Tanuki

Skewered offal sizzles over steady heat, sending savory smoke drifting toward the counter. Located in the residential streets of Sugamo 5-chome, Tanuki is an approachable neighbourhood izakaya tailored for a casual drink over affordable skewers and rotating daily small plates. The shop curtain parts when doors open at 16:30 in the evening, promptly drawing solo drinkers and neighborhood regulars finishing their workday.

The essential starting point is the yakiton, grilled meticulously to order one skewer at a time. Cuts such as tongue, liver, and heart contrast with tender shiro glazed in savory sauce, offering varied textures that pair naturally with a drink. Diners unsure of where to start often opt for the salted 4-skewer chef's selection. Beyond grilled items, the kitchen is recognized for simmered specialties, from a light dashi-infused motsu nikomi to a spicy simmered offal.

Beyond the skewers, the chalkboard menu highlights an appealing lineup of seafood and vegetable dishes based on the day's market haul. Offerings range from horse mackerel sashimi or tataki to cuts of bonito and salmon, balanced by refreshing starters like a mixed vegetable marinade. With a mug of Hoppy, draft beer, or unpasteurized chilled sake in hand, guests can readily assemble an evening spread of unpretentious plates.