We had the same great luck with dining in Japan — food is well prepared, beautifully plated, and high quality everywhere. We had great food in train stations and department stores. If only we could get similar quality food in the US for the same reasonable prices!

If you return to Kyoto, I highly recommend walking in the forest to find this fabulous restaurant which specializes in tofu (but everything, including the beef was fantastic). http://www.shoraian.com/menu/