The Hiramatsu Kyoto is set in a converted 120-year-old Kyoto machiya on Muromachi-dori,
breathing new life into this historic dwelling.
IZUMI – an exceptional dining experience with the finest Japanese cuisine, reflecting Kyoto’s four seasons,
and a view of a garden so peaceful you would never think was in the centre of a big city.
CONCEPT
IZUMI is a small, 12-seat restaurant that encapsulates the beauty of a Kyoto machiya townhouse. Every detail of the décor embodies craftsmanship and tradition, from the simple yet refined wood, clay and paper used in the décor to the single plank of zelkova wood used to make the counter. After experiencing just a little tension as you take your seat, you settle down to enjoy the “Chef’s Recommendations Menu”. As you savour each beautifully presented dish, prepared using delicious seasonal ingredients, you relax, unwind, and experience true bliss.
CUISINE
Muromachi-dori takes its name from the Muromachi Period, and is on the route of the Gion Festival processions. IZUMI’s cuisine reflects Chef’s respect and love for this historic location. The way that he visits a nearby well every day, to draw delicious Kyoto water, and soaks konbu in it overnight to make stock, illustrates his philosophy: “Spend as much time and effort on looking after tomorrow’s customers as you spend on today’s customers.” In this way, the finest seasonal ingredients available on the day are transformed into exquisite cuisine.
CHEF
Shohei Masaki was born in Saga Prefecture and trained for nine years at the ryotei Kyoto Kiccho in Arashiyama. After a time as head chef at a kappo restaurant in Gion, and a period at Hiramatsu’s Kodaiji Jugyuan, he was appointed head chef at Izumi. He honours the fundamentals of Japanese cuisine, bringing out the best in fresh seasonal ingredients.