This spring, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto unveils a new chapter in its beverage and dining story with the transformation of The Lounge & Bar into SEY, a concept-driven destination that blends modern craftsmanship with deeply rooted Japanese ritual.
Opening its doors on April 1, 2026, SEY introduces a reimagined experience in the heart of Higashiyama, where design, flavour, and atmosphere are shaped by the hotel’s celebrated 800-year-old heritage pond garden. Seasonal transitions from cherry blossom hues to autumn’s burnished tones are reflected throughout the space, creating an immersive setting that evolves throughout the year.
Drawing from the spirit of traditional izakaya culture, SEY places local Japanese ingredients and craftsmanship at the forefront. The bar’s program combines contemporary mixology techniques with heritage influences, offering a menu of cocktails that distill Japan’s identity into each glass.
Alongside these creations is a curated selection of artisanal local spirits, including premium Japanese whiskies, paired with elevated bar snacks designed to complement the drinking experience.
“Kyoto reveals itself slowly, to those who return. This philosophy shapes every detail at SEY,” says Jonathan Montolieu, Director of Food and Beverage. “Our renewed offerings spark surprise, yet also provide the comfort of time-honoured Japanese artistry.”
The cocktail menu at SEY unfolds as a narrative of Japanese history, ingredients, and regional inspiration:
- Smoky Old Fashioned – A refined take on the classic, featuring Japanese grain whiskey enhanced with sansho pepper and house-made cinnamon maple syrup. The drink is finished with cherry wood smoke, evoking Kyoto’s long-standing incense traditions.
- Oyasumi – Meaning “good night,” this tropical nightcap draws inspiration from Okinawa. Okinawan rum is paired with mango and brown sugar from the island, balancing richness with a restrained finish.
Complementing the drinks is a menu of izakaya-style dishes reinterpreted with modern technique:
- SEY Karaage – A bold take on Japanese fried chicken, finished with a charcoal accent.
- Chutoro Chirashi Box – A refined presentation of chirashi served in a lacquered box.
- Slow-Roasted Pork Ribs – Inspired by braised pork belly, cooked over nine hours for exceptional tenderness.
Rather than focusing on spectacle, SEY emphasizes continuity and familiarity. The experience is designed to deepen over time, with attentive service that remembers guest preferences and fosters a sense of belonging.
Set against one of Kyoto’s most storied garden backdrops, SEY positions itself not just as a bar, but as an evolving ritual where cocktails, cuisine, and setting come together in quiet harmony.