Hikari

Set along a quiet alleyway not far from Hon-Komagome Station, Hikari is an unpretentious counter-style izakaya tailored for a leisurely drink and casual drinking snacks. The room has an easy, relaxed atmosphere, providing just the right backdrop for drinking alone or in pairs.

The drinks list highlights regional sake from across Japan, including Machida Shuzo Jikagumi from Gunma, Iwanoi Nakagumi Gohyakumangoku from Chiba, and Kinryo Aki Sake Nama Genshu from Kagawa. Shochu choices are just as varied, with distinct labels such as Rokasezu, Sekitoba Murasaki, and the citrus-scented Flamingo Orange on hand; trading thoughts with the master over the counter is one of the best ways to pick a pour.

To accompany the drinks, the kitchen turns out an array of reasonably priced small plates. Lighter nibbles like crunchy jellyfish and cucumber salad or toasted ray fin (eihire) sit alongside piping-hot boiled gyoza and dashi omelettes stuffed with spicy mentaiko. Those in search of richer fish flavors can look to Saikyo-miso grilled black cod (gindara) or salmon, both broiled to a savory fragrance that flatters dry sake.

Open until late into the night, the shop works well for delayed dinners and final stops. To round off the evening, diners can choose from comforting bowls of kakitama udon in gentle egg-drop dashi broth or a hearty bowl of spiced tantanmen.