Sister restaurant to Sakana Beibe, featuring signature genshiyaki charcoal-grilled specialties

Head north on Shinmachi-dori from Shiokoji-dori, take a slight turn west onto Kizuyabashi-dori, and you’ll find this exciting addition to the Kyoto Station area, opened in May 2024. It is the sister restaurant to the much-loved Sakana Beibe, which promises a fantastic evening out, no matter your company.

The owner, who once lived in Vancouver, Canada (inspiring the restaurant’s playful name, “Bankuba”—晩喰場), brings that same creative energy here. You’ll be charmed by the contrast: a welcoming entrance resembling a traditional Kyoto home opens up to reveal a vibrant, bustling open kitchen inside.

For your first order, the Genshiyaki Grilled Fatty Sardine with Salt (¥960) is a must-try. This signature “primitive grilling” style involves slow-cooking the fish over charcoal in a traditional irori hearth, resulting in perfectly crispy skin and incredibly moist, fluffy meat inside. Complement your meal with other delights like the Assorted Sashimi platter or the Seared Bonito with Salt, featuring fresh fish sourced directly from the market—perfect companions for your drinks. And don’t miss the seasonal kamameshi (pot rice) – prepared with daily market selections, it’s the recommended way to round off your dining experience.