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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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Indulge Your Senses: A Luxurious Sake Experience in Kusatsu

Are you looking for a heartwarming experience in Kusatsu City, Shiga? Our Japanese izakaya is the perfect place to indulge in carefully selected Kusatsu sake and seasonal Kusatsu seafood. Whether you're a tourist visiting Kusatsu, a local in search of a delicious meal, or someone looking to enjoy some day drinking near Kusatsu Station, we'll introduce you to the charms of our establishment and share tips for a truly memorable dining experience.

Can I truly find delicious sake and fresh seafood in Kusatsu? Is there a place where I can relax and enjoy a meal with sake during the day? Do you offer special courses or signature dishes for celebratory occasions? This article will answer these questions and meet the expectations of everyone considering a visit to our restaurant. We invite you to use it as your guide to discovering an exceptional dining experience.

An Invitation to the Profound World of Kusatsu Sake

One of our greatest prides is our extensive lineup of Kusatsu sake, carefully selected from across the nation. These premium sakes, sourced directly from breweries throughout Japan, reflect the changing seasons and are chosen to perfectly complement each of our dishes.

To help you find the perfect glass to suit your personal taste and mood, our knowledgeable staff is here to carefully listen to your preferences. For those new to sake, we can suggest easy-to-drink, fruity varieties, while for connoisseurs, we offer rare, limited-edition bottles and unique selections.

How to Enjoy Choosing Your Sake

  • Seasonal Limited-Edition Sake: We offer special sakes available only at certain times of the year, such as shinshu (new sake) in spring, natsuzake (summer sake) in summer, hiyaoroshi (autumn sake) in fall, and shiboritate (freshly pressed sake) in winter. We highly recommend pairing them with seasonal ingredients.
  • Local Sake from Shiga: We also carry an extensive selection of jizake (local sake) from Shiga Prefecture, born from the terroir of Kusatsu. Savor the unique flavors of the region and experience the bounty of the local land.
  • Pairing with Cuisine: We can suggest pairings that elevate your meal, such as a crisp, dry Junmai Ginjo with sashimi, a mellow Junmai with our steamed dishes, or a rich Tokubetsu Junmai to accompany our flavorful Salt-Seared Bonito in Kusatsu.

The Best of the Season's Bounty: The True Pleasure of Kusatsu Seafood

When you hear Kusatsu seafood, we believe you expect exceptional freshness and variety. At our restaurant, an expert purveyor carefully selects and sources the freshest fish and shellfish, delivered directly from the market each morning. To bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients, we prepare each dish with care, using simple yet refined cooking techniques that showcase our chefs' skill.

Our seasonal selection of fish and shellfish changes throughout the year, allowing you to savor the unique flavors at their peak. Experience the rich bounty of the ocean with our Kusatsu seafood.

Our Exquisite Salt-Seared Bonito in Kusatsu

Among our many seafood dishes, our signature Salt-Seared Bonito in Kusatsu is a particular favorite. We source fresh bonito directly from Kochi Prefecture, which our skilled chefs then expertly sear over a roaring straw fire. This technique imparts a unique, smoky aroma and creates a perfect texture—savory and crisp on the outside, tender and moist on the inside.

Served simply with our special salt and condiments, the deep, natural flavor of the bonito shines through. This dish pairs exceptionally well with a flavorful Kusatsu sake, creating a sublime combination where each enhances the other.

  • Today's Assorted Sashimi: A beautifully arranged platter featuring a colorful selection of the freshest fish available that day. It's a feast for the eyes and a delightful way to sample various types of seafood.
  • Seasonal Grilled or Simmered Fish: We prepare the catch of the season using methods that best highlight its flavor. Whether it's a simple grilled fish that lets the ingredients shine or a deeply flavorful simmered dish, both pair perfectly with rice and Kusatsu sake.

A New Option for Day Drinking at Kusatsu Station: A Moment of Luxury

For those who found us while searching for day drinking at Kusatsu Station, we offer a unique and luxurious way to spend your afternoon. Enjoy delicious food and Kusatsu sake to your heart's content in a calm, relaxed atmosphere, a world away from the evening rush.

Whether it's a holiday afternoon, an early rendezvous, or simply a treat for yourself, why not enjoy a special day drinking experience? Relax in our sunlit space and feel time slow down.

Perfect Menu for Day Drinking

  • Light Appetizer Set: A curated set of small, varied appetizers perfect for daytime enjoyment. It features items like small vegetable dishes and light seafood bites, all designed to pair beautifully with sake or beer.
  • Seasonal Small Dishes: We offer a variety of colorful and visually appealing small dishes that change with the seasons. Recommended for those who wish to sample a little bit of everything.
  • Mini Seafood Donburi: A luxurious lunch-exclusive item that allows you to casually enjoy our fresh Kusatsu seafood. It's perfect for those who want to savor both a rice dish and sake.

