Beyond Small Plates, Homestyle Dishes Shine

The peculiar charm of Nakameguro lies in its in-between nature—neither fully urban nor suburban, nor strictly local. It possesses an indefinable sense of comfort that draws you in.

It's a midpoint between the bustle of the city center and the casualness of a local neighborhood. While many popular eateries are scattered throughout, they often lack a certain tranquility (or, put another way, they're very lively). I'd felt there weren't many places truly suited for relaxed conversation over food and drinks.

It was then that a friend, suggesting I knew of a good place, invited me to a newly opened Japanese restaurant called "Sora." Tucked away one street behind the Yamate Dori, the restaurant sits on a quiet backstreet. Its location is truly that of a hidden gem.

"Ah, isn't this where the Japanese restaurant 'Gantan' used to be!" Old memories resurfaced.

The interior hasn't changed drastically, but it somehow feels more serene. The name of the restaurant is elegantly written on the prominent lantern. I learned it was the work of the notable female calligrapher Tomoko Kawawo. Truly magnificent!

Upon entering, a large counter immediately catches the eye. One side features a raised seating area partitioned by shoji screens, designed for both private dining and gatherings. "Well then, shall we two men enjoy ourselves leisurely at the counter?"

Page02.Culinary Techniques from High-End Restaurants, Applied Casually

Culinary Techniques from High-End Restaurants, Applied Casually

The chef, Takashi Ogawa, skillfully prepares dishes right before your eyes. He is a seasoned professional with extensive training at traditional Japanese ryotei.

"We want our guests to enjoy delicious food in a relaxed setting," he says. Even the initial appetizer is quite elaborate. Yet, looking at the menu, you'll find dishes like ginger pork, rolled omelets, and potato salad—items you might find in a casual set meal.

However, as the menu suggests, all ingredients are personally selected by the chef.

"I'm particularly confident in our vegetables," he states. Indeed, the menu features intensely flavored Edo vegetables grown using pyrolitic farming, said to have been supplied to the Shogun's family during the Edo period. Beyond that, you can enjoy dishes that highlight the natural flavors of ingredients, such as aged meats and fresh, wild-caught fish prepared by professionals.

Complementing these are carefully selected regional sakes and shochus from across Japan, along with house-made fruit liquors, making it an ideal place to enjoy drinks with small plates.

The ability to enjoy both authentic cuisine and more casual, set-meal-style dishes (using premium ingredients, of course) perfectly embodies Nakameguro's comfortable, in-between-city vibe. And, naturally, the prices are entirely reasonable.

It's a wonderful place I've discovered.

With whom shall I return next time? I pondered, glancing sideways at my companion, as the evening drew to a close.