Italian food in Kyoto can be either too stuffy or too cheap, like a family restaurant. Amore Kiyamachi (Kiyamachi/Takatsuji) strikes the perfect balance. Complete with a private verandah facing the Kamogawa rice, the front room is more casual with stools and tables for large groups or those popping in for a snack. The back room offers more privacy yet still has an edge with the rough white tables. There is also a large room upstairs for private parties. The food is also no nonsense, no fuss. Definitely recommend the appetizer platter (shown above), conveniently portioned according to number of guests. This is so Kyoto in a way, the insistence of variety and quality over quantity. The pizzas are wood fired and some of the best in Kyoto.