måne

The story

måne – Innovative Italian Cuisine in Kyoto | Michelin Recommended

In a quiet residential corner of Kyoto’s Nakagyo ward, a white-stone building with clean wooden accents houses måne, an Italian restaurant that earned a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026. Chef Shota Kawamura, born in Kyoto in 1977, discovered his passion for cooking while working part-time at a restaurant as a student. After ten years at Ristorante Yonemura, a year in Tuscany, and five years at Il Ghiottone, he opened måne in April 2016.

A Philosophy of Local Ingredients

Kawamura personally selects produce at the central market and sources from trusted local farms. “The area around Kyōtanabe is blessed with vegetables,” he notes, which is why he chose this location. His cooking transforms these seasonal ingredients into refined Italian dishes. The menu is course-only, for both lunch and dinner.

Signature Dishes from the Source

The kitchen highlights local and seasonal pairings. A carpaccio of Kyoto’s Jōyō figs with fresh bonito balances sweet and savory. A confit of tender abalone and locally grown taro in oil offers deep, rich flavor. And a roast of Challans duck from France – crisp skin, juicy meat – shows the chef’s precision. These dishes change with the seasons and availability.

A Calm, Attentive Atmosphere

The interior is white and wood-toned, with counter seating that allows Kawamura to attend to every guest. Tables are also available. The service is quiet, focused. Whether for a lunch course or dinner, måne offers a space for unhurried, memorable meals – the kind of experience that earned it its Michelin star rating.