Top 5 Restaurants in Kyoto to Enjoy Fresh Crab Dishes

Kyoto, known for its rich culinary traditions and exquisite seafood, offers a plethora of dining experiences for those seeking to indulge in fresh crab dishes. Here are the top 5 restaurants in Kyoto where you can savor the best of crab cuisine.

1. Miyako Kaniza

Located in the heart of Kyoto's business district, Miyako Kaniza is a seafood specialty store housed in a traditional Kyoto townhouse. This restaurant stands out for its reasonable prices and diverse menu offerings. You can enjoy crab in various preparations such as hot pot (starting from 1,980 JPY), sushi (from 980 JPY), and tempura (1,280 JPY). A popular lunch option is the rice bowl topped with crab, roe, or salmon, starting at 980 JPY. The menu is available in English, Chinese, and Korean, and the staff speaks English, making it accessible to international visitors.

2. Kani Doraku Kyoto Fushimi Branch

Kani Doraku is a well-known franchise with multiple locations in the Kansai and Kanto regions. The Fushimi Branch in Kyoto offers authentic crab dishes in a setting with beautiful garden views. Here, you can enjoy a range of crab preparations while taking in the serene atmosphere. The restaurant's focus on quality and presentation makes it a must-visit for crab enthusiasts.

3. Morishige

Located in the Joyo area of Kyoto, Morishige is renowned for its charcoal-grilled crabs. The snow crabs are carefully selected and cooked quickly over Bincho charcoal in a shichirin, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Another highlight is the boiled snow crabs, which are cooked in seawater with kelp. The Morishige Course (6,800 JPY) and the Morishige Tokudoku Course (7,800 JPY) are highly recommended for a full crab experience. For women, the afternoon kaiseki (2,940 JPY) is a popular option.

4. Chikurin

Situated in Miyazu, northern Kyoto, Chikurin is a reservation-only restaurant that specializes in live crab dishes. The owner personally selects the crabs and prepares them in front of the customers. The full course features a whole live crab and costs 19,800 JPY. You can enjoy crab in various ways, such as "Kani Shabu" (crab cooked in hot broth) and "Kani Zosui" (rice cooked with leftover soup). This unique dining experience highlights the freshness and sweetness of the crab.

5. Kyoto Kanigin Kawaramachi Ten

Kyoto Kanigin Kawaramachi Ten is a popular spot for all-you-can-eat crab, offering king crab, snow crab, red snow crab, and spiny snow crab. Located near Kawaramachi Station, this restaurant also serves sushi and a la carte dishes. The all-you-can-eat option makes it an excellent choice for those who want to indulge in a variety of crab dishes without worrying about the cost.

Additional Tips for Dining

• Reservations: Many of these restaurants, especially Chikurin, require reservations. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability.
• Seasonal Availability: Taiza Crab, for example, is available from early November to the end of the year, sourced from the port town of Kyotango in northern Kyoto Prefecture. Understanding seasonal availability can enhance your dining experience.
• Menu Variety: Each restaurant offers a range of crab dishes, from hot pot and sushi to grilled and boiled options. Checking the menu beforehand can help you choose the perfect dish to suit your taste.
• Ambiance: Restaurants like Miyako Kaniza and Kani Doraku Kyoto Fushimi Branch offer unique dining environments, such as traditional townhouses and garden views, which can add to the overall dining experience.

By visiting these top 5 restaurants, you can experience the best of Kyoto's crab cuisine, each offering unique preparations and settings that will make your dining experience memorable.