Hello. Tempura & Sake Ginkiten. I am in charge of PR at Kyoto Porta branch.

It’s late August, when the sun’s rays grow gentler and the first hints of fall begin to appear. On evenings when you’d like to reflect on your summer memories and enjoy a moment of peace, why not treat yourself to a special experience with our recommended drink and food pairings?

A blissful combination that brings out the unique character of the ingredients

At our restaurant, we use a special cooking appliance called a “water fryer” to bring out the natural flavors of our ingredients to the fullest. This technique creates a surprisingly light batter that seals in the ingredients’ umami without letting any of it escape. For example, our “Namero Shiso” seafood tempura features the refreshing aroma of shiso that tickles your nose, followed by the rich umami of the fish spreading across your palate. The crisp “Midori Gin Soda” is the perfect pairing for this dish. The botanical aroma of the gin further enhances the flavor of the freshly fried tempura and gently refreshes your palate. Similarly, when pairing vegetable tempura—such as “onion” or “carrot”—with the “Settsu Otokoyama Junmai” sake, the rice’s rich umami gently envelops the vegetables’ natural sweetness, creating a harmony that satisfies the soul. Taking the time to engage with each ingredient and discover your own perfect pairing is truly a luxury reserved for adults.

A flexible way to enjoy an evening drink at your preferred strength

Everyone has their own way of enjoying alcohol. At our shop, we value a style that allows customers to freely adjust the strength of their drinks to suit their mood or how they’re feeling that day. In particular, the “High-Strength Plain Dekachū 1L” is perfect for groups or for those who want to take their time sipping their drink. By combining options such as lemon, lime, or Umaya’s umeboshi (pickled plums), you can create your very own original drink. For example, on a night when you’re feeling a little tired, adding umeboshi to bring out the tartness transforms the drink into a refreshing flavor that whets your appetite. We also offer an extensive lineup of shochu sodas, and trying unique varieties like the “《Barley》 Chill Highball (CHILL GREEN + Soda)” is one of the pleasures of visiting us. With a refreshing, carbonated drink in one hand and a bite of freshly fried “Young Chicken Thigh Karaage” or “Grilled Squid Tentacles” in the other, you can forget the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy a truly relaxing moment.

A moment of relaxation to rejuvenate body and mind at a hidden gem directly connected to the station

Its convenient location, directly connected to Kyoto Station, offers the peace of mind of being able to pop in on a whim while traveling or on your way home from work. The interior features a bright, clean atmosphere with a natural wood palette, and the counter seating is designed with those who wish to enjoy a quiet moment alone in mind. The time spent here, enveloped by the sounds and aromas of the chef frying tempura right before your eyes—without worrying about those around you—is like a sacred ritual that stimulates the senses and restores both body and mind. To finish the meal, order the “Kyoto-style Udon with Traditional Kyoto Vegetables: Kujo Green Onions and Chopped Fried Tofu (Half Portion).” The gentle flavor of the dashi broth will permeate your body, gently rounding out the day. Furthermore, pairing the meal with a cold dessert such as “Hokkaido Catalana” completes this satisfying dining experience. Spending a special moment pampering yourself in this space—just a step away from the hustle and bustle of the station—is sure to be a valuable time for recharging your energy for tomorrow. We look forward to welcoming you anytime as a place that adds a touch of color to your daily life.