Reserve

Robata & sake in Ishiyama — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama

SeafoodRobataStraw-grilledBonitoOmi beefSakeLocal sakePrivate hireTerrace seatsBanquets

Our story

Seafood sesame ochazuke — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama Shrimp cream spring rolls — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama Potato salad with salmon roe — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama Fried yuba and whitebait daikon salad — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama

Commitment

1

The size of the bonito

In spring, young 2-3kg first-catch bonito; in autumn, richly fatty 4-5kg returning bonito, carefully selected by season.

2

Raw bonito from Kochi

Most Kochi bonito is pole-and-line caught, leaving it beautiful and undamaged. We ship our select bonito direct from the port.

3

Straw from Shiga

We use straw hand-cut ourselves from vast contracted fields in Kohoku, northern Shiga. Dried straw burns hot with the finest smoky aroma.

4

The grilling

Over straw flames reaching 1000 degrees, we sear a crust about 5mm into the flesh, then finish with residual heat to lock in flavor.

5

The thickness of the cut

Cut over 1cm thick so the straw aroma fills your mouth, brimming with bonito flavor and a springy texture.

6

Our chosen salt

A fully sun-dried salt handmade by artisans from Kochi seawater. We select larger crystals for a mellow mineral taste.

Service

01

Robata & Warayaki

Bonito from Kochi and Omi beef from Shiga, grilled over straw right before you. Seasonal fish and vegetables draw out their fullest flavor over charcoal.

02

Sake & Local Brews

A generous selection of sake chosen from across Japan, including local Shiga brews — from dry to sweet. Our staff suggest the one glass that suits your dish, so you can enjoy sake tasting in Ishiyama. Sake-friendly bites such as seared Hakata mentaiko are ready to pair.

03

Seafood & Sashimi

Fresh fish shipped straight from the port, finished into sashimi by skilled hands. Enjoy seafood in landlocked Shiga in seasonal plates such as our five-kind sashimi platter.

04

Omi Beef & Omi Chicken

Shiga's specialty Omi beef, straw-grilled or miso-marinated, and overnight-dried Omi chicken. Enjoy Shiga's premium ingredients dynamically over charcoal in Ishiyama.

05

Banquets & Private Hire

Relaxed table and open-terrace seating, banquet courses with free-flow drinks, and full-venue bookings (50+) on request. Steps from Ishiyama Station — ideal for company parties and gatherings. Plenty of shareable plates, such as our fried chicken, round out the table.

How to enjoy Robata

Robata Story

01

One minute from either station, then to the hearth

About a minute on foot from the south exit of JR Ishiyama Station, and about a minute from Keihan Ishiyama Station. Once inside the 78 seat room, go and stand where the straw flames rise.

02

Tosa-Saga bonito, exactly as it comes

The bonito is shipped direct from Tosa-Saga port in Kochi. Begin at the smoke-wrapped surface, with nothing added, and confirm the sweetness of the fish itself.

03

Bring in condiments, rock salt and citrus

Change the flavor for the second half. Straw-grilled Omi beef from Shiga also finishes lighter with rock salt and a squeeze of citrus.

04

A cup on the open terrace

Counter, table and sofa seats, plus an open terrace. Cigarettes are allowed on the terrace only, and it suits a drink after a walk along the Seta River or the Seta no Karahashi bridge.

Producers

Tosa-Saga Port, KochiIkkatsu no Daiki

Saga is where the Kuroshio current first meets Japan, a town thriving on pole-and-line bonito fishing and one of Kochi's foremost fishing towns.

Tano, KochiTanoya Seihachi

A genuine sun-dried salt made using only the sun's heat, with painstaking care. Entirely handmade, it grows into crystals that melt in the mouth, the very finest sun-dried salt.

Straw-grilled bonito — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama

Pairing

Q1 / 3

Today's moodWhat are you in the mood for today?

Main dishWhat will be your main?

Sake preferenceWhich sake style do you like?

