Ryoriya Maekawa

The story

Ryoriya Maekawa: Michelin-Starred Japanese Cuisine in Kyoto

A Free-Spirited Approach to Japanese Cuisine

At Ryoriya Maekawa in Kyoto, the kitchen works with a guiding principle: cooking without boundaries. “We use carefully selected seasonal ingredients to offer a new sensation in Japanese cuisine,” the restaurant explains. Dishes are not confined to a single genre or cooking method—instead, they evolve with the seasons and the ingredients themselves. This philosophy earned the restaurant a Michelin star in 2026, recognizing high quality cooking that is both rooted in tradition and open to fresh ideas.

Seasonal Ingredients and Simultaneous Service

The dining experience is built around a shared moment. All courses are served at the same time so that every guest can enjoy the full expression of the meal together. Lunch and dinner follow a simultaneous start, creating a focused, convivial atmosphere. The menu changes with the year, drawing on the best of each season. Whether you come for the midday or evening service, the kitchen offers Japanese cuisine that feels both familiar and surprising.

A Hidden Space in Central Kyoto

Ryoriya Maekawa occupies a quiet spot just a five-minute walk from the bustling Shijo Kawaramachi intersection. The restaurant describes itself as a “hidden” place, where guests can relax and let their senses take over. The interior features a 10-seat counter and a private room for up to eight on the second floor. The mood is calm and unpretentious, inviting you to set aside everyday concerns and focus on the food and company. Reservations are required, and the kitchen accommodates dietary needs where possible, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.