Vegan
Pizza
Japanese
Organic
Western
Beer/Wine
Fusion
Upscale vegan restaurant located minutes from Katabiranotsuji station on the Arashiyama line, or 10 minutes from Uzumasa station on Sanin line. Single lunch is open Wed-Sat. Course meals Wed-Sun only. Closed for lunch when offering cooking course. Open with a reservation system for course meals during Autumn leaves. Must reserve at least 3 days ahead - email to: little-heaven@heaven.zaq.jp. Make reservations via the website. Open Tue-Sun 12:00pm-10:00pm.
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- Reservations required
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Last update on 23 Nov 2023 by TakuIshii
Update business info -
Added by TakuIshii on 24 Oct 2014
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23 Reviews
First Review by happycyclist
CameronFinley
Points +65
Amazing food and service. - Edit
Little Heaven is conveniently located just a short walk from Katabiranotsuji station, making it easily accessible. Upon entering, you're greeted by a modern and impeccably clean dining space. While we were the only diners during our visit, the ambiance felt peaceful and inviting. The addition of some soft background music could enhance the atmosphere further, but overall, it was a tranquil setting.
Read moreThe service at Little Heaven was exceptional. Our server, who also happens to be one of the owners, went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was memorable. His attentiveness and genuine care for our enjoyment added a charming touch to the evening.
We started with the vegan sushi platter, a pre-order necessity but well worth it. The creativity and flavors of the sushi were unparalleled, with each bite showcasing clean and balanced tastes. The use of unexpected ingredients like tomato flesh as a seafood substitute was a delightful surprise. For our entrees, I indulged in the yakiniku set plate, while my partner opted for the simple yet satisfying dinner salad with sesame-miso dressing. Every dish was bursting with flavor, hitting all the right notes and leaving us thoroughly impressed.
The presentation of the food was as exquisite as its taste. Each dish was artfully arranged, showcasing a vibrant array of colors and textures that truly delighted the senses.
Despite no longer offering multi-course tasting menus, Little Heaven still boasts a diverse selection of appetizers and entrees to cater to various dietary preferences. Considering the quality and portion sizes, the pricing at Little Heaven was exceptionally reasonable. Our entire meal, including two sushi plates, entrees, drinks, and dessert, came to just under $80—an incredible value for the exceptional dining experience we enjoyed.
In addition to the delectable food, we also sampled their Vegan certified organic beers, which paired perfectly with our meal. When we were leaving, our server and the chef both saw us out and bowed as we walked back towards the station. Another nice touch of hospitality and service that is quintessentially Japanese.
Our experience at Little Heaven was nothing short of outstanding. From the innovative vegan sushi to the impeccable service, every aspect of our dining experience exceeded expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend Little Heaven to anyone seeking a memorable culinary experience in Kyoto.
Updated from previous review on 2024-06-10
Pros: Creative, incredibly flavorful food, High end experience at mid-tier price point. , Clean, tranquil dining space
Cons: Nit. Background music would enhance the ambience.
Guest
Yolanda
Points +1920
Beautiful food - Edit
Loved the food at Little Heaven but I think the restaurant has significantly changed their menu recently as there was no set 6 course tasting menu that everyone has commented on. We ordered individual dishes off the menu.
Read moreWe had the dumplings, set plate, sauteed soy meat and the cake of the day. The food was wonderful – so tasty. Best set plate so far on our trip to Japan. All the food was beautifully presented.
There was a second menu that offered soba noodles and sushi which looked amazing too. We would have ordered from it but it said 12-3pm so we thought it was for lunches only. However we later realised we could have ordered from it as the diners at the next table got those dishes.
We made a reservation but the restaurant was mostly empty at 6pm on a Saturday.
We shared our 4 dishes and our bill came to 3500 yen so it was much less expensive than what we thought it would be too. We thought it was excellent food and very reasonably priced too.
