kyoto really is nice

went to see alastair yesterday, who's been in town to lecture at one of the uni's. his late summer visits have become an annual event and we always find time for a few beers when he gets to kansai. coming to kyoto about twice a year, alastair's pretty well versed on happening spaces and we went to a few great cafes and restaurants.

we met at the station and walked about 15 minutes north up the takase canal toefish, a quiet cafe by the kamo river and a very pleasant way to start the afternoon. afterward, we headed further north to ace cafe which has a great view north and east to the mountains. it's just south of the city hall on the canal and sits on the 10th floor.

we then headed much further north and briefly to prinz which is near the art school and has a really nice feel - typical of the 50's scandanavian inspired retro tag that kyoto is famous for. they have nice wee apartments you can stay in as a hotel.

we'd made a reservation at the oddly titled 'womb', which has amazing food and service to match. everything, including the noodles and placenta, was extremely fresh. the guy who runs it is chilled out and they often do events and gigs as well - the space is vast, minimal and in a very suburban setting which added to the relaxed feel. I ended up staying over and we hit an izakaya for a few before bed. a rummage around the antique market at toji and then it was back to osaka for a siesta. great to see alastair and great to be in kyoto. I think I could live there.

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