473 Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan
¥¥¥¥ ・ Japanese
Two Stars: Excellent cooking
Born and raised in Kyoto, Masayoshi Nishikawa has been refining his beloved Kyoto cuisine since he was a boy. The meal starts with a cup of yuzu liqueur, setting the mood of gracious hospitality. In the decorative sashimi, rather than soy sauce, Nishikawa seasons sea bream with boiled condensed sake, and shellfish with mustard-vinegared miso. He goes to Yasaka Shrine to draw water for his soup stock. For the final palate cleanser, he personally makes and serves tea, forming a bond with his guests through conversation.