Your pairing

Crisp & CleanLight-dry junmai × white fish & shellfish sashimi

Crisp, dry junmai such as Shiga's Daijiro or Kochi's Akitora, to lift the delicate sweetness of white fish and shellfish sashimi. Refreshing from the first sip to the last.

Rich & BoldRich junmai ginjo × straw-grilled Omi beef

Full, savory junmai such as Shiga's Shichihonyari or Fukuoka's Wakanami — with depth to stand up to straw-grilled Omi beef and rich robata. Savory meets savory.

Aromatic & SmokyAromatic ginjo / warm kan × straw-grilled bonito

Aromatic sake such as Kirakucho Junmai Ginjo or Oze no Yukidoke Junmai Daiginjo, to echo the smoky char of straw-grilled bonito. Fragrance layered on fragrance.

Warm & BalancedGentle warm kan × seasonal robata & dashimaki

A gentle warm kan such as Shiga's Kazuhiro or Shimane's Juji Asahi, to match seasonal robata and dashi-rolled omelette. A calm, comforting balance for a long evening.

Course

11 dishes

Uomaru Standard Course

¥5,000 (tax incl.)

10 dishes

Omi Duck Charcoal-Grill

¥6,000 (tax incl.)

10 dishes

Omi Beef Charcoal-Grill

¥7,000 (tax incl.)

7 dishes

Omi Beef Luxury Sukiyaki

¥10,000 (tax incl.)

See all banquet courses

Signature

Straw-grilled bonito — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
01

Straw-grilled bonitoStraw-grilled bonito

Fresh bonito from Kochi, seared over a roaring straw flame right before you — smoky aroma, concentrated flavor.

Straw-grilled Omi beef — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
02

Straw-grilled Omi beefStraw-grilled Omi beef

Shiga's premium Omi beef, grilled over straw to draw out its aroma and natural richness.

Fresh sashimi platter — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
03

Fresh sashimi platterFresh sashimi platter

The day's freshest fish from the port, arranged with care by our skilled hands.

Overnight-dried atka mackerel — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
04

Overnight-dried atka mackerelOvernight-dried atka mackerel

Plump, overnight-dried atka mackerel grilled to order — a robata classic.

Robata-grilled thick fried tofu — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
05

Robata-grilled thick fried tofuRobata-grilled thick fried tofu

Thick fried tofu grilled over charcoal — crisp outside, tender within.

Seared Hakata mentaiko — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
06

Seared Hakata mentaikoSeared Hakata mentaiko

Hakata mentaiko lightly seared over the robata to bring out its aroma — a fine partner for sake.

8-hour braised pork belly — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
07

8-hour braised pork belly8-hour braised pork belly

Pork belly slowly braised for eight hours until meltingly tender.

Uomaru dashi-rolled omelette — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
08

Uomaru dashi-rolled omeletteUomaru dashi-rolled omelette

Rolled one by one by hand, brimming with dashi — a quiet signature.

Wasanbon crème brûlée — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
09

Wasanbon crème brûléeWasanbon crème brûlée

Elegant wasanbon sweetness under a crisp, bittersweet caramel to close the night.

Ishiyama

Ishiyama izakaya Near Ishiyama Station Keihan Ishiyama izakaya Otsu izakaya Awazu drinks Ishiyama seafood Banquets in Ishiyama Ishiyama private hire Near Ishiyama-dera Seta-no-Karahashi Terrace seating Ishiyama sake Robatayaki Ishiyama Free-flow drinks

See all FAQ

Scenes

Dates & anniversaries

A calm Japanese space and relaxed seating for a special evening. Pair fresh sashimi with local Shiga sake by Ishiyama Station.

Business dining

Calm seating near Ishiyama Station for relaxed business dining. Straw-grilled Omi beef and carefully selected sake leave a strong impression.

Banquets & groups

Nine banquet courses with 2 hours of free-flow drinks from ¥4,500 (tax incl.), plus full-venue bookings for 50 or more for company parties in Ishiyama.

