Hidden away in the heart of the bustling market on Nishiki Dori is a tiny little alleyway that leads to Hale (晴). This is a fully organic and vegan restaurant, specializing in seasonal dishes, yuba tofu and Kyoto’s famously distinctive vegetables. For lunch you can have a set meal or the “Special Lunch” which costs a bit more. I settled for the standard set lunch which you can see amid the pictures below and which was more than ample enough for me.
Even if you are not vegetarian, Hale is worth a visit for its traditional cuisine or just to spend a pleasant hour or so in a peaceful old machiya house quietly contemplating the central garden.
A wide range of beverages are also available, coffees, teas, soy drinks, juices, beers and shochu and even something made of dandelions – but I didn’t go for that.
To find Hale walk along Nishiki Dori between the Fuyacho and Tominokoji streets and look out for that little alleyway on the north side of the market. Here is a most helpful map. Hale is both small and popular so making a reservation at least one week in advance is recommended.
Opening hours: 12.00-14.30
Closed: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Tel: 075-231-2516
This article checked and updated in June, 2025.
Text and images by Michael Lambe. All rights reserved.
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