Yonemasa

Located in Terado-cho in the city of Muko, Kyoto Prefecture, Yonemasa is a neighborhood izakaya known for seasonal dishes and seafood prepared with meticulous care. At the heart of the chalkboard specials and regular menu are fresh sashimi selections sliced according to the day’s market haul. Starting with the chef’s choice sashimi assortment, the lineup includes yellowtail sashimi, surf clam sashimi, and horse sashimi—ideal plates to kick off an evening of drinks.

Alongside raw fish, warm simmered and deep-fried dishes are just as enticing. Richly flavored staples like the miso-simmered beef tendon and oysters, both served doteyaki style, pair naturally with sake ordered by the single go serving. Options like crisp tempura of kumoko (tender cod milt) and piping-hot assorted oden in colder months offer comforting choices that invite relaxed grazing.

The grilled menu features unpretentious tavern favorites, including piping-hot pork and kimchi served straight from the griddle, curry-flavored stir-fried pork and bean sprouts, as well as easy-to-share dishes like nagaimo yam steak and tofu steak. A variety of small bites, from seared stingray fin and spicy cod roe stuffed into chikuwa fish cake to salted squid entrails (ika no shiokara), makes it easy to order at your own pace as the night unfolds.

Fitted with both counter seating and tables, the dining room comfortably accommodates solo drinkers dropping in for an evening nightcap or small groups gathering for dinner. With a glass of beer, wine, or sake in hand, guests can settle in and enjoy seasonal seafood and homestyle pub fare cooked up by the genial owner.