Kujira

Kujira’s menu ranges from its namesake whale dishes to seafood sashimi and sushi. Whale meat, now an uncommon sight at izakaya, appears in several forms: signature whale sashimi, tender and savoury whale bacon, and whale tatsuta-age, marinated and fried until soft. Choose the fish for an assorted sashimi platter of 5 kinds, or opt for an assortment featuring several cuts of whale. Soy sauce and salt are provided at the table, so you can vary the seasoning as you eat.

For a more substantial meal, there are sushi dishes such as a selection of tuna nigiri and seared vinegared mackerel pressed sushi. The drinks menu also pairs well with more distinctive snacks, including spicy grilled meat and potato salad with fresh seaweed and cream cheese. Japanese sake comes from across the country: options include the crisp, dry Dokara from Akita, Miinokotobuki from Fukuoka and fragrant Zaku from Mie. Order a glass, a one-go serving or a tokkuri flask, depending on how much you would like.

Downstairs, the restaurant has both table and tatami seating, making it suitable for group gatherings as well as a casual solo stop. It opens daily at 13, so it is a convenient setting for an early toast or an unhurried daytime drink. To round off the meal, choose a Japanese-style pancake with matcha ice cream or vanilla ice cream with chocolate warabi mochi for a sweet finish.