01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Stepping into Ponpokotei in Shimotsubayashi, Nishikyo Ward, guests are greeted by charming tanuki figurines arranged around the counter. Inside the gently nostalgic dining room, an essential starting point is betayaki, a layered savoury pancake rooted in Kyoto's working-class neighbourhoods. Prepared by layering ingredients across a thin batter on the griddle, it is satisfying without feeling overly heavy, allowing the straightforward flavours of the fillings and savory sauce to shine. Tasting it alongside a classic, fluffy okonomiyaki is an enjoyable comparison that a dedicated teppan parlour makes possible.
The noodle and rice selections are just as substantial. The yakisoba lineup features a wide range of seasonings, including salt and curry variations, alongside omusoba wrapped around fillings of pork, squid, and beef sinew. Sobameshi, made by tossing chopped noodles and rice together over the hot iron, comes in both full and half portions, offering flexibility when balancing several dishes across a meal.
Smaller dishes to accompany the mains are just as plentiful. Sizzling plates such as octopus sautéed with fragrant garlic and soy sauce, classic pork kimchi, and butter-seared scallops make natural companions for a glass of beer. Deep-fried choices include the shop's namesake ponkara fried chicken and saki-ika shredded dried squid tempura, making it easy for groups to share an assortment across the table.
Operating through both lunch and dinner, Ponpokotei accommodates solo diners stopping by the counter as comfortably as families gathering around a griddle. Takeaway orders are also accepted. Payment inside the restaurant is cash only, so having cash ready before heading in is advised.