Our restaurant is suitable for various occasions, including lunch meetings or casual get-togethers with friends. Come and experience the pleasure of indulging in delicious food and drinks during the day in our welcoming space.

A Dish for Body and Soul: The Charm of Kusatsu Seiro-Mushi (Steamed Dishes)

For our health-conscious guests and those who appreciate the natural flavor of ingredients, we highly recommend our Kusatsu Seiro-Mushi (dishes steamed in bamboo baskets). Steaming is a healthy cooking method that uses no oil, locking in the ingredients' umami and nutrients while ensuring a perfectly moist and tender result.

As the steam rises from the bamboo basket, the rich aroma of the ingredients fills the air, creating a sensory experience. We invite you to savor our special Kusatsu seiro-mushi, a dish you won't find anywhere else.

Savoring Seasonal Bounties with Seiro-Mushi

  • Steamed Seasonal Vegetables: We use a generous amount of carefully selected vegetables at the peak of their season. Enjoy their natural sweetness and crisp texture. Serve with our special ponzu or sesame dipping sauce.
  • Steamed Seafood: Fresh seafood and vegetables are steamed together, capturing the full umami of the ocean's bounty. This luxurious dish features tender, succulent seafood and concentrated flavors. It pairs exceptionally well with Kusatsu sake.
  • Steamed Pork and Vegetables: The sweetness of select pork and the crispness of fresh vegetables create an exquisite harmony. This dish is light yet satisfyingly rich, offering a hearty and flavorful experience.

Warming you from the inside out, our Kusatsu Seiro-Mushi satisfies both body and soul. It can be enjoyed year-round, as a comforting dish in the cold months and a light, refreshing meal in the warmer seasons.

Perfect for Large Groups! The Ultimate Banquet with Our Kusatsu All-You-Can-Drink Courses

Our Kusatsu All-You-Can-Drink Courses are extremely popular for a wide range of occasions, including year-end parties, New Year's gatherings, farewell parties, family celebrations, and get-togethers with friends.

We offer several course options so you can enjoy our signature dishes and extensive drink menu to your heart's content. Event organizers can relax; we will help you host the perfect banquet that will leave everyone smiling.

How to Choose Your All-You-Can-Drink Course

  1. Choose by Budget: We offer several courses at different price points, allowing you to select one that fits your budget and desired duration. The number of dishes and variety of drinks vary by course.
  2. Choose by Cuisine: Select a course based on its culinary focus. Options include a luxurious course centered on seasonal Kusatsu seafood, one featuring our signature Salt-Seared Bonito in Kusatsu, or a course allowing you to leisurely enjoy our Kusatsu Seiro-Mushi.
  3. Choose by Drink Selection: Tailor your experience to your drink preferences. We have courses designed for those who want to explore our wide selection of Kusatsu sake, as well as courses with a comprehensive menu including beer, sours, and wine.

Every course is filled with our dedication to quality, and we are confident you will be satisfied. We can flexibly accommodate your group size and requests, so please don't hesitate to consult with us.

Practical Steps to Fully Enjoy Your Special Time at Our Restaurant

To make the most of our Kusatsu sake, Kusatsu seafood, and various courses, we suggest the following steps.

  1. Decide on Your Visit Date and Time: We tend to be busy, especially on weekends, holidays, and event days, so we highly recommend making a reservation in advance. You can book smoothly by phone or through our website.
  2. Inform Us of Your Party Size and Occasion: Letting us know the purpose of your visit—whether it's for business entertainment, a date, a family dinner, or a large party—allows us to suggest the most suitable seating and courses to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable time.
  3. Ask About Sake and Food: If you're undecided about the menu or curious about a particular Kusatsu sake, please don't hesitate to ask our staff. We are happy to recommend the perfect dish or pairing based on the day's freshest ingredients and your personal preferences.
  4. Check for Seasonal Specials: When you visit, be sure to ask about our limited-time seasonal menu. Special dishes made with seasonal ingredients and limited-edition sakes offer a unique taste experience you won't want to miss.

Conclusion: For the Best Dining Experience in Kusatsu

Our greatest desire is to provide you with the best dining experience here in Kusatsu. The profound world of carefully selected Kusatsu sake, the bounty of fresh Kusatsu seafood delivered daily, the luxurious and relaxing time spent day drinking near Kusatsu Station, the soul-soothing and healthy Kusatsu seiro-mushi, and our all-you-can-drink courses that elevate any banquet—all of these elements exist to create a memorable moment for you.

We strive not only to serve delicious food and drinks but also to create a space where every guest can truly relax and leave with a smile. We invite you to step through our doors. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you.

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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