Pros: Excellent food, Very reasonable price, Lovely staff
Guest
ChrisNewlyn
Points +28
A Vegan Dining Experience Fit for the Gods - Edit
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Little-Heaven is a vegan gem that offers a truly unforgettable dining experience. They served a six-course menu that showcases the best of plant-based cuisine. My partner and I had the pleasure of dining here during our recent trip to Kyoto, and we were blown away by the flavors and atmosphere.
Read moreFrom the moment we walked in, we were transported to a magical world where every dish was a work of art. The owners took great care of us, ensuring that we had a memorable and enjoyable experience. The six-course menu was expertly crafted, with each dish bursting with flavor and creativity. I can honestly say that it was the best vegan and plant-based food I've ever had.
If you're in Kyoto, I highly recommend making a reservation at Little-Heaven. Even if you only have one night in the city, this is the place to go. The owners have limited slots available, so make sure to book in advance to secure your spot. I know that whenever I return to Kyoto, I'll definitely be coming back to this gem of a restaurant.
Pros: Private experience, Delicious food, Warm environment
Guest
NathalieScarlette
Points +19
Best vegan course I’ve ever had - Edit
What an amazing experience, this chef is deserving of an award for their passion and skill. Everything was made with so much flavour and attention to detail. It was almost emotional to see how much love was poured into every dish.
Read moreAn absolute honour. Thank you so much
Pros: Everything ! Delicious !!!, Please remember to reserve !!
Guest
Ruthy
Points +179
Absolutely incredible!!! - Edit
It is quite hard to get a reservation too far in advance here, so email a few days before you want to come. It is so worth it! Every single course was so inventive and delicious, we were blown away by the food. Service was fantastic and friendly. You HAVE to go here for vegan food in Kyoto. It's also amazing value, we had the set menu which was 6 courses for 2 people plus 2 beers for around 19000 yen.
Read moreUpdated from previous review on 2023-10-25
Guest
lanasmom1993
Points +297
One of our best meals in Japan - Edit
This place is amazing. It is the finest of dining, this would certainly be $200-300 in the US. Every bite was impeccable. Such a great experience I can’t recommend it enough. I’ve had trouble finding vegan food in Japan and it’s so nice to have a set course meal and not have to think about it at all and just know that everything is going to be vegan and delicious. My non-vegan boyfriend was with me and we were both so impressed. Support this all vegan restaurant!!
Read moreGuest
RichNRuth
Points +84
Accurately named...magificent all vegan fine dining - Edit
Nothing bad to say... menu was incredible. Portions are intentionally small so that you are satisfied after 6 courses. Would be £200 or more in London for the same experience. Possibly the best vegan experience in Kyoto. Email 3 days ahead (English is ok) and keep 2 hours aside...this is not a place to rush.
Read morePros: Vegan fine dining, Private room and great service , Incredible menu
Guest
snewy
Points +100
Five star are not enough. - Edit
Amazing light and fluffy rice bread. So many courses all featuring Kyoto’s best plant based option. Well named.
Read morePros: Fine dinning at the best. , Attention to the finest detail. , Staff went out of there way for us.
Cons: None to name
Guest
MamieLoup
Points +403
Just WOW - Edit
I don't want to be long, there is so much to say.
Read moreSo to be short everything, every single little piece were just incredibly tasty and perfect.
If you have the chance to come to Kyoto, don't hesitate and book now !
It is not so expensive for what you get. I guess it was the highest quality I ever had for a vegan restaurant. It is worth it for sure.
Pros: Taste, quality., Staff, atmosphere, Price
Guest
_travel__
Points +530
Outstanding! - Edit
This is the best fine dining restaurant we have ever been to! I don't know where to begin, as the food tasted like heaven. The homemade smoked tofu, different purees and gels, fresh vegetables and interesting tofu creations, everything done to perfection. You can tell that a lot of care goes into every detail of a dish. They use the best ingredients of the season and compliment the natural flavor of them perfectly. There's a lot on the plate but nothing is overshadowed. Everything shines in it's own way. Especially the salad was incredible, each vegetable and every puree was on point. The onion mousse had a texture, that I didn't expect to be possible in a vegan restaurant. Most flavors can't really be described, as they are very complex.
