Lee

Located in Saga Kitabori-cho in Kyoto's Ukyo Ward, Lee welcomes diners for evening meals focused on Korean-style grilled meats and homestyle fare. Meats cooked over the grate are thoroughly pre-seasoned and marinated so they need no additional dipping sauce, pairing effortlessly with bowls of steamed white rice or alcoholic drinks.

A frequent first order among diners is the salted beef tongue, sliced with a satisfying thickness while remaining tender to the bite. The selection also includes well-prepped offal cuts such as tecchan (large intestine) alongside beef liver, allowing the natural savory depth of the meat to shine through the smoky charcoal heat.

The barbecue is balanced by an extensive spread of side dishes. A refreshing Korean-style salad serves as a palate cleanser alongside crisp chijimi pancakes, seasoned namul vegetables, and mixed kimchi platters that bring comforting homestyle flavors to the table. Popular choices to wrap up the meal include bibimbap and changja rolls, which go down well with cold draft beer or unpasteurized draft makgeolli.

The dining room features a welcoming, domestic atmosphere with sunken horigotatsu floor seating where guests can take their time and relax. Functional overhead exhaust ducts keep smoke under control so you can concentrate on grilling. Tables frequently fill up with neighborhood regulars and families, making it wise to reserve in advance once dinner plans are set.