I feel awful about being shortchanged on the amount of alcohol. I ordered sake and it came in the usual glass-and-masu combination. Normally, for 1 go, they overflow the glass until the masu is full, but they stopped with only 2–3mm in the masu. I ordered another brand, but it was the same. Meanwhile, other tables were served full one-go tokkuri flasks. However, the menu didn't specify the amount per sake, so I asked at checkout and was told “one go”. Was I being taken lightly because I was drinking alone? Usually 2 go gets me pleasantly tipsy, but today I feel completely unsatisfied. I really feel awful. Anyone wanting to enjoy drinking alone should avoid this place.

At the far end of Higashi-Nakano Ginza-dori, 串味. Set meals for lunch. I had ハムカツ定食. The ham was juicy, the coating fried crisp, quite delicious. As a fan of shopping-street izakaya set meals, another addition to my list of hidden gems.

+3

Lunch: “唐揚げ定食680円”. The karaage was so piping hot it might have been the hottest I've ever had, and juicy—I was really surprised. Actually, the dim interior startled me a little, but the spacious seating and large TV let me relax. The assorted skewer set interested me, but I wanted a hearty meal, so karaage was the right choice. Rice refills are available. With miso soup, salad, and a small side dish, I was very satisfied. The staff, who seemed to be a married couple, were courteous and left a good impression. I was also quietly pleased that the tea tasted good. Since an elderly couple runs it together, I'm giving ★5 partly to support them.

The drinks and food are fantastic! The staff had a great vibe too—fantastic! Want to go again

Easy to drop into, with food arriving quickly, so it's ideal for a quick drink. The service is courteous too, making drinking here pleasant. Both the fried and grilled skewers are delicious.