Read moreFrom our experience this could be way more expensive and still worth it.
Pros: The best food we ever had, cheap for what you get
Guest
moroccorockfox
Points +70
Delicious - Edit
This was an amazing culinary experience. Every single item was absolutely delicious! Highly recommended dinner lunch course!
Read morePros: Every dish was unique , Beautiful presentation, Amazing flavor
Cons: A little out of the way of major tourist areas, A little expensive
Guest
TraveLaika
Points +495
Truly unique experience of vegan food castronomy - Edit
Thank you so much for this place, as I am a chef I was so excited and all my thoughts were fulfilled.
Read moreThe food was sooooo gooodd😄Really yummy and like made into perfection with lots of new refreshing tastes and new ideas implemented together, truly inspiring. What a 5 course meal that is not that cheap 5000, but its worth every yen of it. It blows your mind if you are vegan!
Few things to get even better, like 100p out of 100p - if there is alcohol, the waiter should pour more into the glass. Also more interaction while showing what is what exactly and also selling out more seats, as it is so inspiring what you do😄
Thank you!!!!
Guest
RebeccaDee
Points +43
DO NOT MISS THIS - Edit
Literally the best meal I’ve had in Japan. Every dish was exquisite and like nothing else I’ve ever had. So amazed by the quality of the staff and that of the chef. Do not miss this place in Kyoto. It is off the beaten path but worth it in every way. You will not regret it. Call three days in advance to book and make sure you have an empty stomach when you go. Just wow.
Read morePros: the food, the experience, the staff
Cons: none!
Guest
Tamarahco
Points +19
A must *if*... - Edit
IF you appreciate traditional and experimental cuisine, absolute freshness, impeccable service and an obvious commitment to the ethics of a vegan diet, Little Heaven is the place for you. Be sure to try their vegetable sushi -- the 'squid'(-shiso) and 'tuna' are especially memorable. And know that the chef-duo is happy to personalize their desserts in honor of a special occasion
Read moreGuest
Nachopath
Points +58
Hands down Kyoto's best. - Edit
You will pay good money, but every bite is pure joy. Book this for birthdays and dates (we do).
Read moreThey do smoked tofu that is pretty much where the title of this restaurant comes from. Not to mention their take on a cheeseburger is fecking celestial.
Guest
Anhte
Points +37
Excellent! High Quality, Creative, A must! - Edit
Just spent a wonderful evening at Little Heaven having their set dinner menu...and what a fantastic, creative and flavourful experience it was.
Read moreI am a vegan chef(mostly raw) and I can say this was one of the best meals I have ever had, anywhere! The chef here is very talented and puts these skills to great use in presenting you with an intricate and balanced menu that flows eloquently from start to finish.
It was worth every penny and was the first meal in Japan where I actually felt very full afterwards too! The hours that go into preparing this type of cuisine go far beyond the price here! Service was impeccable also.
Make the trip here, it is so worth it!
Thank you Little Heaven for pushing the boundaries of vegan cuisine in Japan.
Updated from previous review on 2017-05-28
Pros: Creative, flavourful, exciting Japanese vegan food, Excellent service
Guest
bvanwassenhove
Points +138
Great meal - Edit
Had an excellent multi-course vegan meal here (6500 yen). Everything was beautifully presented and the vegan sushi was really creative. The service was graceful and friendly. Highly recommended.
Read morePros: Creative high-quality food, Beautiful presentation, Friendly service
Cons: Can't think of any
Guest
veggie_traveller
Points +173
The most incredible meal ever! - Edit
I cannot speak highly enough of this amazing restaurant in Kyoto. It was probably the nicest meal I think I've ever eaten anywhere in the world. At 6000yen I had the sushi dinner course. It is expensive but is worth every yen. Every course was perfection in presentation and taste and the staff were lovely. Don't miss any chance to dine here!
