Kyoto, Japan Nov. 23 Sat 10:02AM
Food as Art
Kaiseki-ryori is Japan's answer to haute-cuisine. More than a food, kaiseki is an art form and balances taste, color, and texture. Garnishes and plating are considered in order to enhance the food as much as possible to be visually appealing. Kaiseki ususes locally sourced ingredients in order to consider what is seasonal and fresh.
Kyoto kaiseki, or Kyo-kaiseki, uses the simple flavors of traditional Kyoto cooking. Instead of depending on heavy seasoning for flavors it depends on the seasonality and the freshness of the food.
Kaiseki can consist of an appetizer, sashimi, a simmered dish, a grilled dish, a steamed dish, and a rice dish. Additional courses are often added and are usually up to the chef.
In Kyoto, kaiseki can be enjoyed if you're staying in a ryokan, or in many restaurants in traditional areas of Kyoto like Pontocho and Higashiyama.
