During Kyoto`s hot summers the underground shopping complex 「Porta」 is the best choice for lunch. It`s conveniently connected to Kyoto station.

Kyoto is one of the hottest cities in Japan because it sits in the Kyoto Basin. Of course you`ve got to see the temples and shrines while you`re there but for lunch you`ll want to avoid the direct sun. Thankfully, there is an underground shopping mall you can escape to. 「Porta」 is conveniently connected to Kyoto station and is one of the largest underground complexes in the Kansai area. Inside there are 120 shops including women`s apparel shops, miscellaneous goods shops, drug stores, and restaurants. But this time we will recommend a few places for lunch.

Fujiya
A speciality Soba restaurant established in 1962(Showa 37). They are famous for 「soba noodles that are freshly kneaded and boiled, and freshly fried Tempura」. Their Bento 「Katsura」 is famous for its taste and value.

Kineya
A Teuchi Udon (thick hand kneaded Udon noodles) restaurant. You can enjoy the Sanuki district’s traditional Teuchi udon with beautiful lightly seasoned soup which compliments the noodles. Many tourists love to visit this shop because inside the shop you can see a demonstration of kneading the noodles.

Marumo Kitchen
Their concept is have fun eating rice! They offer more than 20 different kinds of Donburi(Japanese rice bowls). There are many creative Donburi dishes. This restaurant is popular among international tourists. They also have a good variety of deserts here.

Kushi Cafe BON BON YA
You can enjoy fresh Fusion Kushi cuisine in a casual atmosphere. Crispy fried Kushikatsu assorted vegetables and meats are so delicious. They also offer a set menu with dishes such as Rice omelet, Kaisendon(seafood rice bowl), Udon and so on.

Ginza Hageten
A popular tempura speciality restaurant. Steaming hot Tempura fried in sesame oil is so good. They only fry ingredients that are in season so it’s always pleasant to your taste buds.

There are a lot more shops here where you can enjoy Japanese gourmet dishes such as Takoyaki and Ochazuke. It’s also WiFi Free spot as well for your convenience. Consider stopping by on your next trip to Kyoto.