The delightful Japanese tea emporium Iyemon Salon opened its doors last June and has quickly become a fashionable spot for lunch and dinner despite the competition from nearby Starbucks and Neutron Cafe. Breakfast is a choice between onigiri or a tasty egg sandwich for ￥400. The lunchtime and dinner menu ranges between ￥800 and ￥2000, and if you get a “plate” set you can be sure of a good feed for your money with plenty of rice, soup and side-dishes. However, if you are a vegetarian you may have to settle for tea and cake as the menu is heavily meat-orientated. I am told though, that the desserts are “divine” (I had a big fish plate there and couldn’t manage one I’m afraid). Naturally, all meals are best accompanied by one of Iyemon Cafe’s fine Japanese teas. For me a main attraction is the Chiso Gallery on the second floor which exhibits beautiful traditional Japanese art, crafts and antiques from the Chiso collection. Be sure to take a look after you have finished your tea.

Below are some pictures. For a closer look go to flickr.

To find Iyemon Cafe go west on Sanjo from Karasuma and you will find it on your left. Here is a map.

Telephone: 075-222-1500

Opening Hours: 8:00 – 24:00　OPEN EVERYDAY

Last Orders: FOOD / 23:00　DRINK / 23:30