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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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A Heartwarming Night in Kusatsu with Steamed Dishes! Uomaru Experience Guide

An Invitation to Kusatsu's Evenings: Heartwarming Steamed Dishes that Brighten Your Night

Are you looking for a heartwarming experience in Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, one that helps you forget the daily hustle and bustle? Whether it's a drink after work, a chat with friends, or a special moment with loved ones, Sakaba Stand Uomaru is the place that will meet your expectations. We proudly offer the profoundly flavorful and body-friendly Kusatsu Seiro Mushi (steamed dishes). As steam rises from the steamer, the exquisite dishes, with the original umami of their ingredients tightly condensed, will surely relax your mind and create an unforgettable evening. In this column, we will thoroughly introduce the unique appeal of Sakaba Stand Uomaru's steamed dishes, as well as various ways for different customers to enjoy them. Come, let us guide you into the world of Seiro Mushi that richly colors Kusatsu's nights.

For Those Who Want to Find a Truly Satisfying Restaurant in Kusatsu Tonight

While the abundance of restaurants around Kusatsu Station offers many choices, some of you might be wondering, Which one should I choose?, Will I find truly delicious food?, Is there a place where I can easily go alone?, or I want a convenient izakaya to drop by after work. Perhaps you are particularly keen to enjoy delicious food while staying health-conscious, or to savor memorable dishes that are a little different from your usual fare. We also hear from those who love sake and want to enjoy food pairings but don't know which restaurant is best. Sakaba Stand Uomaru welcomes you to Kusatsu to respond to these desires to know and be helped. Our Kusatsu Seiro Mushi (steamed dishes) is precisely the ideal choice to resolve all these concerns at once.

The Secret to the Profound Flavors Woven by Kusatsu Seiro Mushi

Steamed Dishes Starring Carefully Selected Ingredients

The Kusatsu Seiro Mushi we offer places the utmost importance on the freshness and quality of its ingredients. We generously use fresh seasonal vegetables sourced from contract farmers, along with carefully selected meats and seafood. Steaming maximizes the natural sweetness and umami of the ingredients themselves, a difference you'll clearly taste with just one bite. By valuing the inherent flavors of the ingredients without relying on chemical seasonings, we achieve a gentle taste that delights both mind and body. Please also pay attention to our seasonally changing ingredients. We constantly innovate our menu to ensure you can fully enjoy the blessings of each season.

  • Colorful Seasonal Vegetable Seiro Mushi: Featuring fresh seasonal vegetables. The natural sweetness of the ingredients truly stands out.
  • Premium Pork Belly and Mushroom Seiro Mushi: An exquisite combination of pork belly, known for its sweet fat, and richly aromatic mushrooms.
  • Seafood and Vegetable Seiro Mushi: The rich umami of fresh seafood permeates the vegetables, creating a deeply flavorful taste.

A Healthy Yet Deeply Satisfying Cooking Method

Seiro Mushi is an incredibly healthy cooking method as it involves steaming without oil. However, its flavor is far from lacking. In fact, as excess oil drips away and the ingredients' umami becomes concentrated, the true essence of the ingredients is directly conveyed. The plump, steamed meat and fish, and vegetables that retain their crisp texture, will offer a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. It's also gentle on digestion and light on the stomach, making it perfect for late-night meals or when you want to avoid feeling heavy the next day. We highly recommend this Kusatsu Seiro Mushi to those who wish to savor delicious food to their heart's content while also being mindful of their health.

Enjoyable Solo or with Friends: Diverse Ways to Experience Sakaba Stand Uomaru

Counter Seating to Fully Enjoy Solo Drinking in Kusatsu

Sakaba Stand Uomaru is also ideal for those who want to enjoy solo drinking in Kusatsu. Our lively yet relaxed counter seating provides a space where you can feel at ease even when dining alone. Savor recommended sake at your leisure while watching the cooking unfold right before your eyes. Casual conversations with our staff are also one of the great pleasures of solo drinking. Of course, Kusatsu Seiro Mushi can be ordered for a single person, so please enjoy it to your heart's content whenever you like. Drop by casually and unwind from the day's fatigue with delicious food and drinks. Please indulge in such a luxurious time at our establishment.

We recommend the following ways to enjoy our counter seating:

  • Sample seasonal limited edition sake in small quantities.
  • Ask the chef directly for recommended dishes.
  • Enjoy your personal time with a comfortable distance from other customers.

A Lively Space Thriving as a Kusatsu Izakaya

Groups are also very welcome. Sakaba Stand Uomaru is the perfect place when you want to have a lively time with friends as a Kusatsu Izakaya. At our table seats, joyful conversations will flow around the steamed dishes. Sharing warm seiro mushi with everyone while comparing various types of sake is also a great idea. Whether it's a banquet with close friends, a company gathering with colleagues, or a family meal, we warmly welcome you to any occasion. Please enjoy a special time in a vibrant atmosphere that also evokes a sense of nostalgia.

