While visiting Kyoto with my college age son we found this place online and decided to try it. It was a bit difficult to find but only because we don't speak Japanese and had some challenges with Google maps. In the end, I called and Shinjo answered and helped us find our way. Bottom line, we arrived and spent the next three hours eating Shinjo's amazing sushi and enjoying the warm vibe of this small sushi bar that is clearly a favorite of locals. We put ourselves in his hands by telling him we were fine with Omakase (Chef's choice) and he did not fail. He asked us what we liked or did not like and then served us an amazing selection of items - including a snow crap nigeri and a fresh, grilled bamboo shoot (very seasonal). He ended the meal with warm noodles cooked bar side and generous pours of sake and Shincho (Japanese "vodka"). The price for the entire meal was very reasonable. Both my son and I had a great evening - I would consider going back to Kyoto just to visit Shinjo. It is a small place - only an 8 seat bar - and only Shinjo works it (although his wife stopped by later to help out). Don't go here if you are in a rush - but don't miss it.

We stumbled on this place as we noticed a little ad in the local Kyoto tourist magazine saying "fresh sushi at reasonable prices." My sister and I both being very big fans of Sushi said why not give it a try.  From the outside Spot looks like a hole in the wall, and on the inside it is just one sushi bar and one chef.  BUT don't be turned off by its size, as this restaurant is a gem in Kyoto or even all of Japan!!  The chef speaks fluent English, is extremely charming, and creates mouth watering sushi dishes that you will most probably write home about!  The best is to tell the chef that you want a nice mix of the day's catch and he will delicately serve up amazing sushi combinations, each time judging your reaction to see what you would like for the next round.  In short if you like fresh sushi, new experiences, and a good conversation with a happy chef, don't miss out on Spot -you won't regret it!!!