Akibako Hanare - Wine by the river

If you need a place for a quiet drink in the middle of Gion and don't have your gold card with you, Akibako is the place. The name literally means "empty box" and the bar appears to be built almost entirely of wine crates. Excellent location too, right by the Shirakawa stream. Wines by the bottle from 3,000 yen. You can't go wrong.

Kiev - Russian adventure in Kyoto

Across the street from the famous Minami-za theatre is not where you'd expect to find a Russian restaurant. But on the 6F of Oto building is 40 year old Kiev, a gastronomic institution in Kyoto. Strongly recommend the cabbage rolls! For the adventurous, try the Ukraine red wine. 

Cafe Lucca - Oasis in downtown Kyoto

Right off of the Teramachi shopping street downtown is Cafe Lucca (Rokkaku/Shingyokuku), named after the Italian town. If you need a break from the shopping and hordes of people, this is where you need to go! Beer and wine menu available and open late.

La Masa - Flaming Shrimps

Here's owner Kinoshita-san doing a nice photo bomb of our shrimp ajillo. The raw oysters were also divine. La Masa is the first of four Spanish restaurant he runs, the other being El Fogon, La Gallega and Fuigo. Each has its own atmosphere and flavour, but La Masa's cozy atmosphere and a loyal group of regulars make it a classic. Great ajillo too!

Yuuki 遊亀

The name literally means "playful turtle" but Yuuki, located in the heart of the Gion entertainment district, serves a variety of seafood, mostly fried or tempura style. Great place to experience a traditional "izakaya" atmosphere (1st floor recommended), not to mention excellent dishes that won't blow a hole in your wallet.  This is notable considering Yuuki's central location. The menu is literally written on the walls, and the sake list is extensive.