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Yuzugen Pontocho

3.8 424 reviews 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM 212 Nabeyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8015, Japan

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Yuzugen Pontocho, nestled in the scenic Pontocho area of Kyoto, is a hidden gem that artfully blends traditional hotpot dining with a refreshing twist. Known for its unique yuzu broth, this Chinese restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its flavorful and light dishes. Diners have praised the fresh seafood offerings, particularly the signature sea bream and the vibrant pomelo hotpot. Customer Sydnie Dempelein applauded the broth's distinct flavor, while Yvonne S highlighted its aromatic balance and beautifully presented selections, including fried fish and shrimp. Visitors are enchanted not just by the food but also by the restaurant's ambiance. Jane Chittick-Sinclair noted the charming artistry surrounding the dining experience, complemented by the friendly staff who craft dumplings right before your eyes. While the upstairs seating offers a traditional tatami experience, be ready for a steep climb and cozy settings, as described by Tadd Wun and Kaiyong Chiu. Overall, Yuzugen Pontocho delivers a delightful dining experience filled with fresh flavors, cozy surroundings, and the comforting essence of home-cooked meals. If you're seeking a truly memorable hotpot adventure in Kyoto, this place is a definite must-try.

Photos

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Amenities & More

Service options

  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Delivery

Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Dining options

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Restroom
  • Smoke-free place
  • Wi-Fi

Crowd

  • Tourists
Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Yuzugen Pontocho before visiting.

Reviews for Yuzugen Pontocho

3.8
424 reviews
5
100%
4
40%
3
21%
2
5%
1
24%

Review highlights

Based on 424 reviews

Yuzugen Pontocho is widely praised for its distinctive yuzu and pomelo-infused hot pot broths, which offer a refreshing and uniquely flavorful dining experience. Customers frequently highlight the freshness and quality of the seafood and meats, particularly the fish and beef selections. The restaurant’s traditional ambiance, including floor seating and visible preparation of dumplings, adds to its authentic charm. Generous vegetable portions and the innovative use of leftover broth to create a savory porridge are appreciated touches. While the setting upstairs features a notably narrow staircase, overall, the attentive staff and artistic decor contribute positively to the dining experience. The balance of lightness and robust flavors is a recurring theme in the feedback.

Sydnie Dempelein
Oct 06, 2025

Some of the best hot pot I’ve ever had. Such a unique flavor with the yuzu broth. The dumplings were delicious too.

Tadd Wun
Oct 06, 2025

Went to this place at random… wanted to try something different. It’s a hotpot( like steamboat) with fresh Sea bream as their signature. The broth was interesting n tasty. BUT beware if you’re having your meal upstairs! The staircase was super narrow n steep! What an experience! We had our meal like in a traditional style - on the floor! Haha

Yvonne S
Oct 04, 2025

A truly delicious meal! The pomelo hotpot was recommended by a friend. At first, it looked quite ordinary in photos, but it turned out to be incredibly flavorful and perfectly balanced in taste, aroma, and presentation! We ordered the fish and shrimp set, which included fried fish, fresh raw shrimp, and fish slices. The seafood’s freshness combined with the subtle fragrance of pomelo created a unique and delightful experience. Highly recommend giving it a try!

Jane Chittick-Sinclair
Sep 23, 2025

Loved this place, the staff were so nice, saw them making the dumplings in front of you. The light yuzu flavour running through everything was different and the food felt a lot lighter than other meals we have had. Also their artwork is beautiful

kaiyong chiu
Aug 28, 2025

This restaurant is pretty unique, selling yuzu soup, a bit on the sour side but it's refreshing. Ordered the pork and beef food. Vegetable given is plenty, like a mountain of it, do not need to add on additional vegetable. Beef is delicious, pork is so-so. Add on the rice and egg, which is cooked with the soup After finishing all your food. It becomes a porridge that soaks up all the essence of the soup. I think this add on of rice is a need for everyone! When approaching the restaurant, do not be disheartened if you see the first floor is full, they have a second floor, tatami style dinner.. The tatami cushion is not the cleanest, second floor looks a little old, but is not too bad.

Jane Bornholdt
Jul 29, 2025

Fabulous hotpot restaurant. Very friendly staff, pretty good English spoken and most importantly delicious food. We had the pork hotpot which was tasty and very generous and the spicy meat noodles which were true to their title and equally generous.

J Baker
Jul 27, 2025

Food was the best we had in Kyoto! Service was exactly what it needed to be. Chefs working hard preparing the best quality meat, handmade dumplings (right in front of you) and vegetables for the amazing broth. The place was vibing. This restaurant is such an underrated gem! Makes us want to come back to Kyoto just to eat here again.

M Ortiz (Epicurean Explorer Rater)
Jul 08, 2025

A gem tucked into one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric streets. The restaurant specializes in yuzu flavors, and you can really taste the freshness in every dish—bright, citrusy, and perfectly balanced. The setting is intimate, with that classic Pontocho charm right by the river, making it ideal for both a relaxed dinner and a special night out. Staff are kind and attentive, and the pace of service lets you really savor the experience. If you love unique, seasonal Japanese flavors, this is a must-visit in Kyoto.

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Quick info

Address
212 Nabeyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8015, Japan
Category
Chinese restaurants

Opening hours

  • Monday (Today) 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday Closed
  • Wednesday 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Saturday 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Sunday 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

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