After sightseeing

After a stroll around Ishiyama-dera Temple or the Seta River. Open daily from 17:00 until 24:00 (L.O. food 23:00, drinks 23:30).

Solo drinking

Lively counter seats where solo guests watch the cooking up close. A single plate and a glass of sake, at your own pace.

Family & sightseeing

Family-friendly with a variety of dishes, near Ishiyama Station and Lake Biwa — a perfect stop while touring the Otsu area.

Column

See all columns

Ishiyama Celebrations: The Ultimate Feast with Seafood and Wine

The Charm of Seafood and Wine: Transforming Your Ishiyama Celebration into a Special Experience

Celebrating a work achievement, reuniting with old friends, or marking a family anniversary—life is full of occasions for a celebration. When planning such a gathering for important people in Ishiyama, many of you likely wish for not just a delicious meal, but a truly memorable night. While sharing fresh seafood and conversation is wonderful in itself, adding the new perspective of wine pairing to elevate your Ishiyama celebration can turn a typical banquet into an unexpectedly moving experience.

When it comes to an Ishiyama large group banquet, choosing a restaurant that satisfies everyone can be a challenge. The quality of the food, the variety of drinks, the atmosphere, and the budget—where can you find a place that checks all these boxes and adds a touch of something special? For all of you facing this dilemma, we confidently introduce a new way to enjoy an Ishiyama celebration woven from the harmony of seafood and wine.

In this article, we will delve into concrete tips to ease your anxieties and exceed your expectations, from the planning stages to the day of your Ishiyama celebration, and explore the depth of wine pairing. Please read on and use this as a reference for your next event planning.

Are You Satisfied with Ordinary Celebrations?

When you hear Ishiyama izakaya, you might picture a lively atmosphere, a toast with standard beer or sake, and a table laden with sashimi and yakitori. While that is certainly enjoyable, do you ever feel that it's always the same or I wish it felt a bit more special? Especially for an Ishiyama celebration marking an important milestone or expressing gratitude, a conventional setup can feel a little lacking.

  1. Limited Drink Options

    In most izakayas, the focus is on sake, shochu, and beer, with a limited selection of wine. You might have found yourself wondering, What wine would go well with this dish? only to find few choices and end up sticking with your usual drink.

  2. Food and Drink Pairings Are Often an Afterthought

    When you have the chance to savor fresh Ishiyama seafood, you naturally want to choose a drink that best enhances its delicate flavors. However, drinks are often treated as a mere accompaniment, enjoyed separately from the food, and the opportunity to appreciate their synergy is often missed.

  3. Concerns About Accommodating Large Groups

    When planning an Ishiyama large group banquet, finding a space where everyone can be comfortable is a major challenge. Event organizers often worry about various aspects, such as the speed of food service, the quality of service, and securing seating that allows for private conversation. Furthermore, selecting dishes that cater to everyone's tastes is also difficult.

We aim to overcome these ordinary aspects and offer you a truly memorable Ishiyama celebration. In the next chapter, we will introduce specific ways to achieve this.

Three Secrets to Elevating Your Ishiyama Celebration: Seafood, Wine, and Private Spaces

The Ishiyama celebration we propose is not just a meal. It is a special time that stimulates the senses, sparks conversation, and remains in your heart. Here are the three secrets we cherish most to create that experience.

1. A Feast Starring Ishiyama Seafood: Savoring Freshness and Seasonality

The essence of our Ishiyama celebration lies, without a doubt, in our carefully selected Ishiyama seafood. Fresh fish delivered directly from Lake Biwa and nearby fishing ports arrives at your table in its prime condition. Seasonal seafood, at its peak in fat content and concentrated flavor, is prepared using methods that maximize the inherent power of the ingredients, going beyond mere freshness.

  • Assorted Sashimi that Highlights the Natural Flavors

    Our sashimi, expertly sliced by our chefs from the freshest fish of the day, is characterized by its melt-in-your-mouth texture, elegant sweetness, and the aroma of the sea that tickles the nose. The changing variety of fish with the seasons is another delight.

