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Written from behind the counter

Why the iron plate makes a difference to bonito. How to read a sake list without reading all sixteen labels. What actually changes when fish comes straight from the port. These are the things we get asked across the counter, written down. Where we are not sure, we say so.

Three subjects, roughly. First, the fish: what actually changes when it comes straight from Tsuruga or Tosa-Saga instead of through a market, and why that shows up in sashimi before anything else. Second, the fire: the iron plate comes up hot and fast, which is why the surface of a bonito chars while the inside stays raw — and why we salt it rather than dress it. Third, the sake: sixteen labels is too many to read standing up, so we write about how to narrow it down by what you are eating rather than by the name on the bottle. These are the questions we actually get asked across the counter, written down afterwards. Where we are not sure, we say we are not sure.

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Special Day Drinking at Kusatsu Station! Enjoy a Holiday of Seafood and Sake

Why is Daytime Drinking at Kusatsu Station So Appealing?

The sense of freedom that comes from raising a glass in the sunlit afternoon is a special experience you can't get at night. Enjoying delicious drinks and food during the bright hours of the day, which we call day drinking at Kusatsu Station, allows you to forget the daily hustle and bustle. It's truly a doorway to an extraordinary experience.

Unlike the clamor of the evening, you can enjoy the pleasure of unhurried conversation or the luxury of a quiet moment to yourself. Our establishment, Sakaba Stand Uomaru, offers a new style of Kusatsu izakaya: day drinking. The very phrase day drinking at Kusatsu Station should evoke a sense of release from your daily routine and build excitement for a new experience.

  • A feeling of openness and escape in the bright daylight hours
  • Savoring fine food and drinks in a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere
  • A special moment just for yourself or to share with someone important

Answering Your Questions to Help You Take the First Step into Day Drinking

However, when you feel the urge to drink from the afternoon, do you ever find yourself unsure of where to go? While there are many Kusatsu izakayas, you might feel that places where you can casually and fully enjoy yourself from noon are limited. Perhaps you have some of the following questions or concerns.

  • There are plenty of izakayas near Kusatsu Station, but aren't there few that are open from noon?
  • I'm worried if I can enjoy authentic izakaya dishes and drinks during lunchtime.
  • I want to try solo drinking in Kusatsu, but will I feel out of place entering a bar alone in the afternoon?
  • I want to know if day drinking offers a unique experience compared to visiting an izakaya at night.
  • Since I'm going out, I want to fully enjoy delicious Kusatsu seafood and Kusatsu sake.

These are common questions for anyone thinking of trying day drinking. Our restaurant, Sakaba Stand Uomaru, located right by Kusatsu Station, is here to grant your wish to enjoy delicious drinks and food from the afternoon. Now, we'll introduce the charms of our establishment and offer concrete tips for making the most of your day drinking experience.

A Blissful Day Drinking Experience Woven from Fresh Seafood and Sake

The true delight of day drinking at Kusatsu Station lies in savoring the fresh bounty of the sea and perfectly paired, carefully selected sake. Even in the bright daylight hours, we offer authentic seafood dishes and sake that rival any evening menu, helping to create a special moment for you.

Luxuriate in Kusatsu Seafood Delivered Fresh Every Morning

  • Exceptionally Fresh Seafood: We prepare seafood delivered directly from the market every morning. You can luxuriously enjoy fish and shellfish caught that very day, right from the afternoon. Our glistening assorted sashimi platter is a feast for the eyes and will make your day drinking experience even more vibrant.
  • Our Specialty, Katsuo no Shio Tataki (Salt-Seared Bonito) in Kusatsu: Bursting with rich aroma and umami, our Katsuo no Shio Tataki in Kusatsu is one of our signature dishes. The fragrant flavor, achieved by carefully searing it over straw, spreads through your mouth instantly and pairs exceptionally well with sake. You can fully indulge in its rich taste even from the afternoon.
  • Healthy Kusatsu Seiro-mushi (Steamed Dishes) Also Available: For day drinking, some may prefer a lighter yet satisfying dish. Our Kusatsu Seiro-mushi allows you to enjoy the natural flavors of seasonal vegetables and seafood, steamed to fluffy perfection. It's warm and easy on the stomach, making it ideal for slowly savoring alongside your drinks.
  • A Variety of À La Carte Dishes: In addition to assorted sashimi, we offer a wide range of creative à la carte dishes using fresh seafood. From seasonal seafood carpaccio to grilled or fried fish that maximizes the ingredients' flavors, we have many items with just the right portion size for enjoying from midday.

