Pizzeria da Ciro

Asia’s Top-Tier Pizza, Tucked Away Near the Philosopher’s Path
Just a short stroll from the serene Philosopher’s Path lies an azure-blue sanctuary that has redefined the pizza scene in Kyoto. Pizzeria da Ciro is not just a local favorite; it is a globally recognized institution, ranked 36th in the "50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific 2026." As the first and only dedicated Neapolitan pizzeria in Kyoto, it stands as a testament to the fact that true excellence requires no local adaptation—only a fierce loyalty to tradition.

A Portal to Naples: The Blue Sanctuary
Stepping inside is like being transported to a neighborhood trattoria in Naples. The interior is a tribute to SSC Napoli, the city’s legendary football team, with its signature light blue accents and classic checkered tablecloths. At the heart of the shop sits a massive, custom-built wood-fired oven—the largest of its kind in Western Japan—imported directly from Italy to ensure every pizza is kissed by the perfect flame.

The Living Dough: A Masterclass in Fermentation
The secret to Ciro’s success lies in Chef Nakano’s obsession with his dough. Using a traditional room-temperature, short-fermentation method, he treats the dough as a living thing. Every morning and evening, the ratios of Caputo flour, sea salt, water, and lievito (yeast) are adjusted based on the day’s humidity and temperature. This meticulous "backward calculation" ensures that the dough reaches its absolute peak of flavor exactly when it hits your table. The result is a crust that is airy, crisp, and infused with the intoxicating aroma of charred wood.

The Absolute Ruler: Margherita con Mozzarella di Bufala
If you eat only one thing, let it be the Buffalo Mozzarella Margherita. It is a revelation in simplicity. The cheese is creamy and rich, tasting of fresh milk rather than mere fat. The tomato sauce is vibrant, and the dough possesses a slight saltiness that makes the cornicione (the crust edge) a delicacy in its own right. It is a pizza that demands respect, proving that the most traditional way is, in fact, the most delicious way.

The "Pizza Flow": A Masterpiece of Hospitality
At Ciro, the experience is carefully orchestrated. When sharing multiple pizzas with friends or family, the kitchen paces the delivery so that each pie is enjoyed at its absolute temperature peak. One finishes, and the next arrives, bubbling and fragrant. Whether it’s the vibrant Pesto Genovese—using a recipe from the chef's training days in Naples—or the dessert-like Quattro Formaggi, each slice is a result of a chef who understands the "rhythm" of a perfect meal.

A True Destination for the Global Traveler
While Kyoto is famous for its kaiseki and temples, Pizzeria da Ciro offers a different kind of spiritual experience. It is the story of a Japanese chef who mastered a foreign craft so completely that he surpassed the masters. For those who have spent weeks eating traditional Japanese fare, this is the ultimate "reset" meal—a world-class pizza in a quiet Kyoto neighborhood that feels, for a moment, like a bustling street in Italy.

Secure Your Slice via TableEX Concierge
With its recent surge to the top of the Asian rankings, securing a table at Pizzeria da Ciro has become a challenge for locals and tourists alike. The small, focused nature of the shop means that peak fermentation times sell out weeks in advance. TableEX acts as your direct link to Chef Nakano’s kitchen, managing the reservation process to ensure you experience Kyoto’s most famous pizza at the exact moment the dough is at its best.

Traveler’s FAQ: Expert Guidance for Your Visit

Is a reservation absolutely necessary?
Yes. Since being ranked 36th in Asia, the shop is perpetually fully booked. To experience this level of craftsmanship, we recommend requesting your table through TableEX at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance.

Which pizza is the "must-order"?
The Margherita con Mozzarella di Bufala is the undisputed king. For those looking for something unique, the Pesto Genovese is made using specific techniques Chef Nakano learned during his residency at "Presidente" in Naples.

Can we bring children?
Absolutely. Pizzeria da Ciro is a warm, family-friendly environment. Watching the chef work the massive wood-fired oven is a highlight for guests of all ages. Please let us know if you need space for a stroller when booking.

How is the pizza served?
The shop prides itself on serving pizzas one by one to ensure you eat them while the cheese is still bubbling. If you prefer all pizzas to arrive at once, please inform the staff, though we highly recommend following the chef’s preferred "flow."

Where is the restaurant located?
It is located near the northern end of the Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku-no-michi). It’s an ideal spot for a high-end lunch after visiting Ginkaku-ji (The Silver Pavilion).