  • Aromatic Grilled Dishes that Whet the Appetite

    Techniques like straw-fire grilling and charcoal grilling lock in the umami of the seafood, bringing out its original flavor along with a fragrant aroma. From simple salt-grilling to exquisite dishes finished with a special sauce, you can enjoy the charm of seafood in various forms.

  • Richly Flavored Simmered and Steamed Dishes

    Slowly simmered fish or dishes steamed to preserve the ingredient's natural taste offer a gentle flavor that warms the body. These comforting dishes are especially popular during the colder seasons.

Each of these dishes becomes a star player in brightening your Ishiyama celebration.

2. An Unexpected Encounter: The Joy of Wine Pairing at Your Ishiyama Celebration

Seafood and wine? Some may find this surprising. However, seafood dishes and wine are actually excellent partners, capable of enhancing each other's charm. At our Ishiyama izakaya, we have specially selected wines that complement Japanese cuisine, offering our guests new discoveries.

  • Classic Pairings of White Wine and Seafood

    The most intuitive pairing is, of course, with white wine. Crisp, mineral-rich white wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc do not overpower the delicate flavors of sashimi or grilled fish; instead, they further enhance their umami. Much like a squeeze of lemon, they bring a clean, sharp finish to the fish's flavor.

  • Sparkling Wine Opens Up a New World

    Popular as a toasting drink, sparkling wine is actually a versatile match for all kinds of seafood. Its fine bubbles refresh the palate, creating a superb harmony even with fried or richly flavored dishes. The combination with fried oysters or tempura is surprisingly light and further stimulates the appetite.

  • Is Red Wine an Option Too?

    While the notion that red wine is for meat is common, lighter red wines with low tannins, such as Pinot Noir, can pair well with richer fish dishes like teriyaki tuna or straw-grilled bonito. The rich aroma adds depth to the dish, leading to a different kind of discovery.

Our staff is knowledgeable about both food and wine. We can suggest the perfect pairing to suit your preferences, so please don't hesitate to ask. Wine pairing can also be a great conversation starter for your Ishiyama celebration.

3. Accommodating Ishiyama Large Group Banquets in Comfortable Private Spaces

When looking for a pub in Awazu or an izakaya in Otsu for a large group, one of the most important factors is likely the space. We offer a variety of private rooms, both large and small, to provide the perfect setting for your Ishiyama celebration.

  • A Variety of Private Room Types to Match Your Group Size

    From private meals for small groups to spacious rooms perfect for an Ishiyama large group banquet, we have private rooms in various layouts. Enjoy your conversation without worrying about your surroundings in a space that enhances the celebratory atmosphere.

  • A Relaxing Atmosphere Where Conversation Flows

    We have paid close attention to lighting and interior design to create a calm, modern Japanese atmosphere. Forget the hustle and bustle of daily life and relax while enjoying delicious food and wine. It's also ideal for an Ishiyama celebration that doubles as an important business dinner or a precious family gathering.

  • Attentive Service Down to the Smallest Detail

    Even in our private rooms, our staff is always attentive to ensure you have a comfortable experience. We cater to your pace, from taking additional drink orders to timing the delivery of dishes, so event organizers can also relax and enjoy the banquet.

To talk to your heart's content with important people in a private space—that is our ideal for an Ishiyama large group banquet.

Practical Steps to Creating a Memorable Ishiyama Celebration

Now, let's introduce the concrete steps to planning a memorable Ishiyama celebration that makes the most of our restaurant's charms. Let's make it a wonderful banquet that satisfies both the organizer and all the participants.

Step 1: First, Tell Us Your Requirements

First, contact us by phone or online and let us know the following. This is the first step to a successful Ishiyama celebration.

  1. Number of Guests and Purpose

    Please tell us how many people will be attending and the purpose of the gathering, such as a company party, a farewell party for a friend, or a family celebration. Our suggestions for dishes, seating arrangements, and atmosphere will change depending on the purpose.

