This place is difficult from the moment you try to visit the restaurant - it's not just by referral, but by serious referral. The chef's dedication is on a whole other level here. Even the entrance door is like the Saito-san method - it won't budge no matter how hard you push or pull. For example, even if it's Prime Minister Abe and President Obama together, they would be turned away if they don't have a referral. It's that serious. Even if someone like Kyoko Fukada in a maid outfit jumps in saying "I'm hungry," I might be okay with it, but here, they would be plucked out. That's how serious it is. And to top it off, you can't even call the restaurant or make a reservation - you just have to show up and hope for the best. If it's full, you might be out of luck, as the clientele here loves wine, so chances are it'll be packed. But despite all that, I love this place. Even if I get turned away due to it being full, I'll keep coming back. It's not because I want to tackle the challenge, but because I truly love this restaurant and the chef's creations. The dishes served here are like "soul" food - they capture your heart and senses deeply. I'm getting the urge to visit again just writing about it. Maybe I'll head back to Kyoto tomorrow and pay a visit here. Happiness! Plus, it's not easy to become a regular customer here - there are very few new customers, so even if you write a negative review, it'll be clear you're lying. If you're going to write a review after visiting, you need to be serious and committed, because it'll be obvious who wrote it and who referred you. Yeehaw!

This is a truly hidden gem in Kyoto, known only to those in the know. At first glance, the exterior of the restaurant looks like a stylish bar, with only five counter seats available. The restaurant does not accept walk-ins, reservations, has no name, and no phone number. However, the dishes that come out of this tiny counter are all exquisite. For example, the appetizer... a unique sausage stuffed with meat that makes you wonder why this is in Japan. A simple salad with just vinegar and salt... enhancing the natural deliciousness of the vegetables. Grilled eggplant panna cotta... the aroma of the grilled eggplant fills your mouth. Dragon egg tagliolini... a rich pasta made with an unbelievable amount of eggs. Matsusaka beef Italian-style sukiyaki... a reconstructed sukiyaki with Italian cooking methods and seasonings. The wine selection is also amazing, with bottles like CA'MARCANDA VISTAMARE and Miani SAURINT being served. And Romano Levi's grappa... surprising Alba white truffles aged for two years. Served with an adult's gateau chocolat. When you take a sip of the liquid enveloped in the overwhelming truffle aroma, you may feel like you're in a different dimension. The cutlery and dishes are also impressive, with a 100-year-old Laguiole set and Old Baccarat pieces. The cost is not a concern for those who appreciate the quality of the food and drinks. Chef Mori is mostly quiet, providing minimal explanations of the dishes, but each dish speaks volumes of his dedication and confidence. It's a continuous journey of surprise and learning. Opening the door is just the beginning of the adventure. If you're lucky enough to secure a seat, but find it full, they will say "a domani" (see you tomorrow).