Wennie Wong

Fine dining. Exquisite care in presentation and preparation. But nothing like the main Kyoto shop. Lunch was a mechanical affair where dishes rolled out with precision as soon as you put your chopsticks down. No time for a slow chit chat or a calm enjoyment of the meal. It’s a complete production line where speed is the essence. Eat fast, they almost seem to say. I was trying slowly to finish my last course as other guests in the same counter left then I felt 4 pairs of service eyes on me as they seem to say hurry up. Tourists or English speaking were all seated at the counter while locals are seated elsewhere mostly at tables. Staff were all lovely, and the ratio of service was nearly 1 staff to 2 guests which was commendable as they spoke in English to explain the menu. For over 10k jpy for lunch, it could be much better.

Coffee shop run by old couple. Service is chaotic, expect to wait. Kaya toast is good: toasty bread with Kaya (home made, not so sweet) on the side. Eggs served in a glass cup and piping hot. Drinks are ok.
The process is, find a seat. Wait. Uncle will come to your table eventually when he has time (he ignores waving) between serving food and cleaning cups off tables. This can take 20-30 mins. Once order is taken, food arrives wiithjn 10mins. Meanwhile we order the hokkien mee which is fairly tasty from the Muslim Chinese couple running the stall, which can also be a 10 mins wait, they sell out by 10.30am.