Hamayama

Open the menu at Hamada-yama's Hamayama, and the depth of its seafood offerings immediately catches the eye. The raw fish selection features live red sea bream, wild yellowtail (buri), amberjack (kanpachi), and horse mackerel, alongside assorted sashimi platters sized to suit party size. The kitchen treats its catch with equal care over heat: wild yellowtail or red sea bream collar grilled over open flame, deep-fried striped jack or amberjack, and light seafood tempura give guests the flexibility to tailor the meal to whatever drink they happen to be nursing.

Beyond the catch of the day, venison gyoza adds an intriguing wild-game note rarely found on standard izakaya menus. Time flows easily over small plates paired with beer, wine, or cocktails, with familiar staples like chicken thigh tatsuta-age, slow-simmered beef or pork tripe (motsu nikomi), spiced french fries, and soy-simmered green chili tsukudani rounding out the table. An all-you-can-drink plan is also available, keeping group gatherings relaxed and well paced.

The spacious dining room accommodates both solo drinkers at the counter and lively gatherings across the tables. Sets of board games and playing cards are available to pass the time, and children's tableware is provided so families can dine comfortably. It is a welcoming, unpretentious neighbourhood stop for whenever the evening calls for seasonal fish and a quiet drink.