Review: Kyotoya

Walking down the back streets of Withington, I was hesitant about what this restaurant would have to offer. Upon stepping into the concealed restaurant I was immediately transported from the grey Manchester evening into a vibrant and beautifully decorated restaurant. Covered in dainty lanterns, fairy lights and rich aromas I was immersed in the magic of Japan.

Service was pretty slow. We probably waited around 20 minutes to order so perhaps if you’re short on time order a takeaway. The alcohol is very reasonably priced with an array of Japanese beers, but the selection of wine was more limited. We tried to order a bottle of white wine for nine pounds but unfortunately, they had run out.

The menu is extremely extensive. For a starter, we opted for a plate of mixed sushi priced at £8. The open plan kitchen allowed us to watch the chefs in action freshly preparing the sushi, which was super impressive and entertaining.

The sushi was extremely well presented on a wooden board with pickled ginger and wasabi and a flower to garnish. The mixed plate of sushi contained California rolls, salmon nigiri, octopus sushi and an egg sushi which I would not recommend. Perhaps the mixed plate of sushi was slightly too adventurous for us; the octopus sushi tasted like a rubber glove and left a lot to be desired.

For mains, after a lot of deliberation, I opted for a chicken ramen priced at six pounds, which completely cured my cold. The chicken ramen came in a huge bowl, full to the brim with lots of green vegetables, noodles, and chicken bathing in a delicious sweet broth. I am embarrassed to say I could not conquer the ramen! My friend has the chicken katsu curry and she was in heaven. She had been to Wagamamas the night before and paid a massive £12 for a katsu curry nowhere near as fresh and authentic.

I am embarrassed to say I could not conquer the ramen! My friend had the chicken katsu curry and she was in heaven. She had been to Wagamamas the night before and paid a massive twelve pounds for a katsu curry nowhere near as fresh and authentic.

Kyotoya is the perfect spot for those on a student budget. Great value for money, delicious food and a magical atmosphere. It is definitely worth discovering and supporting such a yummy local restaurant.