Samurai

Start with a drink and salted squid seared at your table; finish the meal with nasi goreng. At Samurai, the pleasure lies in working your way through izakaya-style dishes and rice plates that are a little less expected.

Seared salted squid is one dish a diner singled out as a good match for sake. Sake is also listed on the menu, including the dry Kikusuи and Kenbishi, described as enjoyable either chilled or warmed. Another option is Chokotto Mori, a small assortment of three snacks to accompany drinks—well suited to an evening of nibbling a little at a time.

The skewers include pork with tomato and pork with okra, as well as house-made tsukune. The menu says the chicken meatballs contain cartilage and can be served in either of two ways: with sauce and egg yolk, or with salt and fresh green pepper. They make an appealing centrepiece for a selection of lighter snacks.

Nasi goreng is another dish to look out for. One diner described mixing it with the fried egg on top, while another chose it as a final rice dish. The menu also lists fried chicken and corn butter, giving diners options whether they want to graze over drinks or make a meal of a rice dish.

Some diners mention enjoying the counter alone, while others refer to seats around an irori hearth and seating for larger groups. Dine-in service is available, and reservations are accepted. Open every day from 18:00 until 0:00 the following day, Samurai can suit a drink after work or an evening meal.