In the heart of Kyoto around the corner from the big white and red tower is a little foreigner-friendly steak bowl joint called Ginjiro.
Ginjiro, often known as “Steak and Wine Ginjiro,” is an iconic store just around the corner from Kyoto station. The big wooden sign with the capital letters is quite captivating and has an interesting modern-traditional allure.
Artistic dining area
There’s definitely a “French vibe” when you walk into the Ginjiro store in Kyoto.
Colorful wall art with the writing bienvenue au Japon, Kyoto is written across the wall, which I can only assume means “Welcome to Japan, Kyoto.”
The staff are fluent in English (and probably French too) and the menus are written in English, French, and Japanese.
Steak bowls, fried chicken, great price!
Steak bowls seem to be a take on Japan’s iconic gyudon (beef rice bowls) but with a European twist.
Instead of stringy gyudon-style beef, Ginjiro uses thin slices of freshly cut medium-cooked steaks that are tender and juicy.
The steak and rice is topped with lettuce, French salad dressing, and a Japanese egg yolk to create an interesting fusion of cuisines.
In the heart of Kyoto!
Ginjiro is one of those stores you’ll likely run into without a map as it’s perfectly positioned on a busy street corner near Kyoto Tower.
It might not be the most “Japanese” cuisine you’re looking for, but it’s certainly not a bad way to ease into Japanese culture if you’re somewhat new to it.
Personally, as someone who is quite well-versed in Japanese food, I found it to be a nice little twist on the standard dishes that are all too common in Japan.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!