Living in Kyoto 1995-2002 this was my favorite hangout for beer, girls and good mates. Met my wife here too! Great, often packed, wild halloween parties, serious darts team. At that time the master was Ginzo-san, extremely nice guy and good at organising events. Food was so-so, fish and chips the best item on the menu. Drinks a little expensive even by Japanese standards, but I always had a good time here so I figured it was worth it. Of-course I often got tanked up in a cheap Izakaya first before heading over to "The Pig". Good for sporting events especially the world cup. Been a few times since then when revisiting on business trips, somewhat quieter but occasionally has its good nights. Has suffered from a lack of investment and now there are more alternative "foreign" bars in Kyoto - more competition I guess. Nevertheless this is still my favorite place in Kyoto.

Yes, it's a very nice place, with a lot of Brits and gits, but the beer and drinks are EXPENSIVE. It usually is filled with a lot of young, quiet, bright-eyed Japanese youngsters who try to talk to the foreigners and then have a night of roaring laughter and booze they never forget once a friendly British group gathers 'round. Again, some beers are near $8-$10 a bottle, if memory serves me well. Bring at least $100 for a "good" night there. If you see a tall, bald Brit named Alec, tell'm American Matt said "Hi," he may buy you a drink.

Small, friendly staff, didn't try the food but reasonable drink prices considering it's Japan. Lots of pretty young ladies practicing their English (among other things). Two dart boards and some fairly serious shooters.