Read morePros: Amazing food, Incredible staff
Cons: None
Guest
KelvinWuGW
Points +1442
Must visit on the way to arashimaya - Edit
This is the highlight of our whole trip. The food are so creative and tasty. We really look forward to our next kyoto trip just to visit this restaurant again. No doubt it's pricey, but definitely worth the experience. It's top on the list at least for us.
Read morePros: Creative and tasty food , Near to arashiyama and train stn
Cons: Pricey
Guest
SusanRoberts
Points +992
The most amazing food I've ever eaten... - Edit
Every single item is so well prepared and the taste is perfect! Presentation is out of this world--every dish is a work of art. I've now been for dinner and lunch--both are equally delicious, but dinner includes more variety. Though the cost might be a bit higher than a few other venues, it is definitely worth every yen. More, really....it is very hard to imagine anyone leaving disappointed, after such an experience. The chef explains the ingredients and vegetables, many of which are organic and sourced locally. Cannot recommend enough.
Read moreGuest
surrealpistachio
Points +34
Amazing food and presentation - Edit
We had a private room for ourselves and the staff was waiting for us when we arrived. They were very professional and nice. Unfortunately, we had to go before we were served all our food, but they were so kind and accommodating that they let us take home the last part of our dinner, beautifully presented in bentos.
Read moreThe food was amazing and diverse, more so than shojin ryori food. It was full of flavor, texture and very innovating. We especially liked the vegan sushis that we couldn't find anywhere else in Japan. The deserts were also original and we couldn't decide which we liked best as they we all delicious. The homemade Japanese style breads were very nice. And for everything we had, the price was surprisingly modest.
Thank you again for this wonderful experience on our honeymoon and we hope to return one day !
Pros: originality, good value, friendly staff
Guest
JesseD
Points +832
My Best Meal in Japan - Edit
As my review says, this was my best meal in Japan, having lived there for three years and visited many times over the last ten years.
Read moreWhile it doesn't offer the full temple dining experience of Shojin-Ryori, in a way Little Heaven offers the best of all worlds of Shojin, Western food, Japanese food and the popular Japanese fusion style cooking. Like shojin, the food is beautifully prepared, with each of many dishes being a work of art in itself that you don't want to destroy by eating. And while Shojin can be as cheap as a few thousand yen for a simple temple meal, Little Heaven offers a meal comparable to many temples for a fraction of the price (my meal cost about 7,000 Yen).
The owner (who used to run one of my favourite restaurants in Tokyo) and the chef are friendly and welcoming, and clearly passionate about their food; they brought out raw ingredients to explain the ingredients, including the many local varieties of vegetables which made up my feast. At the table before I arrived was a full-page English-language description of my meal, course by course.
Meals need to be booked at least three days in advance, and I was so glad that I (just) managed to sneak in my booking. It's well worth it, even if it will be your most expensive meal in Kyoto. It will also be your best.
Pros: incredible meal, friendly staff passionate about food, very reasonable prices for this food
Cons: must book three days in advance
Guest
happycyclist
Points +443
Went to heaven and back! - Edit
We are picky eaters and usually find vegan restaurant cuisine boring. Little Heaven was outstanding! Don't be fooled by the small portions. Nine beautiful and delicious courses later, we were stuffed and waddling home! All ingredients were organic and made from scratch, including the bread, soy puddings, pickles, vegan sushi, and plethora of French-style sauces. There were so many tastes to savor in each bite, with loads of protein (for a change), and so much color. Every bite was an explosion of taste. Well worth the 5 star price. Go for the full course option with vegan sushi. An unsuspecting eater would never know it was all vegan. Definitely going back!
Read moreUpdated from previous review on Monday December 22, 2014
Pros: taste, protein, presentation
Guest
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