#3686

Kyoto - City of...Falafel?

Food City Kyoto Restaurant Cuisine Lunch vegetarian Vegan

Falafel Garden

Falafel Garden Lunch Set Menu

Falafel Garden has been a staple hangout for Kyoto locals since 2004. I was first taken there (by a Kyoto local) two years ago, only to be - like everyone else who's been there - completely astounded by one of the best falafels I have ever eaten.

The food at Falafel Garden is made with "organically grown vegetables whenever possible, and contains no meat, fish, egg or dairy products, so customers with allergies or other dietary concerns may enjoy this traditional, healthy food with ease." - in other words, a vegan's paradise that's good enough for even the most carnivorous of us.

For those of you unfamiliar with one of the best things this planet has to offer, falafels are made from chickpeas (garbanzos) mashed with parsley and spices, and then shaped into balls and deep-fried. The balls are placed inside pita bread with lettuce and sliced vegetables, and topped with tahini sesame sauce and tomato-chili sauce.

The Falafel Garden's menu, which ranges in price from ¥300 to ¥2000, has a variety of nibbles and snacks to full on meals. In addition to their falafel balls (¥390) and pita sandwiches (¥680-¥1380), you can also order baba ganoush, hummus, couscous, quiches, and even schnitzels! Desserts include Baklava (of course), cheesecake, and homemade ice cream.

So if you find yourself in Kyoto and need a break from traditional Japanese, try Falafel Garden's traditional Israeli delights. It's always a must stop when I visit the city. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.