One of the top places in Kyoto for shojin ryori, Japan’s centuries-old Buddhist vegetarian tradition, Michelin-starred Ajiro is located next to the main gates of the 14th-century Myoshin-ji Zen temple complex, in the northern part of the city. A multicourse meal unfolds on handmade ceramics and lacquerware in a private tatami room. Depending on the season, dishes might include pistachio or pumpkin tofu, sushi made with bamboo shoots, udon noodles draped in delicate yuba (tofu skin), or kamu nasu (Kyoto eggplant), roasted to silky perfection. Reservations essential.
