Tadg’s bills itself the home of craft beer in Kyoto, and rightfully so. It serves such a excellent selection of the finest craft beers from Japan and abroad that many guests who make the pilgrimage from other regional cities consider it the craft beer capital of central Japan. The bar-restaurant is named after its friendly bear of an owner, Tadg (pronounced Taig), who appreciates the craftsmanship that goes into making much of the fine brew served here because he is a craftsman himself—of fine cuisine. The experience of Tadg’s is not complete without giving both menus, alcoholic and gastronomic, their due attention. The appeal of this place, however, is not limited to what it serves. Tadg’s hosts occasional live shows that are much better than your average pub amateur acts— you probably should stay to hear the whole set (and have a few more pints). Tadg’s typical clientele are also friendly, sometimes even quite enlightening—maybe it’s not the supposed sophistication of Kyoto culture that’s fully responsible. Students, professors, artists and other cultured types just seem to gravitate to a generally good scene…and good beer.

Tadg asserts he is a chef first, not a beer sommelier. His experience and creativity in cooking shows in the way he redefines traditional dishes, particular those from his Irish homeland. His pies (pot pies) are culinary art, with crisp, flaky crust and a rich, creamy sauce that provides a full flavor perfect for pairing with complex beers. Tadg doesn’t stop at traditional pub fare; his pastas and pizzas also show thought and skilled execution. Don’t expect anything bland or quick-made. Expect a proper meal.

He tends to cull his beers from regional options—Isekadoya, Kyoto Shusan Kaido, etc—with the exception of his imports, mostly from the U.S. West Coast. His pints are reasonably priced and served in great condition. Having transitioned to craft in 2010, and with a robust selection that changes weekly, perhaps you can’t expect his young, international staff to possess the knowledge of a beer geek, but they do their best. You probably don’t need to worry, though. Except maybe for the one or two mainstream beers he has for less adventurous drinkers, there’s no crap on tap at Tadg’s.