Small neighborhood Izakaya run by a lovely couple and their dog. Dog friendly. Small and cozy with limited seating so I suggest reservations. Incredible selection of Sake. Excellent smoked Saba that they smoke themselves. Sausage harumaki is a favorite of everyone I bring there. Fried chicken very lightly battered and fried is succulent and juicy and not overly fried. I have been coming here for years and it’s one of my favorites. The owner also makes an amazing lasagna. It’s not on the menu and she doesn’t make it often but you should try if they have it!

+3

In the Kitasando area, I found a wonderful place where I could truly unwind. The interior is sophisticated and retro-modern, with a wall covered in chalkboard menus and a white-tiled counter, yet somehow it feels as reassuring as my parents’ home. The lighting gently illuminating your hands is also beautifully arranged, drawing you further into the dining experience. Every dish is carefully prepared, and the crunchy daikon kimchi and rich, fatty 「かつおはらすやき」 were especially outstanding. There is also a wide selection of sake, and I found myself reaching for another cup before I knew it. Pets are apparently welcome too, and the customers with their dogs looked like they were having a lovely time, filling the whole space with a happy atmosphere. This exceptional place combines delicious food with a stylish, comfortable setting that makes you want to keep coming back.

+3

まつ家 is such a relaxing, homey place It was my first visit, but it’s a lovely restaurant that makes you feel at ease Dogs are welcome 🆗 and there were lots of them that day, which was so soothing I also got to have tekone-zushi, which I’d thought might only be available at lunchtime? The smoked mackerel was especially delicious!

+1

This area still retains a faint trace of old Tokyo. It has an atmosphere that feels somehow warm. The restaurant is on the corner of an intersection, and curiously, on sunny days it catches the sunlight so well that it seems to shine brighter than its surroundings. It’s run by two people, perhaps a married couple? I visited for lunch, and words really aren’t needed: it’s delicious. The seasoning of the vinegared rice is as good as you’d expect. It’s the kind of place I hope stays around forever. Next time, then, I’ll come in the evening.

+1

A lovely drinking spot on the corner of an intersection near Meiji-dori: head straight from Sendagaya Station, past the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, across Hatomori Shrine, and straight down the hill. At lunchtime, it serves tekone-zushi, which is similar to tekkadon. Next door is a characterful old coffee shop, and next to that is せんだが家, which serves delicious mazesoba. I go there for drinks in the evening. Inside, there is counter seating and a few tables. Both the drinks and the couple who run the place create a very pleasant atmosphere. The tekone-zushi is like a marinated tuna rice bowl, and it’s delicious just as it is.

+1