This place is a local institution. In operation for 52 years this one man izakaya serves up vintage Showa era izakaya dishes with an emphasis on grilling and cheese. Drinks are standard izakaya fare. 5 tables with soft seating. Large windows provide a nice view of the north side of the land Kanda river. Smoking is permitted. Recommended for adventurous fans of Showa era food.

Ordered the menchi-katsu bento. Unexpectedly delicious. Since the menu called it a bento, I worried it might be cold, but both the menchi-katsu and croquette were freshly fried and crispy. The rice was warm too, and the variety of side dishes was fun. That alone was quite satisfying, but it even came with miso soup, making me wonder if they were really giving me all this. The atmosphere is like an old-fashioned coffee shop, and the customers tend to be older. If you're used to the polished service of family restaurants and other places in different price ranges, some things might annoy you. Living up to the name Sky Room, you can see Juntendo University and other buildings from a slightly elevated position. I thought tea after the meal for about an extra 130円 might be nice, but with the total nearing 1000円, I decided I probably wouldn't pay that. It might be worth stopping by when you want a little breather or to remember the boxed lunches you ate as a student. I'd like to go again.

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Perhaps you could call it a tucked-away coffee shop where you can drink alcohol. I remember it being around for quite a long time. I always stop by for a second round, just a highball and some pizza to nibble on.

At first the food and drinks were good and I was drinking leisurely, then suddenly a group that looked like a university seminar drinking party came stomping in and the whole place became chaotic. I can't understand the owner trying to squeeze in that many people when there were already 2 groups of customers. Every time the students moved around they bumped into people over and over, and they were so loud I couldn't keep drinking. I canceled my order and went to pay so I could leave, and they even tried charging me for the canceled items. I'm never going back.

Its intimidating exterior sets it apart from other places. Work up the courage to enter and you'll find a stylish interior with a great view—but this is Ochanomizu. It's lively with office workers and students, with a homey atmosphere. Less a hidden retreat, perhaps more a hidden home.