01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Located in Nishinokyo Shokushicho, Nakagyo Ward, En is an izakaya where diners can take their time over seasonal Japanese small plates and an extensive sake lineup. The menu spans charcoal-grilled dishes highlighting ingredients at their peak alongside varied savory plates, all complemented by sake pairings recommended on the spot by the owner.
Tempura is served with a house-blended seasoning salt, featuring classic choices such as shrimp and sillago alongside distinctive Kyoto specialties like fresh kumiage yuba (silky tofu skin) and awa-fu (millet wheat gluten), available individually or as chef-selected assortments. Among the cooked dishes, the Saikyo miso yuba gratin stands out for its balance of gentle miso sweetness and velvety richness, earning praise as a natural partner for sake. The kitchen also prepares round eggplant dengaku, charcoal-grilled Manganji peppers, slow-braised beef cheek in red wine, and pork kakuni simmered patiently for half a day.
Spanning local Kyoto brews and labels from across Japan, the sake list ranges from crisp, unpasteurized Junmai Muroka Nama Genshu to rich, savory Junmai. Consulting with the owner, who is a certified kikizakeshi (sake sommelier), is part of the pleasure of an evening here. With both counter seating and quiet tables, the space suits solo diners as well as relaxed dinners with friends. Given the limited seating, booking ahead for evening visits is recommended.
