Bio-Tei
Vegetarian Options in Central Kyoto
Finding vegetarian options can be difficult in many places, but throw in a foreign language and a foreign alphabet, and it becomes near impossible in Japan. Lucky for those who are in Kyoto, there is Bio-Tei. This is a cozy little restaurant in the upstairs of the building on the southwest corner of Umetadacho and Higashinotoin Dori, kitty corner from the post office and just a few minutes’ walk from the Karasuma metro station and Hotel Monterey. There is a sign out front, but it is easily missed so bring a map and compass. Walk up the stairs (don’t be shy), and when you walk into the restaurant, you will be greeted by polite staff that speaks English. You will be offered one of the few tables they have and the waitress will bring over a menu that is in English. Now you will be faced with the most difficult decision of your day: what to get. The menu boasts a wide variety of dishes, including meat, poultry and fish, so there is something for everyone. It is all delicious, so you really can’t choose wrong, and since the prices are so reasonable, you can always order more.
Know Before You Go
The restaurant closes at 9pm, and this means they are closed. The last order is at 8:30 so you will have just enough time to eat your food and pay your bill before the doors are shut.
Bottom Line
There are plenty of meatless dishes to be had in Japan, but not too many restaurants have so many delicious ones under one roof.