Kid Kyoto
restaurantlaid backquirky
A grunge-inspired Japanese izakaya hidden down a cobbled CBD lane, serving creative cocktails and punchy dishes to the soundtrack of '90s alternative rock.
4.3
(1,101 reviews)$$GoogleHappy Hour Deals
Happy Hour
- $10 beers
- $10 wines
- $15 cocktails
Tuesday – Saturday
3:00pm – 5:00pm
Best For
BarTakes ReservationsWheelchair AccessibleBar FoodIzakaya
Entry via, 17-19 Bridge Street, Bridge Lane, Sydney CBD 2000
View on Google MapsOpening Hours
MondayTodayClosed
Tuesday12pm – 10pm
Wednesday12pm – 10pm
Thursday12pm – 3pm
Friday12pm – 10pm
Saturday12pm – 10pm
SundayClosed
The Vibe
- Finding the entrance: Kid Kyoto is tucked down cobbled Bridge Lane, marked by aqua neon signage and guitar-driven tunes spilling from the doorway.
- The space: Inside, exposed ceilings meet polished concrete floors under dim lighting, with a "come as you are" sign written in kanji setting the rebellious tone.
- The soundtrack: '80s and '90s grunge anthems - think Nirvana, Radiohead and Blur - create an unexpected backdrop for Japanese dining.
- The crowd: A mix drawn by the alternative concept, from date-night pairs to groups looking for something different from standard CBD dining. The atmosphere balances casual izakaya energy with Sydney's modern dining trends, creating an abstract but surprisingly cohesive experience.
What People Love
- Standout dishes: The pork belly yakitori with wasabi-caper tare gets regular mentions, alongside the kransky corn dog with karashi mustard and kewpie mayo - a playful take on Japanese-Australian fusion.
- Menu favourites: Long-running hits include the watermelon sashimi with tamari dressing and wakame, plus the chicken tsukune. The marinated eggplant with smoked yoghurt and almond furikake shows the kitchen's creative approach to seasonal produce.
- Drinks program: Creative cocktails backed by an extensive sake and shochu selection, with regular tasting events for spirit enthusiasts.
- The concept: The rebellious izakaya theme resonates - diners appreciate finding contemporary Japanese cuisine with a grunge edge in the heart of the CBD.
The Neighbourhood
- Location: Set on Bridge Lane between Bridge Street numbers 17-19, Kid Kyoto occupies one of the CBD's quieter cobbled backstreets away from the main pedestrian flow.
- The strip: The venue sits in the heart of Sydney's central business district, surrounded by office buildings and accessible to the after-work crowd.
- Transport: Close to Circular Quay and within walking distance of multiple train stations, making it convenient for both city workers and visitors.
- The area: Bridge Lane offers a more intimate dining experience compared to the busier restaurant strips on George or Pitt Streets, with the cobbled surface adding character to the urban setting.
Nearby in Sydney CBD
Ratings from Google