Discovering Kusatsu Sake: An Afternoon Pairing

  • A Sake Lineup Selected by the Owner: We always have over 20 types of sake from all over Japan, handpicked by our owner. From dry to sweet, from rich to crisp, you can choose according to your mood and your meal. Day drinking is the perfect opportunity to try a few different types and find a new favorite.
  • If You're Unsure, Just Ask Our Staff: Even if you're not a sake expert, don't worry. Our knowledgeable staff will suggest the best pairing for your meal based on your preferences. Feel free to ask, What do you recommend today? or What kind of sake goes with this sashimi? Discovering a new sake will surely deepen your enjoyment of day drinking.
  • Rare, Seasonal Brands Also Available: In addition to our regular lineup, we actively stock rare seasonal sakes and local jizake from Shiga Prefecture. Day drinking is a great chance to try a rare bottle you don't often get to drink. We invite you to find your favorite sake while considering its pairing with your food.

A Free and Lively Day Drinking Experience at Our Standing Bar in Front of Kusatsu Station

Among the many izakayas near Kusatsu Station, the Kusatsu standing bar style offered at Sakaba Stand Uomaru expands the possibilities of day drinking. Its greatest charm is its lack of formality, allowing anyone to enjoy themselves casually and in their own way.

The Appeal of a Kusatsu Standing Bar: Casual and Comfortable

  • Excellent Access, Right by Kusatsu Station: Among the izakayas near Kusatsu Station, we are particularly close to the station, making it easy to stop by after work or shopping. When day drinking, you can enjoy yourself to the fullest without worrying about train schedules. The directions from the station are simple, so even first-time visitors can find us without getting lost.
  • A Lively Yet Relaxed Atmosphere: A standing bar during the day has a different feel from the hustle and bustle of an evening izakaya. You can spend your time in a lively yet somewhat calm atmosphere. Chat with close friends on a holiday afternoon, or savor a drink while reading a book alone—spend your time as you please.
  • From a Quick Drink to a Long Stay: Just because it's a standing bar doesn't mean you have to leave quickly. Of course, you're welcome to have a quick drink as part of your Kusatsu Station day drinking tour and then head to your next destination. You can also lose track of time while slowly savoring your favorite food and sake. Enjoy it freely, in your own style.

For Solo Drinkers and Groups Alike! Various Ways to Enjoy Day Drinking at Sakaba Stand Uomaru

At Sakaba Stand Uomaru, we offer various ways to enjoy day drinking to suit each customer's style. From solo drinking in Kusatsu to fun gatherings with groups, we have designed our space so you can enjoy any occasion to the fullest.

The Perfect Space for Solo Drinking in Kusatsu

  • Counter Seats for a Carefree Experience: Our standing bar style is perfect for those considering solo drinking in Kusatsu. The counter seats are designed for a comfortable solo experience, allowing you to enjoy your own time without worrying about others.
  • Conversation with Staff is Also a Plus: Our staff values conversation with customers. Even if you come alone, feel free to talk to us about the food, sake, or local Kusatsu topics. We'll make sure you don't feel lonely in our welcoming, at-home atmosphere.
  • Cherish Your Own Time: You can spend your time reading a book or browsing on your smartphone. Of course, natural interactions with other customers and staff are also part of the day drinking charm. You might even make a new acquaintance.

Also Great for Groups! Our Kusatsu All-You-Can-Drink Course

  • Catering to Larger Groups for Day Drinking: For those planning a Kusatsu Station day drinking event with friends or a small celebration, we also offer a Kusatsu all-you-can-drink course. It's a comprehensive package where you can enjoy an abundance of fresh seafood dishes and drink to your heart's content. We can also flexibly accommodate requests for private bookings during the day, so please feel free to inquire.
  • A Variety of Courses Available: We offer several Kusatsu all-you-can-drink courses to meet our customers' needs, such as courses featuring plenty of seasonal ingredients or those centered around specific seafood. You can choose based on your budget and purpose, from luxurious courses with seasonal seafood to more casual, affordable options.
  • An Extensive Drink Menu: Beer, shochu, and sours are of course included, and some courses may also include sake in the all-you-can-drink menu. Enjoy a wide variety of drinks and let the conversation flow. A daytime party has a different sense of openness and specialness than an evening one and is sure to be a memorable occasion.

