Tachibana

Drawn in by the aroma of binchotan charcoal wafting from the grill, guests stepping through the noren curtain find an unpretentious, welcoming tavern. At Tachibana in Kawaguchi 3-chome, charcoal-grilled skewers take center stage. An easy start is the Torikushi Moriawase, a chef's selection of 5 salt-grilled chicken skewers served at a modest price that pairs naturally with a cold beer. Single skewers such as chicken thigh, tsukune meatballs, seseri neck meat, wings, and gizzards can also be ordered individually from one skewer onward.

Just as celebrated as the skewers is the Curry Baguette, featuring slow-simmered Japanese-style curry scooped up on crisp slices of garlic toast. Conceived as a drinking snack, the savory curry pairs addictively with the aromatic crunch of the bread. Other popular plates include crisp gyoza-wrapper pizza, sake-lees-marinated redfish, and grilled atka mackerel, offering a well-rounded mix of small bites and seafood.

Seating includes a lively counter facing the grill alongside tatami-matted zashiki tables for stretching out. The setting works comfortably whether dropping by alone after work or gathering with friends over shared plates. Tachibana is open Monday through Saturday from 17:00 to 22:00, and is closed on Sundays. PayPay is accepted.