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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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Kusatsu: The Ultimate Experience of Sake and Seafood

Discover Your Perfect Drink and Exquisite Meal in Kusatsu

A heartfelt welcome to all visitors to Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture. For those wishing to spend a special time in this city, we are delighted to introduce you to the exceptional dining experience we proudly offer.

You might be searching for that perfect spot to enhance your time in Kusatsu. Perhaps you're looking to enjoy Kusatsu Station Daytime Drinks after work or during sightseeing, find a Kusatsu All-You-Can-Drink Course for a special evening, or savor Kusatsu Sake alongside seasonal delicacies. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming to decide where and how to create the best memories.

To meet these expectations, we await you with carefully selected ingredients, meticulously prepared dishes, and heartwarming hospitality. We promise to offer not just a place to eat, but a rich experience that satisfies all five senses.

Kusatsu Sake and Seasonal Seafood: A Blissful Harmony

One of the things we value most is the perfect pairing of carefully selected sake from across Japan with the freshest seafood caught that very day. We hope that not only customers who deeply love Kusatsu Sake, but also those who haven't had much experience with sake, will discover its profound depth and wonderful compatibility with our dishes.

The Allure of Carefully Selected Kusatsu Sake

We always offer a rich and varied lineup of sake that changes with the seasons. From rare bottles painstakingly brewed by local kuramoto (sake breweries) to renowned sakes from across Japan, and even special seasonal-only varieties, you can enjoy the diverse expressions of Kusatsu Sake. Its flavors range from dry and sweet to fruity and rich. We will suggest the perfect bottle tailored to your preferences and considering its compatibility with the dishes you order.

  • From Junmai to Daiginjo: We offer a wide range, including Junmai sake that highlights the umami of rice and Daiginjo sake with its elegant aroma.
  • Seasonal Limited-Edition Sake: Discover fresh new sake in spring, refreshing summer sake, and mellow hiyaoroshi in autumn, pursuing the flavors of each season.
  • Sake Tasting Set: Our popular tasting sets allow you to compare small quantities of several sakes to discover your personal favorites.

The Perfect Pairing with Freshly Caught Kusatsu Seafood

To fully bring out the charm of sake, nothing beats fresh seafood. We daily prepare exceptionally fresh Kusatsu Seafood, sourced directly from fishing ports across Japan. For instance, we offer a rich menu thoughtfully paired with Kusatsu Sake, including sashimi with its plump sweetness, aromatic grilled seafood, and simmered dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients.

  • Today's Assorted Sashimi: We carefully select the freshest seasonal seafood of the day and arrange it vibrantly.
  • Charcoal-Grilled Seafood: Slowly grilling over charcoal concentrates the inherent umami of the seafood and brings out its rich aroma.
  • Seasonal Shellfish: Fresh shellfish, which change with the seasons, further enhance the delicate flavors of sake.

For example, a light and dry sake will enhance the delicate sweetness of white fish, while a rich Junmai sake will allow you to savor the deeper umami of fatty tuna or bonito. Our staff possesses extensive knowledge regarding sake and seafood pairings, so please feel free to consult them.

Daytime Indulgence! Kusatsu Station Daytime Drinks and Exquisite Specialties

Our establishment's charm lies in allowing those who wish to enjoy delicious drinks and cuisine from noon to indulge to their heart's content. Kusatsu Station Daytime Drinks offer a unique experience where you can spend quality time in a relaxed, open atmosphere different from the evening.

Expand Your Free Time with Kusatsu Station Daytime Drinks

Spending relaxed time in our brightly lit establishment during the afternoon will make you forget the stresses of daily life. Please enjoy Kusatsu Station Daytime Drinks after shopping or as an early dinner. You can savor your favorite sake alongside our carefully selected specialties in a calmer atmosphere than in the evening.

  • Easy for Solo Diners: At the counter seats, we offer half-sized sake and small appetizer portions, making it easy for solo diners to enjoy daytime drinks without hesitation.
  • Lunch and Daytime Drink Combination: You can enjoy a full meal while slowly savoring your favorite sake.
  • Open Atmosphere: Enjoying drinks in a relaxed space, uniquely felt during the bright hours of the day, is truly special.

Artisan Craftsmanship Shines in Salt-Seared Bonito in Kusatsu

Indispensable for our daytime drinks is our proud Salt-Seared Bonito. This exquisite dish features fresh bonito, quickly seared over straw to impart a fragrant aroma, then seasoned with carefully selected salt using our unique method. The fresh bonito, directly delivered from Kochi Prefecture, boasts firm flesh, and its rich umami and straw-seared aroma create an unforgettable sensation in your mouth.

  • Fragrance of Straw-Seared Bonito: Quickly searing over a straw flame locks in the bonito's umami and imparts a unique aroma.
  • With Special Salt: Instead of soy sauce, savor the bonito's inherent delicate flavor to the fullest by enjoying it with our special mineral-rich salt.
  • Harmony with Condiments: Enjoy various flavor changes by pairing it with seasonal condiments such as fresh garlic slices, myoga ginger, and green onions.

A crisp, dry Kusatsu Sake pairs exceptionally well with this Salt-Seared Bonito in Kusatsu. The rich umami of the bonito and the sharp finish of the sake will complement each other, offering a blissful pairing experience.

