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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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Uomaru Kusatsu: Your Destination for a Fresh and Fulfilling Seafood Experience

Just a Short Walk from JR Kusatsu Station! Welcome to the Lively Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu

Located on a main street just a short distance from JR Kusatsu Station, Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu is a seafood izakaya that prides itself on fresh ocean delights and a vibrant atmosphere. As you open the door, you'll be greeted by the bright smiles of our staff and the savory aromas wafting from the open kitchen. The time spent savoring delicious food and drinks, forgetting the hustle and bustle of daily life, is truly a blissful moment. We provide a memorable dining experience in a warm space where everyone, from first-timers to regulars, feels like saying, I'm home.

  • A convenient location, just a short walk from Kusatsu Station.
  • Versatile enough to accommodate a variety of occasions, from solo diners to large parties.
  • We are bustling day and night, with daytime drinking available from 1:00 PM on weekends.

Our mission is to maximize the joy of dining for our customers. Beyond the deliciousness of our dishes, we take great care to ensure that our guests can dine with peace of mind and enjoy their meal to the fullest.

Our Commitment to 'Peace of Mind' for Every Customer

Many customers might feel, I enjoy dining out, but I sometimes worry about the ingredients or preparation methods. This is especially true if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns, which can make choosing a restaurant difficult. We sincerely approach our food preparation so that you can always enjoy your meal with confidence. In fact, a recent survey showed that approximately 70% of customers prioritize 'safety and security' when selecting a restaurant. It is our sincere wish to listen to these voices and provide the best possible experience.

Deep Understanding of Ingredients and Detailed Information

At Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu, the star of the show is the fresh seafood we source daily, direct from the fishing port. Our experienced chefs carefully inspect every fish to determine its origin and condition. When we serve our dishes, we make it a point to carefully explain the seasonal fish of the day, the ingredients used, and our recommended preparation methods.

  • Maximizing seasonal seafood: We select only the finest ingredients of the day.
  • Commitment to cooking methods: We use optimal techniques to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  • An open approach to answering questions: If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to ask our staff.

Warm Communication with Customers Creates a Sense of Security

Our restaurant is centered around counter seats that surround an open kitchen, creating a close connection between customers and staff. This allows you to deepen your understanding of the food through conversation with our team while you wait or as you eat. Simple questions like, What kind of seasoning goes well with this fish? or What ingredients are in this dish? are always welcome, so please don't hesitate to ask.

  1. First, take a look at our menu: Find a dish that catches your eye, from our seasonal specials to our regular favorites.
  2. Feel free to ask questions: Our staff will be happy to provide detailed answers about ingredients and cooking methods.
  3. Tell us your preferences: Even a general request like, I'd like something light, can help us suggest the perfect dish for you.
  4. Feel the energy of our staff: Their cheerful service enhances the enjoyment of your dining experience.

Our goal is for you to thoroughly enjoy every moment—from deciding what to eat, to waiting for your dish, to the very first bite. To achieve this, we listen closely to each customer and provide meticulous attention to detail. If you have any worries or requests, please feel free to let us know. Your peace of mind and satisfaction are our greatest joy.

Exquisite Dishes Featuring Port-Direct Freshness and Culinary Craftsmanship

The greatest appeal of Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu lies in the fresh seafood delivered daily from the fishing port and the skill of our master chefs who present it in its best form. The aroma of the sea that fills your mouth at the first bite and the melt-in-your-mouth texture create an unforgettable, moving experience.

The 'Port-Direct Assorted Sashimi Platter': A Concentration of Seasonal Bounties

Our signature dish is the 'Port-Direct Assorted Sashimi Platter.' We carefully select and beautifully arrange the best seasonal fish of the day. The contents change with the seasons, offering a unique taste with every visit. Available for 2 or more people at market price, we are confident you will find it well worth the value. For example, enjoy fatty winter yellowtail in the winter and cherry sea bream in the spring, savoring the distinct flavors of each season.

  • Contents change with the daily catch: There's always something new to discover each time you visit.
  • Exceptional freshness, texture, and flavor: The more you chew, the more the fish's natural taste unfolds.
  • Visually stunning presentation: A feast for the eyes that excites you before you even take a bite.

Our Signature Dishes: From Aromatic 'Seared Spanish Mackerel' to Heartwarming 'Dashimaki Tamago'

But our specialties don't end there. The fragrant 'Seared Spanish Mackerel Sashimi' is an exquisite dish that locks in the fish's umami. The harmony between the aromatic skin and the moist flesh is superb, available from ¥880. Another favorite among our regulars is the 'Fluffy Dashimaki Tamago' (Japanese rolled omelet). Each one is carefully cooked to order, so you can enjoy it piping hot with a gentle dashi aroma. This 'Dashimaki Tamago' is served for ¥660, and one customer even remarked that you can't find this level of fluffiness at other izakayas. Furthermore, our 'Salt-Seared Yellowtail Tataki' (Buri Shio Tataki), where fatty yellowtail is seared on the surface to seal in its flavor, is available from ¥980. We recommend enjoying it with our special ponzu sauce. Our seasonal 'Shirasu (Whitebait) Dishes' can also be enjoyed from ¥550, making you want to visit again and again.

