Have you heard of a shop called “Muge Sanbo,” whose signature dish is a parfait made with matcha tea—a classic Kyoto specialty?
The item that draws crowds day after day is the “Ultra-Rich Matcha Parfait.”
I hear it’s a real treat for fans of matcha and parfaits…
So, in this post, I’d like to share some information about the shop “Mugai Sanbo” in Kyoto and its signature parfait.
■What is Muge Sanbo?
About a 15-minute walk from Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Subway Line.
As you stroll through the streets of Kyoto, a shop called “Muge-sanbo,” built in the sukiya-style, comes into view.
It is located up a quiet, peaceful slope, accessible by walking through Maruyama Park from Yasaka Shrine.
This restaurant was opened in 2017 near the main branch of “Kikunoi,” a traditional Japanese restaurant that has been awarded three Michelin stars.
Based on the concept of letting guests savor authentic Japanese cuisine, the venue offers coffee, warabi mochi, and other treats in an atmosphere where guests can enjoy a unique, out-of-the-ordinary experience while taking in views that are quintessentially Kyoto.
Just as the name suggests, you can enjoy an atmosphere free of distractions—one of pure tranquility.
With moss and trees in the garden, you can enjoy a meal that combines Kyoto’s flavors with sweets and light snacks while taking in the lovely view.
■The ultra-rich matcha parfait at Muge Sanbo is absolutely delicious!
For many people, the main reason for coming to Mugai Sanbo is to try the “Ultra-Rich Matcha Parfait.”
This is a parfait made with plenty of Uji matcha.
The menu states, “We’ve packed it full of only the finest Uji matcha,” and the parfait creates a breathtaking atmosphere that makes it feel as though you’re looking at a beautiful green garden.
Toppings include red beans, shiratama dumplings, matcha jelly, and castella cake.
The subtle bitterness of Uji matcha pairs perfectly with the red beans and ice cream, creating an exquisite treat that brings out a refined sweetness.
Anyway, as soon as you take a bite, the matcha flavor fills your whole mouth…
It’s quite filling, so if you get hungry while sightseeing, be sure to try the rich matcha parfait.
■ Reviews of Muge Sanbo
What are the reviews and reputation of Muge Sanbo like?
Let's take a look.
・There was a really long line. As expected of a café run by Kikunoi. I’d like to try another kind of parfait sometime.
・If you want to try a luxurious, ultra-rich matcha parfait, this is the place to go. I stopped by for one after lunch, and it was absolutely delicious. If you love matcha, this is a must-try.
・The rich matcha parfait I’d been dreaming of. It was the first time I’d ever seen one with such a deep matcha color. I’ve tried matcha all over Kyoto, but this one is the richest!
・This parfait is generously portioned and very satisfying. There are so many different kinds of desserts here that I’d love to come back.
・If you want to enjoy the flavors of Kikunoi in a casual setting, this is the place: Mugai Sanbo. Their rich matcha parfait is delicious and offers a truly indulgent experience.
■Muge Sanbo's Address and Directions
Finally, let's take a look at the address and directions to Muge Sanbo.
○ Address of Muge Sanbo
524 Washio-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
○ How to Get to Muge Sanbo
Approximately 15 minutes walk from Higashiyama Station on the Subway Tozai Line
○ Homepage
https://kikunoi.jp/kikunoiweb/Muge/index
■ Summary
How was it?
In this post, we’ve shared some fascinating details about the signature dish at Muge Sanbo in Kyoto: the ”Ultra-Rich Matcha Parfait.”
This restaurant, created by the Michelin three-star ryotei "Kikunoi," is located right next to the main branch.
The rich matcha parfait served at this long-established ryotei is renowned as having the best matcha in Kyoto, so be sure to stop by and try it.
