Narukiyo

Narukyo is an izakaya that gets everything right: from the warm service to the incredible food, all in a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. They treat foreign guests just as well as locals, and it’s worth asking the staff for recommendations. The counter is messy and reminds you of a true Japanese drinking counter, while the tables on the tatami room are great for groups and more intimate occasions. The menu, hand written on what looks like ancient paper, adds a charming touch, and even the restroom is full of fun surprises. While it’s definitely on the pricier side, the experience makes it well worth it.

Chanced upon this spot and it immediately went to one of my top fav food spots globally. Chaotic vibes if you do not have a reservation - be prepared to stand and eat. The menu is Japanese only so basically went with all the recommendations by the chef. The only item that was subpar was the grilled chicken - not bad just not special. The vegetables and fruits are a MUST. The items are seasonal so not much point in me sharing the items here but do give this place a try

All time favourite Izakaya! I wish that I could go back. Highlights were the horse liver sashimi, ridiculous tomato, whatever Narukiyo sticks on the grill and wait for the end of the evening for a bowl of whatever is in the big pot that day - devine.

The food was amazing but overall atmopshere makes it all. Small and packed. Need to look down the stairs from the street for entrance. Reservations are welcomed and recomended. I manged to be sitted despite not having it but many people returned. The staff is friendly even tough English speaking is not their plus. Menu is only in Japanese but Google Translate will help if you need to be mindful of allergies. Other than that, you can leave it to them. If not being at the bar but sitting round the table, you will need to take the shoes off.

The asparragus was just out of this world. The sashimi was a 10 and the wagyu was like butter. A bit pricy but totally worth it

everyhing is perfect. every person is so kind. If you search a good izakaya, go narukiyo right now. thank you sho.

Very fun izakaya with decent food and a great vibe. Most of the customers are not local but they don’t speak English and the menu is an ancient scroll in Japanese. Reservations strongly recommended

Love this place. First visited in 2015, then 4 more times between then and 2024. Exceptional Japanese soul food. The basashi (horse liver sashimi with green chilli, if in season), the tempura plate, the wagyu sirloin and the sashimi are my go-to’s. The blanched and chilled asparagus & tomatoes with kewpie and red miso is also an excellent way to start, particularly on a steamy 38 degree day. Fresh, umami, cold and crunchy. The quality of the protein & vegetables is exceptional, and if you’re watching the chef cook and plate (eg if you’re sat at the bar) you can see the love and attention that goes into each dish Note: it’s not ‘cheap’ but you can expect to pay roughly ¥10,000 per head, which has it at the higher end of the izakaya price scale, but far cheaper than the European-style options which many still consider a ‘superior’ cuisine. ¥10,000 per person (including drinks) still, in my opinion, represents exceptional value, considering the tiny space (there are roughly four customers per staff member, and only one chef). A meal at this level in Paris or Copenhagen would be twice the price (and in New York or LA, four times the price). If anythjng, considering the work and craft that goes into the food, most izakaya’s are generally underpriced and undervalued Another note: Definitely not kid-friendly (unless your kids are cool)