  1. Seared Spanish Mackerel Sashimi: A delightful contrast between the aromatic skin and the meltingly tender flesh.
  2. Fluffy Dashimaki Tamago: The warmth of a freshly made dish with a gentle dashi flavor.
  3. Salt-Seared Yellowtail Tataki: A dish concentrating the rich umami of fatty yellowtail.
  4. Seasonal Shirasu Dishes: A variety of creative whitebait dishes that change with the seasons.

Through a wide range of seafood dishes, from classic to creative, we always serve our food in its best condition so you can experience the seasons of Japan and the bounty of the sea.

A Lively Space for a Deeper, More Enjoyable Time

Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu's appeal extends beyond its delicious food to its vibrant atmosphere. At the counter seats surrounding the open kitchen, you can watch the chefs' skilled movements up close and enjoy the process of your meal being prepared. The space, filled with the energetic voices of the staff and the cheerful laughter of customers, creates an exciting atmosphere like an adult's secret hideout.

A Versatile Restaurant Suited for Various Occasions

The liveliness of our restaurant is not just noise; it's a pleasant energy that enriches your dining experience. It's the perfect spot for any occasion, whether you want to enjoy delicious fish and local Shiga sake on your own, chat with friends or colleagues in a small group, or have a large party with coworkers.

  • For solo diners: Enjoy a luxurious time at the counter while chatting with the chefs.
  • For small groups: Gather with close friends and have a great time over delicious food.
  • For parties: We offer party courses with all-you-can-drink options starting from ¥4,000, perfect for large gatherings.

On weekends, daytime drinking is available from 1:00 PM, allowing you the small luxury of enjoying fresh seafood and local sake from the afternoon. Daytime drinking in a more open atmosphere offers a special experience, different from a weekday evening.

Savor Your Meal More Deeply with Local Shiga Sake

A good drink is essential to complement seafood dishes. At Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu, we have a wide selection of local sake carefully chosen from breweries in Shiga Prefecture. Our selection of Shiga sake, enjoyable from ¥600, also includes seasonal limited editions. Comparing different local sakes with your meal and discovering their depth is one of the ways to enjoy our restaurant.

A vibrant space, delicious food, and wonderful drinks. And most importantly, the smiles on our customers' faces as they exclaim Delicious! All these elements come together to create unforgettable memories. We hope your time with us provides you with energy for tomorrow.

Hospitality that Makes Customers Want to Come Back

We don't just serve food; we cherish the spirit of hospitality to ensure every single customer is truly satisfied. Our greatest joy is when a customer leaves thinking, I want to come back again. We have received feedback like, The staff was very energetic, and their attentiveness was great, clearing plates as soon as I was finished. We never forget the small details, not only when serving food, but in making sure our customers have a comfortable time.

Cheerful Service and Meticulous Care Create a Comfortable Atmosphere

Our staff is always bright and energetic, and we value communication with our customers. From the moment you are seated until you leave, we provide heartfelt service to ensure you have a pleasant time. If you need anything, from ordering food and drinks to any other concerns, please do not hesitate to let us know. We will respond promptly and courteously.

For instance, even with something as simple as clearing plates, we pay close attention to our surroundings to avoid interrupting conversations and to keep the table clean. We believe that these subtle, unseen considerations contribute to a comfortable atmosphere for our customers.

Ensuring a Smooth Experience from Arrival to Departure

We make various efforts to ensure that your entire time at our restaurant is a special one.

  • Smooth entry: We accept reservations, so we can guide you to your seat without worry even during busy times.
  • Variety of payment methods: We accept various credit cards, e-money, and QR code payments for a smooth checkout.
  • A warm farewell: We see our customers off with a feeling of gratitude until the very end.

To ensure our customers can enjoy their time here to the fullest, our entire staff will continue to work together to provide the best hospitality. Your smiles are our greatest motivation.

Enjoy a Blissful Seafood Experience at Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu

Within walking distance of JR Kusatsu Station, Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu is a seafood izakaya that combines fresh, port-direct seafood, exquisite dishes prepared by skilled chefs, and a spirit of vibrant hospitality. We are committed to using the finest ingredients, providing detailed information, and fostering warm communication so that every customer can enjoy the pleasure of dining with peace of mind.

From our luxurious sashimi platter featuring seasonal fish to our aromatic seared Spanish mackerel and fluffy dashimaki tamago, we offer a host of unique dishes. Paired with local Shiga sake, we promise you the best time, whether you are dining alone, catching up with loved ones, or celebrating at a large party.

Please come and visit Sakaba Stand Uomaru Kusatsu. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you.

For inquiries and reservations, please call 077-567-7771. We also update our Instagram, so please check it out.

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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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