Dusit Thani Kyoto, recently opened in September, has unveiled its signature fine-dining restaurant, Ayatana.
Conceived exclusively for the hotel by acclaimed Thai chefs Duangporn “Bo” Songvisava and her husband Dylan Jones, the restaurant takes inspiration from the rich cultures of both Thailand and Japan. Its name origin is in Sanskrit, and refers to the six senses: sight, sound, scent, taste, touch, and mind.
Ayatana’s 2.5-hour journey begins in the restaurant’s open kitchen with a first bite that pays respect to Kyoto’s kyo-yasai (the prefecture’s famous vegetables), followed by five amuse-bouches that reference Shojin Ryori, the traditional dining style of Buddhist monks in Japan, which focuses on seasonal vegetables and wild mountain plants.
Next is a typical Thai-style family dinner, with six authentic Thai dishes with highlights of the season. Beverages, such as wine pairing and mocktails, are also available.
Diners will also experience Thai-inspired wagashi (a traditional Japanese confection) served with organic green tea specially created for Ayatana by the Dusit Tea Garden in Wazuka. For dessert, there are small bites from Kati, the property’s dessert atelier.
In addition, the soothing tones of a singing bowl are heard throughout the meal, believed to enhance digestion and promote a tranquil, rejuvenating slumber.
Ayatana is open daily for dinner journeys (excluding Tuesday and Wednesday) from 17.30 to 22.00, with last orders at 20.00. Price starts at 24,800 yen (US$170) per person. A lunch journey menu will be available beginning in November.
Advanced reservations are highly recommended.
For more information, visit Dusit Thani Kyoto.
