Tsukuba

At Tsukuba in Jujo, the words "hitoshio-yaki" appear prominently at the top of the menu, quietly signalling the care that goes into the kitchen's fish preparation. For this house specialty, fish is lightly salted and rested for twelve hours or more to draw out deep umami before hitting the grill. Diners can enjoy it in various cuts and styles, including barracuda, Spanish mackerel collar, or yellowtail prepared teriyaki-style or marinated in Saikyo miso. It is easy to see why regulars return specifically for the fish.

Beyond the seafood, the menu is packed with drinking snacks that range from comforting izakaya staples to clever small bites. You can reach for slowly simmered motsu stew or braised Pacific cod, or fill up on heartier fare like tofu cutlet topped with savoury miso sauce or pork and kimchi stir-fry. When it is time to wrap up, the choices remain broad, with cold zaru soba, Japanese-style fried noodles, and rice balls on hand.

The owner's playful personality shines through in the names given to the reasonably priced drinks. Whimsical choices like Connoisseur Green Tea High, Dream Oolong High, Onion Chu, and Tokyo Mizuwari spark quiet amusement while you browse the list and order. Nursing a beer or a carafe of dry Kiku-Masamune while chatting with the welcoming master is part of the charm.

The relaxed interior accommodates solo diners at the counter just as easily as visiting groups. Open until 1:00 from Monday through Saturday, it serves as a dependable haven for late dinners and winding down after work.