A KYOTO RESTAURANT IS ELEVATING A SPECIAL STYLE OF SUSHI INTO EXQUISITE ART.
Temari (ball-shaped) sushi is believed to have originated in Kyoto in the last 200 years. It’s named after Japan’s traditional embroidered ball toy, similar to a footbag or hacky sack. Today, Temari sushi is a common Japanese household dish, but these elegant examples are unique to Japan, even Kyoto.
Mametora
The presentation of glistening sushi resembles a tray of jewelry. Mametora is in Gion, an area renowned for geiko (geisha in the Kyoto dialect) and maiko (apprentice geiko). Known as “maiko sushi,” the perfectly seasoned morsels are designed to be eaten in one bite by these performers—and preserve their delicate makeup. Soy sauce is not required.
Enjoy these finely-crafted gems in a lunch set or elaborate kaiseki (multi-course) dinner as elusive geiko flit along stone-paved streets outside. Private rooms overlook a tranquil garden.
Mametora
570-235, Gion-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Closest station: Gion-Shijo
Tel: 075-532-3955