Bee’s Knees
If you're in Kyoto and looking to unwind with friends over drinks, visit the Bee’s Knee bar. The theme of the bar is a prohibition-era from the US but the cocktail menu options are full of Japanese flavors.
I ordered the Truffle Bee's Knees, which had a nice citrus taste with a hint of truffle. If you enjoy a martini with a twist and crave Umami flavor, try the Da-Shi Martini.
You can order based on your preference since it is a speakeasy but in my opinion a lot of the cocktails on the menu are already unique as it is (see below). The staff are nice and will explain to you the drinks if you are stuck on what to choose.
It is on the pricier end of drinks in Japan but totally worth trying.
Note: They do not take reservations but go a bit early if you want to beat the crowd rush.