01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
A short walk from Matsuo-taisha Station on the Hankyu Arashiyama Line, Blue Onion draws neighborhood regulars and temple wanderers looking for a hearty kissaten meal and a carefully brewed cup of coffee. Behind the counter sits an extensive collection of cups and saucers, while seating tucked further inside looks out onto a well-tended pocket garden.
Fresh-Fried Cutlets and Warm, Broth-Infused Omelets
The katsu sandwich is an enduring favorite among diners. Because the pork cutlet is breaded and fried to order, it takes a short while to arrive, but the wait yields a thick, tender cutlet tucked between crisp toasted bread, dressed in a generous coating of savoury sauce. Another signature is the tamago sandwich, crafted in the classic Kyoto kissaten fashion with a thick, rolled dashimaki omelet. Warm, fluffy, and moist, it carries a gentle, aromatic dashi broth. The wider sandwich roster spans fresh vegetable, tuna, and mixed sandwiches alongside ham toast, accommodating everything from a light morning bite to a filling lunch.
Charcoal-Roasted Brews and Sweet Rest Stops
The drinks list is built around charcoal-roasted beans. Alongside the house blend and a milder roast, single-origin options include Mocha, Kilimanjaro, and Mandheling, as well as Ecuador Great Mountain, known for its nutty notes and pronounced sweetness. Iced café au lait, cream-topped Viennese coffee, cakes displayed in the counter showcase, and ice cream provide an equally relaxing interlude on a stroll through western Kyoto.
Practical Details and Takeaway
The shop opens at 9:00 in the morning and runs until 17:00 in the evening, taking Thursdays off. Sandwiches and toasts are available to take away, making them convenient for on-the-go meals. Free customer parking is provided on-site, and payments are settled in cash only.
