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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.)

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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

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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.

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A Tale of the Seasons, Straight from the Fishing Port: Savoring True Luxury at Our Ishiyama Seafood

A Tale of the Seasons, Straight from the Fishing Port: Savoring True Luxury at Our Ishiyama Seafood Izakaya

To everyone searching for an izakaya in Ishiyama: Whether it's for an important wrap-up party, a memorable date, or a lively banquet with a large group, we are dedicated to providing unforgettable cuisine and a wonderful experience. With this passion in our hearts, we work with the freshest gifts from the sea every single day.

We are particularly proud to serve seafood that is direct from the fishing port. In this article, we'd like to delve into the secret of what this phrase truly means and the joy it brings to your table. Here in Ishiyama, we invite you to experience a freshness and flavor so authentic, you'll feel as if you're right by the ocean.

Why is 'Direct from the Fishing Port' So Important? Customer Expectations and Seafood Challenges

It's only natural to want to eat delicious seafood. But have you ever found it surprisingly difficult to find truly fresh options at a typical izakaya?

Many customers face challenges such as:

  • Uncertainty about when the fish was sourced and if it's truly fresh
  • A lack of seasonality, with the same types of fish always on the menu
  • Missing out on the true, authentic flavors of seasonal seafood
  • Seafood dishes that don't live up to expectations or deliver a 'wow' factor
  • Difficulty finding a decisive reason to choose one izakaya over another

Choosing from the many izakayas in Ishiyama to find a place that offers truly satisfying seafood can be a challenge. Allow us to explain in detail how our commitment to freshness and seasonality allows us to meet your expectations and solve these common problems.

Our 'Direct from the Fishing Port' Promise: A Unique Solution for Savoring Peak Freshness and Seasonality

Our dedication to sourcing 'direct from the fishing port' stems from a single desire: to provide you with the ultimate seafood experience. Let us show you exactly how this commitment solves the challenges mentioned earlier and brings joy to your dining.

A Daily Gift from the Fishermen: Our Unwavering Commitment to Freshness

'Direct from the fishing port' is a system that brings seafood, landed that very morning, straight from the port to our kitchen. By drastically shortening the typical distribution chain, we minimize any loss of freshness, allowing us to serve you seafood in its absolute prime.

Every morning, we work in close partnership with the fishermen to select the very best of their daily catch. This is why we can offer an unparalleled liveliness and a firm, springy texture that you won't find elsewhere. It's one of the main reasons so many customers choose us when they want to enjoy seafood in Ishiyama.

The Bounties of the Four Seasons: A Menu Crafted from Seasonal Port-Direct Catches

The seas of Japan offer a rich tapestry of flavors that change with the seasons, and so does the seafood. Our 'direct from the port' approach allows us to feature the most delicious oceanic treasures of the current season on our menu. Seasonal seafood is at its peak—rich in flavor, firm in texture, and packed with exceptional umami.

For example, spring tempts the palate with the full-bodied flavor of Sakura-dai (cherry blossom sea bream) and the refreshing aroma of the first bonito. Summer brings the creamy delight of rock oysters and exceptional Aji (horse mackerel) tataki. Autumn features fatty Modori-gatsuo (returning bonito) and Sanma (pacific saury), while winter offers Kan-buri (winter yellowtail) and crab. We prepare a host of delicacies you can only encounter in their specific season, meaning our guests can discover new seasonal flavors with every visit.

This seasonal rotation offers a deliciousness that is truly a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Whether for a date, a meal with someone special, or just a casual visit to your local izakaya in Ishiyama, we promise new discoveries and delights with every visit.

Port-Direct Seafood Dishes to Enhance Any Occasion

Our 'direct from the port' fresh fish truly shines in any setting. We offer seafood creations perfectly suited for a variety of occasions.

  • For a Date Night in Ishiyama: A delicately arranged sashimi platter will add a touch of elegance to your conversation. Our creative dishes, made with seasonal seafood, are perfect for crafting a special evening. Private rooms are also available for you to dine and converse at your leisure.
  • For Parties and Large Banquets in Ishiyama: A magnificent funamori (sashimi boat) or a large platter piled high with seafood is sure to liven up any large gathering. When everyone gathers around fresh bounty from the sea, smiles and a sense of togetherness naturally follow. We're confident that event organizers will be delighted.
  • For Casual Dining in Ishiyama: Feel free to stop by for a drink and a bite of the 'Chef's Recommended Fresh Fish' of the day. From classic seafood skewers to daily specials like simmered or grilled fish, our menu has an appeal that will keep you coming back without ever getting bored.

Practical Steps to Fully Enjoy Our Port-Direct Seafood

Since you've chosen to dine with us, we want you to enjoy our 'direct from the port' seafood to the absolute fullest. Here are a few tips to help you enrich your experience at our izakaya.

Step 1: First, Check the 'Today's Recommendations' Menu

When you arrive, the first thing to look at is our 'Today's Recommendations' menu. This is where you'll find the best of the day's port-direct catch, featuring seasonal seafood in peak condition. The selection changes daily based on what the fishermen bring in, making every visit a unique encounter.

If you're not sure what to choose, just ask our staff, What's your top recommendation for today? We'll be happy to guide you to the day's finest selection.

Step 2: Savor Seasonal Seafood Prepared in Different Ways

The beauty of our port-direct fish can be drawn out through various cooking methods beyond just sashimi, including grilling, simmering, frying, steaming, and searing. For example, you can savor the pure, unadorned flavor of a fish as sashimi, and then enjoy the same type of fish salt-grilled to appreciate its aromatic qualities. Trying different preparations is a fantastic way to discover the deeper complexities of each fish.

Our chefs are experts at using the best cooking methods to maximize the unique characteristics of each type of seafood. We encourage you to try different preparations according to your preference—you're bound to make a new and delicious discovery.

Step 3: Enhance Your Experience with an Advance Reservation

We recommend making a reservation in advance, especially if you're planning a party or a large banquet in Ishiyama, or if you'd like a private room for a special anniversary date. During peak seasons, popular tables and limited-time courses can get booked up quickly.

When you book, feel free to let us know about your preferred seafood or dishes, and we will do our best to accommodate your requests. We can also suggest the perfect plan tailored to your group size and budget, so please don't hesitate to ask.

The benefits of sharing your preferences when you book:

  1. Seamless Seating: Avoid waiting for a table, especially during peak hours.
  2. Special Requests: You can inform us in advance about allergies, dietary restrictions, or requests for celebration messages.
  3. Tailored Course Suggestions: We can propose the best course to suit the size and budget of your party or banquet.
  4. Guaranteed Private Room: Ensure you have a private room for an important date or business dinner.

Conclusion: A Special Ishiyama Dining Experience, Crafted for You and Delivered 'Direct from the Port'

Focusing on the concept of 'direct from the fishing port,' we've shared the value we strive to offer and how you can best enjoy your experience with us.

To fulfill your simple desire to enjoy fresh, delicious seafood to your heart's content, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to sourcing directly from the fishing port. It is our greatest wish that here in Ishiyama, you can taste the changing of the seasons through our cuisine and enrich the time you spend with your loved ones.

As an 'Ishiyama izakaya,' we strive every day to remain a beloved part of the local community and to be a place that even visitors from afar will want to return to again and again.

For your next party, special date, or lively banquet in Ishiyama—and even for those casual, everyday moments—we invite you to come and savor our 'direct from the port' seafood dishes. 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

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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)
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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.

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