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Welcome. ---------- August 2016 ----------The main store of the eel shop adjacent to Kadokoya in the Keiwa Building 3F is a long-established seafood izakaya nearby. The traditional Japanese atmosphere with wooden chairs and clear air is enhanced by the presence of young waitstaff. The image of being greeted directly by the owner is reminiscent of a horse racing expert. The calm and gentle conversations leave a good impression. The right side features a counter where you can watch the chef in action, while the left side offers private rooms for a relaxed adult space. The name "魚群" is read as "Namura," a fact I was not aware of before. They are particular about their water, with a purity of 99%. The selection of sake is abundant, with many options not found on the menu. It seems that tonight's meal will be a course menu, another fact I was unaware of. Starting off with a Highball, the appetizer platter is colorful and appetizing, featuring dishes like "salmon, simmered salmon, salmon spring roll, striped shrimp." The "salmon spring roll" is a delightful combination of crunchy cucumber with silky salmon and crab stick, without any sharp saltiness. The "sliced salmon" showcases the tenderness of the red flesh. The assorted sashimi includes a plump "botan shrimp" and a richly flavored "raw bluefin tuna." The "flounder" has a pleasantly firm texture, while the "salmon roe" boasts a strong membrane. The "scallop" offers a crispy bite, and the "surf clam" is also firm and flavorful. The freshness of the fish is crucial. The Mie Prefecture dry junmai sake "Hanzo" is a delightful discovery. The Tochigi "Senkin" wine has a crisp, dry taste. The simmered dishes include a large, visually appealing "saury" and tender, bone-in "mackerel." The poached chicken is moist and flavorful, complemented by a sesame dressing with a spicy kick. The jellyfish side dish has a sharp and spicy flavor that pairs well with the chicken. The abalone steak has a satisfying crunch and pairs nicely with the onion butter sauce. The shime soba, made from freshly ground ten-portion buckwheat flour from Niigata, has a smooth texture. The accompanying mountain vegetables are not the typical boiled variety. The meal concludes with sushi, featuring "tuna, flounder, sea urchin." The thick slices of fish and rice are well-balanced, with the fish being moist and flavorful, and the rice having a strong yet delicate texture. The vinegar seasoning is not overpowering. The side dish of "shellfish cuisine" showcases a dedication to quality shellfish, with dishes like "steamed clams, oysters." The famous "sea urchin hot pot" at Namura is something I would like to share with everyone. At first, the slightly tense atmosphere with the waitstaff is resolved over time. Some things cannot be perfect from the start, as the Preo will show. The staff sees you off to the elevator on your way out. Thank you for the wonderful meal.