Japanese Sake Restaurants(21)
COURSE MENUIbushigin Kazuya
Choose from an expansive 120 bottle sake collection with varieties from every prefecture of Japan at this Kyoto izakaya in the lively Nakagyo district. Savor each cup of sake alongside an assortment of their specialty smoked dishes.
COURSE MENUShabushabu Tonton Shinsaibashi
Experience the delightful taste of Miyazaki beef and Kishu Umebuta premium pork, cooked in the shabu-shabu hotpot style. Enjoy a lively and delicious izakaya dining experience in Shinsaibashi.
COURSE MENUMarudori Ruisuke
Marudori Ruisuke is named for its signature dish, a whole Daisen chicken deep-fried after 11 hours of marinating in the house’s special sauce. Friendly staff and a lively atmosphere draw a large crowd of regulars.
SEAT RESERVATIONWasshoi Dokoro Waku Betsu Atsurae
A traditional restaurant in an urban hotspot, Wasshoi Dokoro Waku Betsu Atsurae remains true to the legacy of Japanese cuisine while experimenting with ingredients and flavors to invigorate modern appetites.
COURSE MENUGinza Hakobune Daiginjyo SHIZUKU
The reputation of this Ginza venue primarily rests on its impressive 500-plus sake library, enhanced by the allure of a private dining experience and teamed with Hokuriku-Shinetsu-inspired seasonal kaiseki that stands on its own merits.
COURSE MENUSUSHI RYUDUKI
An intimate 12-seat omakase bar where champagne reigns with sushi — park yourself at the hinoki cypress counter for a multicourse meal featuring day-fresh fish from the market.
COURSE MENUOsakana Sohonke Tsukijima
Flame-kissed fish, straw-glled bonito and a fantastic selection of local sake are the three things Osakana Sohonke Tsukijima swears by to keep the evening vibrant and unforgettable.
SEAT RESERVATIONBenikurage
The husband-and-wife duo behind this izakaya visited breweries across Japan to find the perfect sake curration — food is geared around its compatibility, and soft drink, wine or whiskey is offered.
SEAT RESERVATIONHachidori
Impressive lineup of sake from small breweries, paired with dishes featuring Shonai-grown vegetables, makes this couple-run izakaya a darling locale in Osaka.
SEAT RESERVATIONEitaroya
In this kappo izakaya, savor Kyoto-style drinking snacks and traditional sake under the convivial service of the owner.
SEAT RESERVATIONWashoku Haru
The creative license applied to traditional Japanese cuisine elevates this Kyoto gastropub’s a la carte menu to Michelin status.
SEAT RESERVATIONShunsai Chuka Bar Mitsukan
Just about the coolest way to taste Nara-made Sichuan fares in a bright-lit bar with a Chinese resto fit-out, there’s a reason why this award-winning izakaya earns its Michelin status.
SEAT RESERVATIONGinza Nominokoji Yamagishi
Operated by a venerable Kyoto kappo venue, this upscale Izakaya in Ginza serves a Michelin-selected menu in an elegant setting late into the night.
SEAT RESERVATIONKabukizaura Masashi
A nondescript grey facade behind the KabukizaTheater in Ginza conceals a vibrant tapestry of traditional Japanese dishes and carefully selected sake.
SEAT RESERVATIONMuromachi Kaji
Muromachi Kaji has a winning way with Kyoto-style kaiseki, which pairs well with its impressive selection of sake
SEAT RESERVATIONNihonshu Hotaru
A sake microbrewery and gastropub where you can sample a rare kind of house sake, and a huge range of other bottles.
SEAT RESERVATIONMASU‐KAME
A local izakaya in Shinagawa with some outstanding all-you-can eat and free flow drink deals — eat and drink til you drop!
SEAT RESERVATIONSasagin
This izakaya near Yoyogi Park is the perfect place to learn about Japan’s delicious native alcohols, with fantastic prices all round.
SEAT RESERVATIONShinsuke
A great range of sake and delicious small dishes make this Ueno izakaya one of the best places in the area to sample Japanese pub grub.
SEAT RESERVATIONTorikichi Uokichi
Wallet-friendly, high-quality izakaya dining showing off the best Kyushu has to offer, from land and sea. Enjoy living it up with local sake, local horse meat, and 5-hour stewed chicken, all served in private rooms.
SEAT RESERVATIONSumiyakisosaitoriya Hitomi
This two-story yakitori spot has been recognized as a Michelin Bib Gourmand hotspot for its great charcoal-grilled skewers and charming service led by Chef Hitomi.
Discover the Art of Japanese Sake
If you're a lover of fine beverages and culinary adventures, exploring restaurants that offer Japanese sake is an experience not to be missed. Japanese sake, also known as nihonshu, is a traditional rice wine that offers a wide range of flavors and aromas, much like wine or craft beer. Made from rice, water, yeast, and koji mold, sake has been brewed for centuries and plays an important role in Japanese culture and dining. Each sake carries its own unique characteristics influenced by its region of origin, the type of rice used, and the brewing process. Whether you're a seasoned sake enthusiast or new to this alluring drink, there's always something new to discover in the world of sake.
Perfect Pairings: Sake and Cuisine
One of the most delightful aspects of visiting sake-focused restaurants is the opportunity to enjoy this exquisite beverage alongside traditional Japanese cuisine. Sake's versatility makes it a perfect pairing for a variety of dishes – from fresh sashimi and sushi to hearty ramen and grilled yakitori. Many restaurants take pride in crafting their menus to complement their sake offerings, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. The subtle sweetness and umami-rich flavors of sake enhance the taste of the dishes, creating a harmonious balance. In some establishments, knowledgeable staff or sake sommeliers are on hand to offer recommendations, guiding you through their extensive selections to find the perfect match for your meal.
Unique Ambiance and Expert Guidance
When dining at a restaurant specializing in Japanese sake, you can expect an ambiance that reflects the elegance and tradition of this cherished drink. Many establishments feature interior designs inspired by Japanese aesthetics, offering a tranquil and immersive atmosphere. From table settings to background music, every element is thoughtfully curated to elevate your overall experience. In addition to the inviting surroundings, expert guidance is another highlight of dining at these restaurants. Staff members typically have a deep understanding of the sake varieties on offer and can introduce you to rare or seasonal selections. Their insights and passion for sake enhance your appreciation and understanding of this beloved beverage, making your visit not just a meal, but an educational journey into the heart of Japanese culture.