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

Mid-October, as autumn deepens and the trees lining the streets begin to change color. Do you ever find yourself hungry after work or struggling to decide where to meet up with friends? In this article, we’ll introduce our staff’s recommended menu—which we confidently present as the perfect solution for those uncertain evenings—along with tips on how to enjoy your meal most efficiently.

The Art of Texture: The Perfect Balance Between Fried Foods and Side Dishes

When putting together a meal centered around fried foods, varying the intensity of flavors is the key to enhancing satisfaction. At our restaurant, we recommend starting with our “Homemade Tartar Potato Salad.” The rich tartar sauce and the texture of the potatoes make it the perfect appetizer while you wait for your freshly fried tempura. Next, by pairing dishes from our tempura menu—such as “Shrimp Miso Stuffed Green Peppers” or “Nagaimo with Skin”—that highlight the natural textures of the ingredients, you’ll add rhythm to a meal that can otherwise feel monotonous. Furthermore, adding “Pickled Cucumber” as a palate cleanser refreshes your mouth, allowing you to savor the umami of the tempura until the very end without getting bored. This combination is the first step to truly mastering our restaurant and the optimal way to achieve a balanced dining experience.

Your Own Way to Mix Shochu to Bring Out Its Unique Character

The shochu sodas we serve allow you to directly experience the unique character of each brand. For example, the sweet potato shochu “[Sweet Potato] Kurokiri Ball” features the rich aroma characteristic of Kurokirishima, which is enhanced by the carbonation, making it a perfect pairing with fried foods. Additionally, our barley shochu, “[Barley] Mugiwara Soda,” features a prominent toasty aroma reminiscent of a straw hat, offering a lighter, more refreshing taste. Furthermore, by pairing them with “Jasmine Tea High” or “Earl Grey Tea High”—made with tea leaves from Oyaizu Seicha—you can enjoy the contrast in aromas. Served in a kettle-style pitcher, these tea-based drinks come in generous portions, allowing you to enjoy glass after glass without interrupting your conversation. The process of discovering your own “golden ratio” to suit your mood and the day’s meal is what truly deepens the experience of enjoying an evening drink at our shop.

Spare time made possible by the convenience of direct access to the station

Directly connected to Kyoto Station, this location serves not merely as a transit point but as a “haven of rest”—a place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The interior features a bright, clean atmosphere with a natural wood finish, and the counter seating is designed with those who wish to enjoy a quiet moment alone in mind. Forgetting the hustle and bustle of the surrounding area and focusing on the sounds and aromas of the chef preparing your meal right before your eyes is an important ritual for rejuvenating both body and mind. To round out your meal, pair it with the “Daimyo Bowl (Aosa Miso Soup)” or a “Large Grilled Rice Ball” for a satisfying dining experience. Whether you’re taking a break from sightseeing, traveling for business, or simply wrapping up your day, treat this as your very own VIP seat—a quiet oasis of contentment right next to the station. We look forward to welcoming you anytime as a place that adds a touch of color to your daily life.