Miyabi

In a residential neighbourhood in Oi, Shinagawa, 居酒屋 宮美’s menu stands out for its range of sake from Ehime. The selection includes 宮の舞 純米吟醸, named after the restaurant, 石鎚 純米吟醸 緑ラベル, noted for its crisp acidity, and 賀儀屋 無濾過純米 責任仕込酒, whose fragrant sweetness from sakurahime yeast and lingering finish are especially memorable. A sake tasting set is a good way to compare their distinct character, glass by glass.

A platter of seasonal sashimi makes a fitting accompaniment to these food-friendly drinks. For something warm, there is beef offal stew rich with savoury flavour; Sapporo draft beer or a house-made lemon sour offers a refreshing alternative, making it easy to order according to the mood of the evening. The shochu selection also includes Ehime’s 宮の舞 in barley and sweet potato varieties, served with water, on the rocks or with soda.

Inside, a calm setting with counter and table seating works for a solo drink as well as a lively catch-up with a group. Reservations are accepted, making it a dependable choice for an evening centred on good drinks and small plates from around dusk.