Sumiyoshi

A short step away from the bustle of Nishi-Shinjuku's main thoroughfares, Uosashimiya Sumiyoshi is a dependable seafood izakaya when the evening calls for hearty fish dishes and good drinks. A natural starting point is the daily sashimi platter, composed from fish delivered fresh each morning. The cleanly sliced pieces show off crisp textures and the natural sweetness of rich fish oils. Diners can also order an oyster tasting set that brings together bivalves from Hokkaido, Iwate, and Miyagi on a single plate, offering a direct taste of how different ocean currents shape each shell's character.

Beyond raw offerings, the kitchen turns out a varied spread of cooked and grilled seafood. A large fish collar (kama) fried crisp on the outside and skewers of tuna alternating with sweet leeks (maguro negima) make sturdy accompaniments for a drink. In between seafood courses, dishes like chicken thigh grilled with spicy yuzu kosho or sizzling teppan plates provide a welcome shift in flavour across the table.

The drinks list supports the food with sakes such as Mutsu Hassen, Shimeharitsuru, and Denshu, alongside highballs and shochu. Outfitted in warm wood tones, the interior features counter seating and booth tables, suiting both a solitary cup at the end of the day and lively gatherings sharing platters. A comforting bowl of crab zosui rice porridge, toasted onigiri, or ochazuke rounds off the meal on a satisfying note.