A Kyoto-inspired cafe at Dawayura Kyoto!

Dawayura Kyoto is a hotel under the Banyan Tree Group located near Sanjo Ohara Bridge in Kyoto. The hotel features a traditional Japanese design.

The structure of the hotel includes stairs leading down from the road, giving the lounge a semi-basement feel where you can see the legs of passersby through the window.

Reservations are made through the hotel's restaurant, GRILL 54TH, which is located on the basement floor (B1F). Initially, when I visited, the first staff member I encountered couldn't assist me immediately and called another staff member to help.

Afternoon tea is served at the lounge & bar 1867 on the first floor. Later, I checked the official website and found that all restaurant reservations within the hotel are handled through GRILL 54TH.

Since the locations are not far apart, it’s not an issue. After placing my order, I waited for a while. Interestingly, the first staff member who assisted me brought the tray and asked in Korean if I was from Korea.

From that point, we had a conversation in Korean. It turned out that the staff member had previously worked at a hotel in Seoul that I frequently visited and is now on a two-month assignment here. Meeting a Korean person who recognized me in a hotel lounge in Japan felt surreal yet pleasant! They explained the menu in detail in Korean and even helped me take great signature photos. 🙏

With the autumn and winter seasons, the hotel is themed with vibrant autumn leaves. The interior design reflects Kyoto's charm, and the welcome drink, a mocktail with sesame (goma), offers a taste of Japan.

The savory menu includes dishes with ingredients like beef, yuzu, truffle, apple, karaage, orange, caviar, and hazelnut, all presented in a meticulous and delightful manner. The flavors are excellent.

There are no scones included, but there are six types of sweets: Mont Blanc, financiers, mousse, mascarpone, bonbon chocolates, and tarts. The presentation is reminiscent of Japanese wagashi, with an aesthetic that exceeds expectations.

Of course, the taste is impeccable as well! Additionally, Japan is generous with beverages, offering nomihodai (free drinks) for most menus. You can enjoy a variety of drinks for 90 minutes. The lounge allows a two-hour stay, with the last order taken 30 minutes before closing.

At the center of the hotel, there’s a bamboo grove reminiscent of Arashiyama’s bamboo forest, paired with rickshaws that evoke a traditional Japanese atmosphere, perfectly encapsulating the essence of Kyoto. Thank you.

Post by 킹센세 | Aug 11, 2025