A Practical Guide to Making the Most of Your Day Drinking Experience at Kusatsu Station

Here are some tips to ensure you have the best day drinking experience at our restaurant, Sakaba Stand Uomaru. Please use them when you visit.

  1. Choose Your Visiting Time:
    • Right After Opening (around 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM): This time is relatively quiet and recommended for those who want a relaxing experience. It's easier to chat with the staff, and you might get to hear about the day's fresh catches.
    • Off-Peak Hours (around 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): After the lunch rush and before evening preparations begin, you can enjoy day drinking in a more relaxed atmosphere. The time when the sun begins to set is particularly pleasant.
  2. Tips for Choosing Your Menu:
    • Start with the Classic Seafood Dishes: Our Katsuo no Shio Tataki in Kusatsu and today's assorted sashimi are signature items. Fully enjoy the fresh bounty of the sea. Ask our staff or check the blackboard for the day's arrivals.
    • Enjoy Pairing Sake with Your Food: Feel free to ask our staff for Kusatsu sake recommendations that pair well with your dishes. An unexpected combination can lead to a new culinary discovery. For example, we can suggest a crisp, dry sake for fatty fish or a fruity ginjo for delicate white fish.
    • Make Use of Lighter Dishes: Just because you're day drinking doesn't mean you have to start with heavy dishes. You could begin with a light snack like atemaki (sushi rolls as appetizers) or a vegetable dish. We recommend trying a little bit of various dishes.
  3. No Worries for Solo Drinking in Kusatsu:
    • Our counter seats are designed for a comfortable solo experience. Our staff values conversation with customers, so you won't feel lonely. If there's a menu item you're curious about, please don't hesitate to ask.
    • Feel free to spend your time reading or browsing on your smartphone. Of course, interacting with other customers and staff is also part of the day drinking fun.
  4. For Group Visits:
    • We recommend making a reservation in advance, especially on weekends or for larger groups (4 or more people). Please call us to ensure a comfortable visit.
    • If you would like a Kusatsu all-you-can-drink course, please check the details in advance and mention it when you book for a smoother experience. Please note that course contents may change with the seasons, so please check for the latest information.
  5. Tips for Enjoyment:
    • Feel the Light Coming Through the Window: Enjoy the liberating feeling in the bright atmosphere unique to day drinking. Food and sake enjoyed in natural light taste exceptional.
    • Experience the Changing Seasons: Another joy of day drinking is the changing lineup, including seasonal limited-time menus with fresh ingredients and limited-edition sakes. Please enjoy the flavors of each season.
    • Make It Your Own Secret Spot: We would be delighted if you would add Sakaba Stand Uomaru to your list of favorite day drinking spots as a place to spend a special time, different from the usual.

Make Your Kusatsu Station Day Drinking a Special Experience at Sakaba Stand Uomaru

We've detailed the appeal of day drinking at Kusatsu Station and how to enjoy it at our establishment, Sakaba Stand Uomaru.

  • Luxuriate in fresh Kusatsu seafood from the afternoon, savoring our Katsuo no Shio Tataki in Kusatsu and Kusatsu Seiro-mushi.
  • Discover Kusatsu sake handpicked by our owner and enjoy the best pairings with your food.
  • Enjoy the casualness of a Kusatsu standing bar for a fulfilling solo drinking in Kusatsu session, or have a blast with close friends with a Kusatsu all-you-can-drink course.
  • Easily visit us thanks to our prime location among izakayas near Kusatsu Station.

All of this awaits you at Sakaba Stand Uomaru. Day drinking offers a special time that is different from an evening at an izakaya. Slowly savoring delicious food and drinks in the daylight will surely enrich your holiday.

To everyone looking for a Kusatsu izakaya, please open our door once. We will help make your day drinking at Kusatsu Station a most memorable experience. We sincerely look forward to your visit.

Reserve

Reading is one thing; the fire is another

The iron plate is hot from the moment we open — 17:00 on weekdays, 13:00 at weekends and on public holidays and on public holidays, 15:00 on the second Sunday of the month. Two minutes from the east exit of JR Kusatsu Station.

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