wabiya

Stepping through the alley and opening the door, guests are quietly welcomed by the warm glow of a wood fire dancing along the counter at wabiya. This intimate retreat opened in 2023 as a sister restaurant to wabiya Korekido, the beloved establishment founded in Kyoto’s Gion district in 2002.

Leading the restaurant is Executive Chef Tatsuyuki Akiyama, who has guided wabiya Korekido to enduring success for over two decades. Through years of exchange with countless Kyoto chefs, he is largely self-taught in the art of charcoal grilling, later refining his craft by incorporating the wood-fire techniques he fell in love with during training in Spain. With deep dedication to chicken, vegetables, charcoal, and firewood, he has pioneered a new approach to yakitori.

The restaurant offers a single omakase course built around the theme of bringing out each ingredient’s true character. Ingredients include Kyoto jidori chicken from Fukuchiyama, Nanaya duck from Kameoka, and seasonal vegetables from across Kyoto. Drawing on his extensive experience, Chef Akiyama switches between charcoal and wood fire depending on the ingredient, applying meticulous preparation and minimal seasoning to maximize its natural flavor. From steamed chicken to wood-fired vegetables and signature yakitori, each dish offers a lingering finish of aroma and depth.

Inside, the space feels like being welcomed into a private retreat. The open kitchen showcases the chef’s craftsmanship up close, while the wood-fired kiln at the back serves as the symbolic heart of the restaurant. With only eight counter seats encircling the hearth, the setting offers an intimate atmosphere ideal for sharing meaningful moments with someone special.

The culinary experience is elevated by an exceptional drink selection curated by sommelier Nakaya. The wines are carefully chosen to complement the aromas and umami drawn out by charcoal and wood. Guests can enjoy pairings tailored to each skewer and course, or savor a bottle at a leisurely pace from the diverse international collection. Every pairing enhances the yakitori and enriches the overall dining experience, creating moments of true indulgence.

• Price Range:

  Dinner: USD 105.73 - USD 105.73

• Dietary restrictions / Allergies:

  If you have any specific food allergies or ingredients you cannot consume, please inform us in advance. Unfortunately, we cannot accept reservations if there are ingredients that you cannot eat within a wide range.

  【Ingredients / Requests We Cannot Accommodate】

  ・Vegan and halal requests cannot be accommodated.

  ・Gluten (including soy sauce and miso)

• Arrival time:

  Please arrive at least 5 minutes before your reservation time to ensure that your meal can begin promptly.If you are more than 30 minutes late for your reservation without contacting us, your booking will be automatically canceled.

  Please note that all meals at our restaurant start simultaneously at 6:30 PM.

• Dress Code:

  Dress code is smart casual (Please refrain from wearing T-shirts, shorts, and sandals when you visit.)

• Children:

  Guests aged 12 and above, and able to enjoy the course meal.

• Others:

  We kindly ask for your consideration regarding excessive perfume or fabric softener fragrances.