Shozan-kaku Ryotei (Kyo-ryori Kaiseki)

The expression "out of this world" takes on a different meaning at Shozan-kaku 松山閣. Located a good 30 minute drive from downtown Kyoto in the northwest mountains, the restaurant is situated literally on the side of a mountain. After entering the gate, the strolling path under the maple and cherry trees, immediately lets you forget the world you left behind. EDK featured a "autumn yuba lunch" this month, visiting Shozan-kaku's own tofu and yuba factory and enjoying a kaiseki lunch featuring tofu fresh out of the factory. Highlights were not just the fabulous kaiseki cuisine with sake, but also the autumn leaves that were in peak colours. 

With owner Matsuyama-san (bottom right)

View of mountains along path

Hiki-age yuba (fresh yuba) in traditional "oke" bucket

Ode to the Bento

When you mention "bento" to ex-pats in Japan, most will think of 399 yen fried chicken boxes at the local convenience (and there are many!). Yet, there is a whole different level to bento, the traditional kaiseki bento. Like a kaiseki meal, these bento usually include items that are prepared in a variety of ways: raw (sashimi), boiled, fried, pickled, etc... This one pictured above sells for 2,800 yen from Rakusei Okada in Western Kyoto. Definitely no "conbini" bento" No plastic here. All real ceramic ware delivered and picked up later. A feast for the eyes and mouth!