For refined yakitori in traditional surroundings, Kushikura is a sure bet. Because they can do shio-yaki (salt-grilled) chicken, it’s a good choice gluten-free diners.

Kushikura interior – image © Chris Rowthorn
Located in a fine traditional machiya building on the north edge of downtown, Kushikura serves some fantastic yakitori (the “kushi” in the name refers to the skewers on which the yakitori is cooked) both as part of filling set meals and a la carte.
There are several nice private rooms for families and groups, as well as a great counter where you can watch the chefs at work.
They’re quite used to foreign diners here and they have an English/picture menu. We recommend reservations for dinner.
Name in English:
Kushikura
Name in Japanese:
串くら
English address:
584 Hiiragi-cho, Takakura-dori-Oike-agaru, Nakagyo-ku
Japanese address:
中京区高倉通御池上ル柊町584
Opening hours:
11:30am-2:30pm, 5pm-10:30pm
Price: moderate
Non-smoking area: completely non-smoking
Nearest Transport:
4min walk from Karasuma Oike Station Exit 1, Karasuma and Tozai subway lines
Reservations:
Possible
Telephone: 213-2211
Website:
Official site (English)
Near To Here:
Kushikura is located in Kyoto’s Downtown district. See our complete list of things to do in Downtown Kyoto, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
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