Benoit opened as a bistro in Paris in 1912. Later Alain Ducasse took over the reins and brought the spirit of ‘good old Benoit’ to Kyoto. The fare consists of familiar favourites such as pâté en croûte, duck confit and millefeuille. Though the walls are glass, the roof is tiled for a touch of Kyoto style and the dining room has a certain Parisian charm. Along with its views of Yasaka Pagoda, it creates a pleasing blend of French and Japanese in the ancient capital.