  2. Desired Date and Time

    As availability for private bookings and seating depends on other reservations, providing a few potential dates and times will make the process smoother.

  3. Budget Estimate

    Please let us know your budget per person. We will propose the most suitable course meals and drink plans to match your budget.

  4. Food/Drink Preferences, Allergies, etc.

    Especially for an Ishiyama large group banquet, it can be difficult to know everyone's preferences. However, if you can provide requests such as disliked ingredients, allergy information, would like to enjoy more wine, or want to include sake, we can provide more tailored service.

No detail is too small. It all starts with you telling us what kind of Ishiyama celebration you envision.

Step 2: We Propose Recommended Courses and Wine Pairings

Based on your requirements, we will make the following proposals:

  • A Course Meal Featuring Luxurious Seasonal Ishiyama Seafood

    We will propose a well-balanced course meal that generously uses the most delicious seafood of the season. From sashimi and grilled dishes to simmered items and a finishing dish, the menu will reflect the changing seasons. Of course, classic Ishiyama izakaya dishes are also available.

  • A Wine Pairing Plan to Match the Cuisine

    Our sommelier will suggest several select wines to pair with each dish. You can enjoy a story-like pairing designed to maximize the synergy with the wine throughout the entire course. We will explain it in a way that is easy for beginners to understand.

  • Customizable All-You-Can-Drink Plans

    We can also prepare all-you-can-drink plans that include not only beer, sake, and shochu but also a rich variety of wines. As an Otsu izakaya, we are confident in our drink menu.

  • Consultation on Private Room Layout and Seating

    We will suggest the best private room for your group size and can consult on seating arrangements if needed. We will ensure a spacious setting where everyone can relax and feel comfortable.

If you have any questions or additional requests at this stage, please do not hesitate to let us know.

Step 3: The Ultimate Ishiyama Celebration Experience on the Day

On the day of your reservation, we want the organizer to enjoy the Ishiyama celebration to the fullest along with the guests, without worrying about preparations.

  • Warm Hospitality and Smooth Seating

    Upon your arrival, our staff will greet you with a smile and guide you smoothly to your reserved private room. We can also assist with storing luggage and coats.

  • Optimal Timing for Food and Wine Service

    Each dish will be served at its most delicious state, paced according to your group's dining speed. Wine will also be served at the perfect time to ensure you enjoy the best pairing with your food.

  • Satisfying Drink Service, Also as a Pub in Awazu

    For those using an all-you-can-drink plan, we strive to serve your drinks promptly after you order. Please enjoy your favorite drinks to your heart's content.

  • Assistance with Surprise Presentations

    If you are planning a surprise, such as for a birthday or anniversary, please consult with us in advance. We will do our best to assist with arranging a cake, preparing a message plate, and more.

We are dedicated to helping make your Ishiyama celebration the best day possible.

Conclusion: Create a Memorable and Moving Ishiyama Celebration with Seafood and Wine

How was that? We have introduced tips for transforming your Ishiyama celebration from a simple meal into a special experience that stimulates the senses and is deeply memorable, from the three perspectives of seafood, wine pairing, and comfortable private spaces.

The encounter between the rich flavors of fresh Ishiyama seafood and the carefully selected wines that accompany them will surely enrich your conversations and bring smiles to your faces. Even for an Ishiyama large group banquet, our selection of private rooms tailored to your group size and our attentive service will reduce the organizer's burden and provide a time for all participants to relax completely. We are confident that the hospitality of our Ishiyama izakaya will also satisfy those searching for an izakaya in Otsu or a pub in Awazu.

When you plan your next Ishiyama celebration, please don't hesitate to consult with us. We will do our utmost to help make your important day one filled with delicious food, wonderful wine, and warm conversation. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you.

