Gion Matoisushi

Restaurant Review: Gion Matoisushi – Delicious Sushi, Awful Service

As the owner of a restaurant in NYC and someone who dines out over 200 days a year, I have a deep appreciation for both exceptional food and warm hospitality. Unfortunately, my experience at Gion Matoisushi in Kyoto, while showcasing exquisite sushi, was tarnished by shockingly poor service.

The sushi itself was superb—fresh, expertly crafted, and a clear demonstration of the chef’s technical mastery. However, the head sushi chef’s attitude was appalling. He blatantly ignored us, avoided eye contact, and left us waiting unnecessarily long. My partner, who is Japanese and fluent in the language, ensured that communication was not an issue, making the chef’s disdain for foreigners painfully obvious.

This dismissive and prejudiced behavior created an uncomfortable atmosphere that overshadowed the quality of the meal. As a restaurateur, I know that hospitality is just as important as the food served. At Gion Matoisushi, respect and care for guests were completely absent.

While Kyoto has many incredible sushi restaurants, I cannot recommend Gion Matoisushi. For those who value both exceptional cuisine and genuine hospitality, there are far better options available.

BE CARFUL, RACIST HERE!
when we were trying to get in, the chief who's outside say, japan only with bad attitude. after viewing other's comments, i think what he's doing is NOT protecting his small land, instead, destroy it. since it close its door to public, i mark it as 'does not exist'

They don’t allow foreign people even if you speak Japanese. I asked why and he said “ the tourists are taking over Gion” “I want to protect the space so Japanese people can enjoy”

I have kids in Japan whose mom is Japanese so I’m wondering if they would be allowed in since they are half Japanese or you have to be 100% Japanese.

The kind of racism that makes my stomach turn.

おもてなし無し

The staff didn't let us in when the restaurant was empty saying it was close, even the chief was looking at us with bad eyes. I saw that they were not accepting tourism...

Still shoo-ing away foreigners who don't speak Japanese. Gave us a dirty look as we just walked past it. Came in, bowed, and asked for a table. All that was said was no, no, no, no and made a big X sign with his arms. Then just turned away.