an authentic Japanese dining experience deeply rooted in local traditions. Housed within a charming old machiya house alongside the river, it exudes the timeless Kyoto ambience. Here, guests can savour the region’s essence through local dishes, including izakayas.

With the arrival of autumn, Akagakiya unveils its Seasonal Special Menu, a “Half-Half Sanma,” a dish showcasing the pacific saury mackerel prepared in two distinct yet equally delightful ways: grilled and served as sashimi. If you want to experience Kyoto dining like a local, then Akagakiya is a must-visit.

FUDO

Located near Kyoto Shiyakusho Station on the Tozai Subway Line, Fudo is a Japanese Italian Restaurant that elegantly blends Italian culinary traditions with Japanese ingredients. This seamless fusion resonates with the restaurant’s name, “Fudo,” which draws inspiration from the Japanese word for “natural features.” Skilled chefs at Fudo expertly unite local ingredients with the finesse of Italian cuisine, allowing each dish to embody the essence of Japan’s unique natural features and culture .

This autumn, Fudo introduces a special seasonal menu: Sanma Confit. This slow-cooked risotto dish artfully combines the seasonal saury fish with the zest of fresh ginger and the freshness of wild watercress. It’s an autumnal culinary experience not to be missed.

A vibrant array of seasonal delights await in Kyoto, from the delectable chestnut-infused sweets to an assortment of savoury dishes featuring matsutake mushrooms and saury fish. The city’s dining establishments and cafes are a treasure trove of autumn’s finest flavours, beckoning you to indulge in the season’s culinary delights. If your journey brings you to Miru Kyoto in the near future and you seek personalised recommendations, our dedicated front desk staff is at your service. Feel free to approach them for expert guidance and insights to enhance your culinary exploration of Kyoto’s fall flavours.