Overview
Restaurant Overview and Charm: Discover SCALAE, Where Kyoto's Flavors Shine
SCALAE is an Italian restaurant located on the second floor of The Thousand Kyoto Hotel, just a five-minute walk from Kyoto Station. Founded in 2019, it is led by Chef Kenta Shibahara, a native of Kyoto. After honing his craft at a prestigious restaurant in Naples, he brought his expertise to the culinary scene at iCas storia in Tokyo before taking charge at SCALAE. The ambiance is bright and elegant, with a stylish design and a calm atmosphere that create a delightful dining experience.
Culinary Appeal and Recommended Menu: A Glimpse into SCALAE's Exquisite Offerings
The culinary concept at SCALAE prominently features the "Plant Forward Kitchen," which focuses on highlighting vegetables while incorporating limited amounts of animal products to enhance flavors. This innovative approach not only showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms but also embodies an environmental consciousness that resonates with many diners. Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu with dishes such as:
- Cress and cucumber salad featuring Parmigiano Reggiano from Toyama
- Cauliflower mousse garnished with pickled cauliflower for a unique twist
- Stuffed zucchini flowers with house-made smoked mozzarella
- Risotto made with Carnaroli rice and shiitake mushrooms, enriched with truffle and red wine
Each plate reflects a commitment to utilizing the full potential of regional produce, ensuring a menu that evolves yet remains steadfast with the seasons.
Cuisine Genres: Italian Culinary Techniques with a Local Touch
SCALAE offers a distinctive take on Italian cuisine by integrating seasonal and local ingredients into its dishes, resulting in a vibrant culinary experience that resonates with travelers and food enthusiasts alike. The use of high-quality, carefully selected ingredients is evident throughout the menu, with a focus on freshness and flavor integrity that honors the origins of the components used. This fusion highlights the marriage of traditional Italian cooking with Kyoto's rich agricultural bounty, providing guests with delightful and memorable flavors.
Reviews
"Visiting SCALAE was an absolute delight. The summer vegetable and watermelon gazpacho was a favorite of mine. I truly enjoyed my dining experience in such a spacious and inviting atmosphere."
"My breakfast during my stay was delightful. I opted for the mobile order for my main, which offered a lovely variety from the buffet as well. The standout dish was the Alsatian stew, ‘Baeckeoffe’, which I hope to try again on my next visit."
"I returned to this wonderful restaurant after four years and was thrilled with its creativity and quality. Having access to a private room was a fantastic added bonus. I genuinely enjoyed every aspect of my meal."
"I always have a good time at THE THOUSAND KYOTO. This time, I visited the Italian restaurant SCALAE and was enchanted by the artistic presentation of each dish. The seasonal flavors are always delightful and memorable."
"Our lunch at SCALAE was an experience to remember. Every dish was fresh and beautifully crafted. The attentive service and inviting atmosphere made the occasion truly special."
Opening Hours
Monday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
How to Get There
Train / Subway
510m (0.32mi) from Ekia Nakasweets Nishi Store - about an 8-minute walk
522m (0.32mi) from Kyoto Station - about an 8-minute walk
522m (0.32mi) from Kyoto Station - about an 8-minute walk
522m (0.32mi) from Kyoto Station - about an 8-minute walk
522m (0.32mi) from Kyoto Station - about an 8-minute walk
Bus stop
141m (0.09mi) from Kyoto Station [The Thousand Kyoto] - about a 3-minute walk
204m (0.13mi) from Shiokoji Takakura / Kyoto City University of Arts - about a 4-minute walk
332m (0.21mi) from Kyoto Station - about a 5-minute walk
204m (0.13mi) from Shiokoji Takakura / Kyoto City University of Arts - about a 4-minute walk
332m (0.21mi) from Kyoto Station - about a 5-minute walk
Map
Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokōjichō, ５７０ 番
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Things to Do in the Area
Exploring the Culinary Richness of Kyoto
Kyoto, celebrated for its rich history and culture, offers a delightful experience for food lovers. This city emphasizes seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques, making it a perfect destination to explore Japanese and international cuisine.
- Kyoto Tower: Standing tall at 131 meters, this modern architectural marvel offers panoramic views of the city and is a great starting point for your Kyoto adventures.
- Fushimi Inari Taisha: Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, this iconic shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, is a must-visit for its stunning trails and spiritual ambiance.
- Kinkaku-ji: Also known as the Golden Pavilion, this Zen temple is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, reflecting in the surrounding pond, and is an exemplar of Muromachi period architecture.
The Allure of Downtown Kyoto with Elegant Dining Experiences
The downtown area of Kyoto is vibrant and bustling, featuring various dining establishments that showcase both local and international fare. Here, visitors can blend cultural exploration with exquisite meals that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- The Thousand Kyoto: This stylish hotel houses several dining options and offers visitors a taste of contemporary Italian cuisine amidst a serene setting. It is an ideal place for couples looking for a romantic dining experience.
- Nishiki Market: Known as Kyoto's kitchen, this bustling marketplace offers everything from fresh produce to traditional sweets, providing a feast for the senses and an opportunity to taste local delicacies.
- Gion District: Famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture, this area is not only beautiful but also home to many tea houses and restaurants, allowing diners to experience Kyoto’s refined culinary traditions.