野毛での入学祝いは肴と酒の旨い人気店で！ : Sakana to Sake Hanatare Noge Honten

My wife fully recovered with a warm drink in the cozy lounge.
As our reservation time was just five minutes away, we hurriedly took a taxi towards Noge.
As we made our way towards the beautifully blossomed weeping cherry trees at the Miyakobashi bridge, we found the restaurant for today's celebration.

Sakana to Sake Hanatare, Noge Main Branch.
I had visited this place once two years ago, but we had to leave unexpectedly even though we were already seated, making this effectively my first visit.
For this visit, I utilized the Tabelog reservation system for the first time to secure a table.
Our son, who has become quite picky with his food since school started, mentioned that a full French course would be a bit too much for him, so we decided to choose a place where he could select from a variety of favorites.

We were seated at a four-person table behind the counter, with three places set for us.
The menu featured a rich assortment of appetizers, many of which seemed to be his favorites.
Since choosing might take some time, we decided to order drinks first while we made our selections.

I ordered a glass of "Kobore Sparkling (Rosé)" for JPY 620 (tax excluded) and a glass of "Kobore Sparkling (White)" for JPY 590 (tax excluded).
To my delight, they generously poured both bottles right in front of us until they overflowed—what a treat!

I also ordered a glass of "Oolong Tea" for JPY 350 (tax excluded).

Today marks the beginning of his college life. I hope he embraces his studies and challenges himself to have fulfilling days ahead.
So, here’s to us—Cheers!

During this time, they served us an appetizer that was surprisingly good value for the price.
We had "Appetizer (Agedashi Tofu)" for JPY 300 (tax excluded), topped with boiled shirasu and bonito flakes. The presentation was lovely, and the flavor was well-seasoned with broth, which made it quite satisfying.

We started ordering dishes based on the main guest, our son’s preferences.

I ordered "Minke Whale Sashimi" for JPY 980 (tax excluded), served with fresh ginger.
The tender, non-fishy flavor of the whale was unique, evoking a deep sense of nostalgia tied to Japanese DNA.

Next was "Crab Miso" for JPY 580 (tax excluded).
The generous serving on a wooden spatula was packed with flavor—its richness complemented Japanese sake perfectly.
Thinking of sipping sake, I quickly thought of my next choice.

I ordered "Kyoto Green Onion with Dipping Sauce" for JPY 390 (tax excluded), featuring perfectly boiled green onions generously dressed in vinegared miso.
The crisp texture and sweetness of the onions paired well with the flavorful miso sauce.

I also chose "Fishmonger’s Potato Salad" for JPY 490 (tax excluded), combining fresh seafood and shuto, creating a dish that pairs excellently with drinks.

Next up was "Grilled Fava Beans" for JPY 600 (tax excluded), savory and full of flavor, having been grilled whole.
It was richer in taste than the boiled version, and I couldn't forget it—I even tried to replicate it at home over the weekend.

I ordered "Local Egg Omelet" for JPY 520 (tax excluded), a thick omelet that was hot, fluffy, and delicately sweetened with ample broth flavor.

Next was "Seasonal Fish Assortment (11 pieces, each 3 slices)" for JPY 2,400 (tax excluded).
This sashimi platter, suitable for three people, featured a standard offering of 2 slices per item turned into 3 slices.
As seen in the photo, it was impressively decorated with 12 pieces, including medium fatty tuna, offered complimentary by the restaurant for the celebration.
I genuinely appreciate their thoughtfulness, and the freshness of the assortment was incredibly satisfying.

I also ordered the "Local Vegetable Platter (Large)" for JPY 850 (tax excluded), filled generously with local Miura vegetables.
You can enjoy these with miso or mayonnaise as per your preference, showcasing the sweetness and freshness of the produce.

I ordered "Isojiman (180 cc)" for JPY 1,000 (tax excluded), a brand with many fond memories for our family. Whenever I see it, I can't resist ordering.

I also ordered "Nanbu Bijin (240 cc)" for JPY 1,500 (tax excluded).
Seeing sake from Tohoku always tempts me to order it.
Both choices paired excellently with dishes like crab miso and Kyoto green onion, reaffirming how well seafood and Japanese sake go together.

I ordered another glass of "Oolong Tea" for JPY 350 (tax excluded).

For something unusual that caught my son’s attention, I got "Unzen Ham" for JPY 480 (tax excluded), made from pork raised at the foot of Unzen Mountain, resembling a sausage flavor.

Lastly, I ordered "Grilled Natural Yellowtail" for JPY 880 (tax excluded), beautifully prepared with a delicate amount of salt, showcasing the ingredient's natural flavor.

All the dishes were delicious, making this izakaya a high-level establishment.
The variety and quality of their alcohol selection were impressive, ensuring that even the most seasoned drinkers wouldn't get bored.
Service was excellent with attentive staff members who worked efficiently while maintaining cheerful smiles.
They were quick to clear plates and attentive to the dining area.

What’s most appreciated is that the dining area is non-smoking.
I could enjoy the restaurant’s proud culinary creations and drinks without being bothered by unpleasant smoke.
I was pleased to learn that the private dining area at the back is allowed for smoking, showing some thoughtful consideration.
However, it was unfortunate that on this day, someone who didn’t know the non-smoking policy lit a cigarette.
The staff likely addressed it immediately, as afterward, there was no offending odor, allowing us to enjoy our modest celebration in comfort.

Though our son has become quite picky about food, he appeared quite satisfied enjoying his favorite dishes.
Well, he might just be selective due to his tension from starting a new life, but he will surely eat heartily again like before.

Thanks to the restaurant's meticulous attention to detail and service, we had a delightful and delicious time.