01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Scanning the strips of paper lining the walls and the daily whiteboard specials while deciding on a first drink and bites is part of the easy rhythm at Yamashiro-ya in Sumiyoshi, Koto Ward. Once seated, many regulars begin with the signature tonkara, crisp deep-fried pork morsels packed with savory meat juices that pair naturally with cold beer or a chuhai highball. Pairing that with the daily assortment of 3 simmered vegetables, featuring humble side dishes like simmered daikon with fried tofu or beef with garlic scapes, rounds out the table with the comforting warmth of well-seasoned dashi broth.
A wide seafood selection is another strong suit of this neighborhood tavern. Alongside dependable cuts of chopped tuna sashimi and squid, guests can enjoy fresh, reasonably priced seasonal sashimi such as bonito, wild yellowtail, and scallop. The roster of modest small plates also includes slow-cooked offal nikomi stew, dashi-scented warm tofu, gently toasted silken deep-fried tofu, and savory tuna with natto. To wash it all down, the drinks list offers Kirin Lager and Sapporo Classic bottled beers, oolong and pickled-plum chuhai, and Akita's Takashimizu sake.
Step past the noren curtain to find an L-shaped counter suited to solo dining, with table seating situated further back. Operating on weekdays from 17:00 to 22:00 and closed on Saturdays and Sundays, the tavern accepts cash only. For an unpretentious weekday evening unwind with handmade fare and a quiet drink, it makes a reassuring stop.