When visiting as a group, please also take advantage of the following:

  • Order various types of seiro mushi and share them to enjoy a diverse range of flavors.
  • Discover your favorite brands with a sake tasting set.
  • Enjoy hassle-free planning for organizers with our seasonal banquet courses.

The Perfect Pairing with Steamed Dishes: Encountering Kusatsu Sake

Sake Selected by Knowledgeable Staff

Enhancing the appeal of Kusatsu Seiro Mushi are our carefully selected sakes. Sakaba Stand Uomaru offers a rich variety of brands sourced from all over Japan, and our knowledgeable staff will courteously suggest a bottle that matches your preferences. The harmony woven between the delicate flavors of the steamed dishes and the profound aroma of sake is truly a blissful experience. From dry to sweet, from Junmai-shu to Daiginjo, please find your unique Kusatsu Sake from our extensive lineup.

  • Junmai Ginjo Sake: A crisp taste that doesn't overpower the natural flavors of seiro mushi ingredients.
  • Tokubetsu Junmai Sake: Rich in umami and body, it pairs wonderfully with meat seiro mushi.
  • Seasonal Limited Edition Sake: Discover new favorites with seasonal sake that can only be enjoyed during that time of year.

Discover New Flavors with Seasonal Limited Edition Sake

We also offer seasonal limited edition sakes. We carefully select and provide the most delicious sake for each season, such as new sake in winter and summer sake in summer. Savoring sake while feeling the change of seasons alongside our steamed dishes is another unique charm of Sakaba Stand Uomaru. Please ask our staff for their recommendations on seasonal limited edition sake. Encounters with new sakes will surely enrich your dining experience.

Right by Kusatsu Station! Sakaba Stand Uomaru with Excellent Access

Convenience as an Izakaya Near Kusatsu Station

Sakaba Stand Uomaru boasts an excellent location, within walking distance from JR Kusatsu Station. For those looking for an izakaya near Kusatsu Station, being able to easily drop by after work or shopping is a significant advantage. You can enjoy food and drinks to your heart's content without worrying about train schedules. It's also convenient for meeting up and serves as an ideal gathering spot. Its excellent accessibility is one of the reasons why many choose our establishment.

Exquisite Dishes to Enjoy with Seiro Mushi

Of course, in addition to Kusatsu Seiro Mushi, we offer a variety of exquisite dishes that pair wonderfully with sake. For example, our proud specialties include sashimi made with fresh seafood and simmered dishes that have been slow-cooked to perfection, all utilizing the natural flavors of their ingredients. You can enjoy a healthy yet deeply satisfying and well-balanced meal with our steamed dishes. Our cuisine is designed to complement sake, so please try various combinations. You're sure to find a new favorite dish.

First-Time Visitors Welcome! A Guide to Maximizing Your Uomaru Experience

For those visiting Sakaba Stand Uomaru for the first time, here are some tips to ensure you can relax and enjoy your visit to the fullest.

  1. First, try Kusatsu Seiro Mushi: This is our signature dish and an experience you won't find anywhere else. Start with our classic vegetables or pork belly.
  2. Consult our staff about sake: Feel free to ask our staff about your preferred taste or pairings with steamed dishes. They will surely suggest the best combination.
  3. For solo drinking, head to the counter: If you wish to relax and unwind without reservation, our counter seats are recommended. You can also enjoy conversations with our staff.
  4. Advance reservations recommended for banquets: For group visits, especially on weekends when we get busy, we recommend making a phone reservation in advance for smoother service.
  5. Check out our seasonal limited menu: We offer special seasonal ingredients and sake available only during certain times. Be sure to check it out when you visit.
  6. Access from Kusatsu Station on foot: Leveraging our location as an izakaya near Kusatsu Station, access from the station is extremely convenient. For those arriving by car, nearby coin parking is available.

Make Your Kusatsu Night Special at Sakaba Stand Uomaru!

How was it? We've introduced the culinary charms and diverse ways to enjoy dining at Sakaba Stand Uomaru, centered around Kusatsu Seiro Mushi. Whether you wish to savor delicious food to your heart's content while minding your health, spend quiet time alone, chat lively with friends, or encounter the finest Kusatsu Sake, our establishment can fulfill all your desires. With excellent access from Kusatsu Station, we promise to be the best Kusatsu Izakaya for everyone. Please try our proud Kusatsu Seiro Mushi once. We offer a special time where your mind and body will be satisfied, enveloped in warm steam. 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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