A Cozy Izakaya Bar Blending Tradition and Modern Vibes
Published: February 20, 2025
※Prices are subject to change from those in effect at the time of the interview. Please contact the store directly for the latest information.
“Izakaya-BAR Tasogare,” which opened in April 2025, is located in a place filled with memories where the owner’s grandparents once ran a Chinese restaurant.
The menu offers a wide variety of dishes that pair perfectly with drinks.
I noticed that they serve basashi from Kumamoto Prefecture, which is thinly sliced raw horse meat, a regional specialty known for its delicate flavor and smooth texture. The prices are very reasonable, and there is no table charge, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed evening without worrying about extra costs.
“Tasogare” is also recognized as a “draft beer master establishment” by a major beer manufacturer. Affordable drink prices, such as whisky highballs (whisky and soda) for 420 yen and sour cocktails for 450 yen, are another reason for its popularity.
The fact that most of the servers are part-time students from the nearby university adds a lively and dynamic vibe to the place. Even though the menus are in Japanese, the staff are more than happy to help if you don’t read Japanese.
The interior features both first- and second-floor seating, offering a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
Since the establishment opened recently, everything is brand new and pristine. The leather seats were very comfortable, to the point where I briefly considered canceling my plans just to stay there.
Komochi Ika (Squid with Fish Egg)
I had never tried Komochi Ika before, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The squid was tender, while the tiny fish eggs added a delicate pop and a subtle brininess that lingered on the palate, creating a well-balanced and memorable bite.
Tasogare-style deep-fried dish
The Tasogare-style deep-fried dish had a perfectly crisp and golden coating that gave a satisfying crunch, while the inside stayed juicy and flavorful. It struck a great balance between richness and lightness, making it easy to enjoy until the very last bite.
Ramen with shijimi clam flavor
This dish had a light, briny aroma that reminded me of the sea. The broth was clear but flavorful, and the natural sweetness of the shijimi clams went perfectly with the chewy noodles. The tsumire (soft fish ball) added a nice bounce and extra umami that brought everything together.
The owner, Mr. Sato
In conclusion, “Tasogare” carries a true sense of continuity, as Mr. Sato chose to reopen an izakaya on the very same spot where his grandparents once ran their restaurant. This connection to the past adds a special warmth to the place, making it not just a bar, but a piece of living history. It’s the kind of spot where you naturally want to linger and enjoy the evening.
≪English Reporter Journalist Profile≫
・Name：Grégoire Renais
・Nationality：France
・Hobbies：Hiking, Photography (Landscapes, Japanese cultural events)
※Information is based on July 2025. Prices, operating hours, and other details may change. Please verify with the store directly.
※All amounts mentioned in the article are inclusive of taxes.
