Daisen

Sizzling sounds and fragrant steam drift across the counter griddle at Daisen, a teppanyaki shop nestled in Kyoto's Mibu Matsubaracho neighbourhood. Opening its doors in the evening at 5:00, the establishment welcomes diners with warm, freshly cooked fare and easygoing hospitality.

The signature okonomiyaki spans a generous variety of flavours, from savoury squid (ikatama) to sujikon featuring slow-simmered beef tendon paired with the chewy bite of konjac, along with fully loaded mixed varieties. Each savoury pancake is cooked meticulously on the hot teppan right in front of you, offering a substantial portion to slice apart piping hot while enjoying a cold beer.

Beyond classic savoury pancakes, the griddle yields an array of noodle dishes and side plates, including pork yakisoba, omusoba folded in a thin omelette, and Kyoto's signature betayaki. Grazing on beef tendon and vegetable stir-fries, pork kimchi, or crisp chijimi pancakes makes for an evening imbued with the relaxed warmth of a home-cooked meal.