An exclusive and highly acclaimed Kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto, known for its innovative approach to traditional Japanese cuisine and its three Michelin stars.
The owner and chef of Gion Sasaki, known for personally greeting guests at his restaurant.
Last updated: 4/22/2026, 11:16:26 AM
Gion Sasaki is an exclusive and highly sought-after Kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto, known for its innovative approach to traditional Japanese cuisine. It features a modern open kitchen setting, allowing diners to observe the culinary process. Securing a reservation is exceptionally difficult, particularly for international visitors or non-Japanese speakers, as the restaurant has been noted to restrict bookings from abroad.
Customer perception is highly polarized. Many praise the restaurant for its exceptional, innovative Kaiseki cuisine, bold flavors, and the owner, Mr. Sasaki's, personal greeting. The open kitchen experience is often highlighted as a positive. However, a significant number of negative reviews stem from the restaurant's policy of not accepting reservations from abroad or non-Japanese speakers, leading to accusations of xenophobia. Some negative experiences also report a subpar dining experience when seated at 'back tables' compared to the main counter, with rushed service, lukewarm food, and a perceived lack of understanding from the chef when negative feedback was given.
Gion Sasaki is located on a quiet street near Kennin-ji in Kyoto. Its reputation for exclusivity and the challenge of obtaining a reservation contribute to its mystique.
No specific best times to visit are mentioned, but given its exclusivity and difficulty in securing a reservation, booking far in advance is essential, if possible at all for international guests.
Beyond its inventive cuisine, Gion Sasaki offers a delightful dining experience in a modern open kitchen setting, complemented by friendly and polite staff, ensuring a memorable visit.
Gion Sasaki remains one of Kyoto's most challenging restaurants to book, offering an exclusive dining experience enhanced by owner Mr. Sasaki's personal greetings to guests.
A recent review highlights Gion Sasaki's inventive Kaiseki cuisine, praising its surprisingly bold flavors and interesting ingredient combinations, all prepared in a modern open kitchen.
Kyoto's renowned Gion Sasaki has achieved the prestigious Three Stars in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide Japan, signifying exceptional cuisine and a destination-worthy dining experience.
Produced by the renowned Gion Sasaki, Sushi Rakumi is a celebrated sushi restaurant nestled in Kyoto's picturesque Gion district, along the cherry blossom trees and Shirakawa river, featuring chefs skilled in Japanese cuisine.
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