Voices

5種盛り合わせの焼きとりは味付濃くて美味しかったです! スタッフ全員も親切で親とゆっくり過ごせました。

Angel C Moody ★★★★★ 1 か月前

初めて友達に連れてきてもらいました。 店員さんオススメのももみはジューシーアツアツでめちゃくちゃ美味しいです! 他の焼き鳥も美味しくてまた来たいと思いました!

西上久美 ★★★★★ 3 か月前

焼き鳥とレバーの火入れ加減が好みです。 バスクチーズケーキもおすすめ。 今後も通いたい! たまに新人のかたへのシビアな指導がきこえるのが気になる。

なし ★★★★☆ 3 か月前

焼き鳥も美味しく、〆のラーメンも美味しかったです! バイトのコたちの接客も気持ちよくて、外観も入ったところも雰囲気とても良かったんですが 個室と頼んだ2階が、ほんとに民家の2階の座敷という感じで、、 雰囲気台無しでとても残念でした😢 もう少し2階も考えたほうがいいかな?と思いました〜

nami_08 ★★★★☆ 4 か月前

焼き鳥がとても美味しいお店でした。 塩胡椒がしっかり効いていて、素材の旨みが引き立ってお酒が進みます! 特にこころはぷりっぷりで、弾力のある食感が印象的でした。 店内の雰囲気も落ち着いていて、打ち上げやデートにもおすすめできるお店だと思います。 またぜひ伺いたいです。

つこけ ★★★★★ 7 か月前

Follow

Five-kind sashimi platter — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama Straw-grilled bonito — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama Uomaru dashi-rolled omelette — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama Straw-grilled Omi beef — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama Potato salad with salmon roe — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama Wasanbon crème brûlée — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama

Autumn seasonal robata and new local sake are now available.

Open daily from 17:00; last orders: food 23:00, drinks 23:30.

Store

Closed now
Name
Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama
Address
4-9 Awazu-cho, Station Plaza 1F, Otsu, Shiga 520-0832
Tel
077-531-2440
Hours
Daily 17:00–24:00 (L.O. food 23:00 / drinks 23:30)
Access
1 min walk from JR Ishiyama Station (South Exit)
Seats
78 seats / counter, table, sofa and terrace seating / full venue for 50+ / smoking separated (paper cigarettes on the terrace only)
Pay
Cash, cards, QR payments (PayPay). 5% service charge (waived on course orders)
Open in Google Maps
8-hour braised pork belly — Robata & Sake Uomaru Ishiyama

Get in touch

HoursDaily 17:00–24:00 (L.O. food 23:00 / drinks 23:30)

Banquet courses and full-venue bookings are easiest to arrange by phone — tell us your date, party size and budget and our staff will help.

Book a seat online (24h)

FAQ

What are your opening hours?
Open daily 17:00–24:00 (last orders: food 23:00, drinks 23:30). We do not serve lunch. Closed irregularly (no fixed closing day).
Can I make a reservation?
Yes. Especially on weekends and busy hours, we recommend booking in advance by phone or web.
What do you recommend?
Straw-grilled bonito from Kochi, straw-grilled Omi beef, and fresh sashimi from the port. Seasonal robatayaki is also popular.
Are there calm seats for a date or a business meal?
We do not have private rooms. We offer counter, table and open-terrace seating, and will arrange seats to suit your party size. Please let us know when booking.
How do I get there from Ishiyama Station?
About a 1-minute walk from JR Ishiyama Station (South Exit), at 4-9 Awazu-cho.
What kind of sake do you have?
A wide range of carefully selected sake from across Japan, including Shiga local brews to match your dishes.
What payment methods can I use?
Cash, major credit cards (VISA/Mastercard/JCB/AMEX/Diners) and QR code payments (PayPay). E-money is not accepted.
Is it comfortable for solo diners?
Yes, our lively counter seats are perfect for solo guests to enjoy the cooking right before them.
Can you host banquets or groups?
Yes. We offer banquet courses, and can arrange full-venue bookings for 50 or more guests. Please consult us.
Can I take out food?
We are sorry, but we do not offer takeout.

See all FAQ