Kyoto 京都: Sushi Azabu Higashiyama || Higashiyama

Tucked away in the beautiful, lush greenery of The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto, there finds the Azabu, an affordable gem that puts a modern, seasonal twist on traditional Edomae-style sushi. The vibe inside beautifully blends classic Japanese aesthetics with a modern touch. 

Sushi Azabu offers great value omakase lunch courses. I knew I have to keep an eye for it when the reservation opens. And yes, I secured my seat and had their Kyoto Gourmet Tour 2025 Autumn course. It was the autumn special limited course priced at 5000yen only with 13 items. It includes an appetizer, sashimi, nigiri sushi, local seasonal dishes, bara chirashi don and also miso soup.

The restaurant has a gorgeous single-slab wooden counter that can fits 8 persons only and 2 tables that can be turned into semi-private spaces. 

The chef will design the ingredients used for the menu and changes constantly according to what's fresh, availability and in season. 

The chefs here are incredibly passionate about honouring local producers and letting the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine. 

Turnip

Hamachi (Amberjack)

Madai (Red Snapper)

Sawara from Hyogo

Shiitake Sushi

Hotate (Scallop)

Azabu also has a fantastic curated list of about 10 different sakes from all over Japan, featuring some amazing local Kyoto brews. 

Nichi Nichi Sake from Kyoto

Akami

Goma Tofu

Chutoro

Amaebi Sushi

Toro Taku Sushi 

- minced fatty tuna belly mix with small bits of crunchy yellow pickled daikon radish.

Bara Chirashi

Miso Soup

Steamed egg with custard

They serve everything on stunning, locally made Kyoto pottery plates, which makes the experience feel even more special. 

ごちそうさまでした. Thank you for the foods! It's definitely the perfect spot to kick back, relax and enjoy an affordable & unforgettable meal! Happy tummy & happy wallet. 

Sushi Azabu Higashiyama

409 1F The SODOH Higashiyama Kyoto, Minamimachi, Higashiyama Ward, 605-0824 Kyoto, Japan

Reservation here!