The Art of the Grill Reimagined at EMBA KYOTO GRILL

Japanese Reveries at the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Located in the historic Higashiyama district, the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is nestled in one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods. With its cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old temples and shrines, Higashiyama provides an exceptional setting where Japanese history and culture unfold with the changing seasons. The hotel itself is a haven of tranquility, surrounded by gardens and its eight-hundred-year-old pond, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of this ancient capital. A short walk away, you'll find downtown Kyoto with its modern attractions, while the traditional Gion district nearby invites you to step back in time, where geishas and maikos can be spotted gliding through picturesque alleyways. This privileged location allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the essence of Kyoto, between serenity and cultural vibrancy.

An Elegant Escape: The Open-Air Steakhouse Reimagined

Inside, the steakhouse offers an exceptional experience with sweeping views of the historic pond garden. This elegant atmosphere extends outdoors, where the restaurant's beauty finds its fullest expression on a terrace bordered by a pond, entirely redesigned in 2025 to deliver one of the most immersive open-air dining experiences. With spectacular views of the garden, this terrace welcomes guests in a refined and serene ambiance. The contemporary Kettal furniture, designed in Spain, harmonizes perfectly with the natural surroundings, creating an ideal setting for moments of relaxation or evening celebrations.

The Art of Fire and Exceptional Grilling

EMBA KYOTO GRILL embodies a symphony of grilled flavors, where each dish reflects a harmonious marriage of culinary tradition and innovation. This luxury steakhouse elevates the art of live-fire cooking to new heights with the introduction of the Josper grill, paired with cherry wood charcoal to deliver an unparalleled depth of flavor. Whether you choose a premium dry-aged beef or the signature Wagyu burger, every bite promises an exceptional sensory experience. The establishment distinguishes itself through its ability to elevate the umami of the finest ingredients, from succulent meats and freshly caught seafood to seasonal vegetables. Embracing both modern techniques and the essence of Japanese cuisine, EMBA KYOTO GRILL stands as a must-visit destination for grilling enthusiasts, offering tasting menus and a diverse à la carte selection to satisfy every palate. Guests can also indulge in a sumptuous Sunday brunch or a refined afternoon tea, all within an enchanting setting.

Chef Marco Fregnan

Raised in a family that owned an Italian restaurant, Marco Fregnan developed an early sensitivity for seasonal ingredients and the culinary arts. His career began in Michelin-starred kitchens, and he spent nearly a decade perfecting his craft at leading establishments in Singapore. In 2024, he relocated to Kyoto, where he was appointed Chef de Cuisine of EMBA KYOTO GRILL in February 2026. Marco brings a refined approach that elevates local ingredients through charcoal cooking and slow-cooking techniques.

Our Lunch: A Seasonal Melody

Our lunch began with a beautiful selection of starters. The bluefin tuna tartare is an elegant and refined creation that captivates with its presentation and flavors. The hand-cut chutoro forms a delicate line across the plate, accompanied by touches of vibrant citrus and creamy avocado. The yuzu pepper adds a subtle spiced citrus note, while the burnt wasabi butter brings a slightly piquant depth of flavor. The dish is garnished with fresh micro greens that add a crunchy, visual dimension to this artistic composition — perfect for those who appreciate both delicate and bold flavors.

Continuing our culinary exploration, the cocktail shrimp dish stands out for its elegant presentation and well-balanced flavors. The poached Kuruma-Ebi are carefully arranged around crisp vegetables such as lettuce leaves and radish slices. An original EMBA sauce accompanies this starter, adding a savory touch. This medley of textures and flavors promises a tasting experience that is both fresh and exquisite, enhanced by the dish's refined appearance.

The transition to the comforting pleasures of French cuisine brings us to the French Onion Soup, presented here as a heartwarming delight. Served in an elegant bowl, it evokes the art of French cooking with its homemade sourdough bread croutons, offering a crispy texture that contrasts perfectly with the sweet caramelized onions. The whole is gratinéed with Comté cheese, which melts sumptuously on top, creating a golden, fragrant crust. The blend of rich flavors and savory cheese makes this soup a truly remarkable culinary experience.

Continuing with a touch of sophistication, this dish features a sumptuous 150g Japanese beef fillet, beautifully grilled to reveal perfect crosshatch marks on its juicy surface. A black pepper sauce, served in a small golden saucepan, adds a spiced depth to the dish. As accompaniments, grilled farm vegetables offer a colorful freshness, while a silky, creamy smoked potato purée completes this refined culinary experience.

For a sweet conclusion, the "Café Whisky" is a refined dessert that subtly combines the rich, complex flavors of dark chocolate, caramel, coffee, and whisky. This visual delight rests on an elegant contemporary plate, where a dark chocolate and caramel mousse blends seamlessly with a velvety coffee mousse. The whole is enhanced by a caramel and whisky crunch that adds a crisp texture and aromatic depth. With its impeccable presentation, this dessert promises a tasting experience that is both intense and balanced — ideal for concluding a meal with a touch of sophistication.

The strawberry tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, presented with refinement. In this version, fresh strawberries replace the traditional cocoa and coffee, bringing a fruity, summery touch. The dessert is elegantly assembled with creamy layers of mascarpone, accentuated by pieces of juicy strawberries and a vibrant strawberry sauce. A crisp biscuit adds textural contrast, while dried strawberry shards decorate the top, offering an exquisite visual and gustatory experience. It is a dessert that is both light and indulgent, perfect for ending a meal on a refreshing note.

Our Verdict

EMBA KYOTO GRILL stands apart through its innovative approach to grilling, where each dish is an ode to the harmony between tradition and modernity. Under the direction of Chef Marco Fregnan, the restaurant delivers an exceptional culinary experience, where the quality of local ingredients is elevated by cutting-edge cooking techniques. The elegant terrace atmosphere, with its sweeping views of the historic garden, creates an idyllic setting for savoring gastronomic creations ranging from dry-aged beef to fresh seafood. Every meal becomes a celebration of the senses, making this steakhouse an essential destination for lovers of refined cuisine in Kyoto.