Sawayaka

For a hot-pot dinner, Sawayaka offers chicken mizutaki, chanko and a spicy stamina hot pot. The menu describes the mizutaki as served with refreshing ponzu, the spicy pot as generously filled with meat, and the chanko as packed with a variety of ingredients, making it easy to choose by flavour and style. Homemade, fluffy sardine dumplings are another option for the pot.

Beyond hot pots, the menu includes dishes such as large skewers of chicken thigh, pork tongue and pork cheek, salt-grilled prawns, and tuna with miso-vinegar dressing. There is plenty to pair with beer or other alcoholic drinks over a relaxed evening, as well as options for a more substantial meal. Rice balls come with salmon, pickled plum, kelp or bonito flakes; ochazuke is available with salmon, pickled plum or nori, for a lighter finish.

Sawayaka is described as an izakaya serving home-style cooking, and some diners mention gathering there in Komaba. Table service is available, and reservations are accepted. It may suit an evening meal with friends over hot pots and small plates.