Some people use Tablelog to book, I’ve never done this.We are taking a friend to Kyoto in August. She wants to try a Kaiseki restaurant. When we went several years ago, we were able to ask our hotel to reserve a place two months in advance. This time around, our hotel (a different more upscale one) told us that their hotel policy is to make reservation only when we are physically there. Wanting to make sure that we get a table, I tried various methods, the Chase/Amex concierge service could not help us because all of these Kaiseki places require reservation to be made by our hotel (hence speaking Japanese). There are sites such as "pocket concierge" and "my concierge japan." Has anyone used them? A better question, what is the best way to get a reservation?
Getting good reservations does require a personal connection. I’ve had a guide I knew personally guarantee that she and her husband would dine in our place if we no-showed for a Michelin restaurant. If you are a frequent visitor of a hotel, and established a relationship, the concierge may help you in advance.
If you are staying in an upscale hotel, it likely has a great kaiseki restaurant. Go for it!
Finally, our Japanese friends in Kyoto hosted us at a great restaurant, Isshinkyo. Last I noticed, it took reservations in advance.
Enjoy!
Statistics: Posted by Cruise — Thu Jun 06, 2024 2:14 am — Replies 8 — Views 830