ぱりそら
I visited the popular Italian restaurant Misato in Kyoto that I had been longing to visit since I started my food blog. It is listed as one of the top 100 Italian restaurants in the West in 2021. For lunch, they offer three course options including appetizers, pasta, and dessert, with prices starting at 2,300 yen. They also offer main courses and chef's choice courses. The restaurant is located near Gojo Station, about a 10-minute walk from Karasuma. The exterior has a unique appearance with a traditional Kyoto townhouse feel. Inside, there is a mix of Japanese and Western elements with comfortable table seating. I made a reservation and was seated at a table in the back where there is a small garden, adding to the charming atmosphere. For lunch, they serve from 11:30 to 14:00 on weekdays and weekends (please check the latest information from the restaurant). The lunch courses include appetizers, pasta, main courses, and dessert. They also offer a selection of wines to pair with the dishes. I chose the Corso B course which includes appetizers, pasta, main course, dessert, and coffee for 2,800 yen. The pasta dishes are served in halves, allowing you to try two different options. The same goes for the main courses, so even if dining alone, you can enjoy two different dishes. I started with a glass of PIEROPAN Soave Classico, a white wine from Veneto, Verona, which was refreshing and fruity. The service was excellent, with the chef presenting a cheese mousse dish as an amuse-bouche. The appetizer platter included caprese with mozzarella cheese, roasted sweet potatoes, grilled zucchini, marinated shrimp, and more. The cheese mousse with honey on crispy baguette was rich and flavorful. The appetizers were beautifully presented and delicious. The homemade bread served hot was a nice touch, with a baguette and a raisin-walnut bread. Next, we enjoyed two pasta dishes that were served hot and fresh. The atmosphere, service, and food at Misato were all exceptional, making it a memorable dining experience.