BALMIL

We had the most incredible meal here! We ordered the vegetarian set menu that came with 4 courses including corn chips with salsa and guacamole (or nachos if you prefer), a tasty salad, quesadillas, and tacos which was great value at only 5,000 yen for 2 people and very satisfying. We also tried a few of the cocktails (they can make over 300 different ones!) which were all delicious as well. The food was exceptional, some of the best Mexican food I’ve ever had! The use of Japanese ingredients like soy and wasabi complemented the traditional Mexican flavours so well and the wasabi bbq seasoning is a must try on your tacos. The owner was working behind the bar and was so welcoming and friendly. He gave us some great tips for our travels around Kyoto and even wrote out a handy card in Japanese for us to show other restaurant staff explaining our dietary restrictions which was super nice of him. The chef also came and said hello and made us some great cocktails too. This is only a small venue with counter seats and a couple of small tables but the service was super warm and inviting, the food came out fast, and it was one of the best meals we had in Japan which is saying a lot in a country known for its incredible food scene. I highly recommend it to everyone but especially vegetarians as it can be tricky finding places that are both so accomodating and delicious. The venue is foreigner friendly and the staff spoke excellent English too which was a bonus. We were lucky to be able to just walk in on a Friday night but they do take bookings online as well.

The shop has a great atmosphere. The staff speak English, so I think there are a lot of foreign customers.

This is an hidden gen in the Kyoto's city center. Food is amazing, cocktails are delicious, and the atmosphere is incredible. Add to that the friendliest staff you can have and you will feel just at home. Please, make myself a favor and visit this place, you won't regret it!