Sushi Dokoro Ima

A short distance from the bustle of central Kyoto, Sushi Dokoro Ima in Katsura Asahicho offers an unhurried dining pace shaped by the chef's attentive craftsmanship. The intimate, calm interior holds only a limited number of counter seats, giving guests an up-close view as each dish is assembled.

At the core of the menu are multi-course sets designed to showcase seasonal seafood at a steady rhythm. Options range from sushi-centric sets running from sakizuke appetizer through to soup, to courses that weave in appetizers—such as three kinds of sashimi, grilled dishes, and small plates. Thoughtful preparation shines across the nigiri, from seared nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) and golden eye snapper that highlight crisp, fragrant skin, to kombu-cured guji (tilefish) rich in delicate umami.

Beyond the nigiri, the à la carte selection features varied drinking fare such as salt-grilled cutlassfish, salt-grilled golden eye snapper, deep-fried guji, and conger eel tempura. The drinks list ranges from sake—including Kyoto's own Ine Mankai red rice sake—to assorted highballs and wines, making it easy to tailor pours to the food. Service runs from 17:00 in the evening into the night; booking a seat in advance is recommended for an unhurried meal.