A Heartwarming Experience: Kusatsu Steamed Dishes and Comprehensive Kusatsu All-You-Can-Drink Courses

For special occasion dinners or lively gatherings with friends and family, we recommend our soul-satisfying steamed dishes and our worry-free all-you-can-drink courses for organizers. Gather around Kusatsu Sake and create memorable moments.

The Appeal of Kusatsu Steamed Dishes for a Happy Body

Steaming is a cooking method that maximizes the natural flavors of ingredients, resulting in plump and tender finishes. Vegetables become sweeter, while meat and fish turn incredibly soft and juicy. Excess fat drips away, and nutrients are preserved, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.

  • Umami of Carefully Selected Ingredients: We luxuriously use fresh seasonal vegetables from Shiga Prefecture, high-quality meat, and seafood that varies based on daily procurement.
  • Special Broth and Sauces: Enjoy the steamed ingredients with your preferred seasoning, such as ponzu or sesame sauce, from our special house-made sauces.
  • Warm Your Heart and Body: Dining around a steaming seiro (bamboo steamer) provides visual warmth and stimulates lively conversation.

A Junmai Ginjo, where the umami of rice is clearly felt, or a Junmai sake with a gentle aroma, pair exceptionally well with Kusatsu Steamed Dishes. They will enhance the meal without overpowering the delicate flavors of the steamed cuisine.

Peace of Mind for Organizers! A Special Evening with Kusatsu All-You-Can-Drink Courses

Our comprehensive Kusatsu All-You-Can-Drink Courses are extremely popular for banquets and parties. We offer multiple courses differing in the number and content of dishes, as well as beverage types, allowing you to choose according to your occasion and budget.

  • Catering to Various Needs: We offer courses that can accommodate a wide range of needs, from casual small gatherings to large farewell and welcome parties, year-end and New Year parties.
  • All-You-Can-Drink Including Kusatsu Sake: Some courses include a selection of Kusatsu Sake in the all-you-can-drink menu, satisfying even sake enthusiasts.
  • Seasonal Special Menus: Seasonal limited-time courses, lavishly using fresh ingredients, are also available.
  • Private Bookings Available: For large groups, private bookings are also possible, so please feel free to inquire.

For example, for company banquets, we recommend courses with classic dishes that colleagues will enjoy, along with an all-you-can-drink option that includes beer and sours, as well as shochu and sake. For a special evening with family or friends, adding a sake tasting option featuring carefully selected Kusatsu Sake to a course with slightly more luxurious ingredients would be an excellent choice.

On-the-Day Experience: Practical Steps for a Richer Visit

To help you maximize your enjoyment of your time at our establishment, we provide practical tips for a richer experience, from before your arrival, throughout your visit, and even after you leave.

Preparation Before Your Visit

To ensure a smooth experience, we recommend making a reservation in advance, especially when planning to visit on weekends, holidays, or with a group.

  • Please use our phone or online reservation system.
  • It will be smoother if you inform us of your preferred date and time, number of guests, desired course, and seating preference (counter, table, private room, etc.).
  • If you have any food allergies or ingredients you dislike, please feel free to inform us at this time. We will accommodate them as much as possible.

How to Enjoy Your Time at Our Restaurant

Here are some tips for enjoying delicious dishes and Kusatsu Sake to your heart's content after you arrive.

  • First, Consult Our Staff: If you're unsure which Kusatsu Sake to choose, our staff will gladly explain and suggest the best bottle for your preferences. Please feel free to ask about seasonal recommendations or limited-edition sakes.
  • Easy for Solo Diners: At the counter seats, you can enjoy watching the chefs at work and engaging in conversation with our staff. Solo diners are welcome to relax and feel at ease.
  • Enjoy Food Pairing: Once you've decided on your favorite sake, try choosing dishes that complement it. Conversely, it can also be fun to select a sake based on the dishes you wish to eat.

For Unforgettable Memories

Delicious food and Kusatsu Sake are the finest spices to enrich daily life.

  • Take your time to savor the flavors of each dish.
  • Share the joy of dining with loved ones, alongside good conversation.
  • Photos of the wonderful food, sake, and atmosphere will surely become cherished memories.

For an even more fulfilling experience, please also refer to the following steps:

  1. Reservations in advance ensure peace of mind. Please inform us of your group size and preferences by phone or online.
  2. If in doubt, consult our staff first. We will offer the best suggestions tailored to your tastes and the occasion.
  3. Value the encounter with seasonal limited-edition Kusatsu Sake and fresh seafood, and be sure to try them.
  4. Whether it's lively conversation with companions or quiet solo time, you can enjoy both to your heart's content.
  5. Please enjoy your delicious time to the fullest. That is our greatest joy.

Summary

From those who deeply love Kusatsu Sake to those who simply want to enjoy a casual drink at Kusatsu Station Daytime Drinks, and those wishing to spend special time with loved ones through a Kusatsu All-You-Can-Drink Course – our restaurant is a place where all customers can find satisfaction.

Please enjoy to your heart's content our meticulously crafted dishes, such as those lavishly using fresh Kusatsu Seafood, the Salt-Seared Bonito in Kusatsu delicately prepared by our artisans, and the heartwarming Kusatsu Steamed Dishes, all paired with carefully selected Kusatsu Sake. 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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